My dog has a honking cough. Could it be kennel cough? What to do?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

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  Answered By Karly Macon, DVM, MS, CVA Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

  Veterinarian

  Published on October 10th, 2017

  A young dog with a honking/gagging kind of cough sure sounds like kennel cough, or infectious tracheitis/tracheobronchitis. This is really common in young dogs who socialize with other dogs, like at puppy class, or at a vet clinic, grooming facility, etc. It is usually self-limiting and not dangerous, but is very infectious. Keep Mel away from other dogs for 10-14 days, and if the cough is very frequent, or if she seems run down and not feeling well, she needs to see the vet for some antibiotics and anti-tussive (cough medicine) like codeine. Hope that helps!

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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  Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

  Veterinarian

  Published on May 21st, 2018

  This is probably caused by a common disease , a viral/bacterial infection called Kennel cough, this disease usually resolves without treatment within a couple weeks but if the cough is too severe it is recommended to go to the vet in order to get cough medicine and antibiotics.

  

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  Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

  Veterinarian

  Published on January 1st, 2020

  A sudden onset of a severe cough is typically seen, which may be productive or non-productive. A productive cough sounds wet and produces mucus, while a non-productive cough is dry and does not produce any mucus. This cough can sound like a honk. Gagging, retching, sneezing, and nasal discharge may also be seen. When a dog with kennel cough has their throat palpated, the dog can be induced to cough. The cough can also be exacerbated by exercise, excitement, or pressure on the neck from their collar.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful