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My dog has kennel cough. Can I give him Robitussin or home remedies?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 6 years and 7 months old | 90 lbs

I think my dog has kennel cough. I have no idea where he could have gotten it from. He sounds awful. I tried to call two different vets today and they didn’t seem interested in treating him. Is there anything I can give him? I read I could give him Robitussin DM? Is that true? He is a lab mix 6 years old. 90ish pounds.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on October 25th, 2019

I can't recommend giving Jude Robitussin because I can't see him in person to say it's safe. Any dog with kennel cough should be isolated for at least two weeks, possibly longer depending on the severity of the infection. Keep your dog in a well-humidified area, and use a harness instead of a collar to minimize coughing. Rest your dog for at least seven days to minimize irritation of the airways caused by excessive coughing. You can bring your dog into the bathroom with you while you have a shower, as the steam may help with the respiratory irritation. See if you can find a vet to see him. I hope this helps.

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