Kennel Cough in Dogs: Symptoms and What to Expect

Kennel cough, more formally known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory illness that spreads easily anywhere dogs congregate — boarding facilities, dog parks, daycare, grooming salons, and training classes. It's caused by several possible viruses and bacteria, sometimes in combination, which is part of why it's referred to as a syndrome rather than a single specific disease.

The hallmark symptom is a harsh, dry, honking cough, often described as sounding like something is stuck in the dog's throat — many owners' first instinct is to check their dog's mouth for an object because the sound is so distinctive. The cough is frequently triggered or worsened by gentle pressure on the trachea (like a collar tug) or excitement. Most dogs with kennel cough otherwise act relatively normal — eating, playing, and maintaining energy — which is a reassuring sign, since it points toward an isolated respiratory irritation rather than a more systemic illness.

In most healthy adult dogs, kennel cough resolves on its own within 1-3 weeks with supportive care, similar to a human cold. Puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with underlying health conditions are more likely to need additional treatment or closer monitoring, given a higher risk of the infection progressing to pneumonia.

What to do: If your dog develops the characteristic honking cough after being around other dogs, and is otherwise eating and acting normal, contact a vet to confirm the diagnosis and discuss supportive care — this usually doesn't require emergency treatment but does benefit from confirmation and monitoring guidance. Keep an affected dog away from other dogs during recovery given how contagious it is. Any signs of lethargy, loss of appetite, or labored breathing alongside the cough warrant faster attention, since this can indicate progression to something more serious.

For puppies specifically, kennel cough carries somewhat more risk and is worth understanding separately.