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My puppy has kennel cough with discharge. What treatment is best?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Male | unneutered | 6 months and 22 days old | 62 lbs

Our dog Alfie was boarded last weekend and now has kennel cough. He doesn't cough much but can hear the mucus in his throat. He has had a lot of yellow discharge mostly after sleep in his eyes which doc told us to give Benadryl. Also, yellow/green mucus is now draining from his nose. He has been eating but is tired. He is a 62 lb. otherwise very healthy 6 mo. old golden retriever. Not sure about treatment? It is Sunday tomorrow.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 12th, 2017

Alfie is displaying classic signs of an upper respiratory infection (aka kennel cough). These can often be due to a viral infection, so that is likely why the vet has prescribed the benadryl; they are treating conservatively. The benadryl will help make Alfie feel better, but will also make him tired. However, it appears the infection has gotten worse and I would be prescribing antibiotics at this time. They do tend to feel crummy (much like we do when we have a cold), but rest assured, this is not an emergency and no need to rush off to the emergency vet. You can see your vet at a regular appointment time in the next day or two and they will advise on additional medication. I hope that helps and Alfie feels better soon.

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    Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Poor Alfie. Since he is young, lethargic, and having so much discharge from his nose and eyes I would recommend to see your vet for an exam and probably antibiotics. Puppies are more prone to pneumonia from kennel cough than adults so I recommend treatment to hopefully prevent it from progressing to pneumonia. If he is still eating then it could probably wait until Monday but keep a close eye on him. I hope this helps.

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