How Long Does Kennel Cough Last in Dogs?

You might be worried when your dog starts coughing very hard and hacking. It's the most obvious sign of kennel cough and is often called a "honking" sound. Most likely, your first thoughts as a pet owner are "What is it?" and "How long does kennel cough last?" This guide will explain the signs, causes, and usual length of this common dog illness, giving you peace of mind and useful tips.

Important Signs of Kennel Cough

The "honking" cough is the most obvious sign, but it's not the only one to look out for. When your dog coughs, it may sound like something is stuck in its throat because the cough is so dry and strong. The coughing fits can be caused by being excited, having a collar put pressure on the trachea, or even just drinking water.

Other symptoms that may accompany the cough include:

● Retching or gagging, sometimes producing a white, foamy phlegm

● Sneezing

● A runny nose

● Watery eyes

● Most dogs keep their appetite and stay active in less severe situations. Severe infections, on the other hand, can cause a lack of energy, appetite, and mild temperature.

You should keep an eye on how your dog acts in general. There's hope if they are still having fun and eating well. If they are very tired or won't eat, it could mean that the problem is more serious.

What are the Causes of Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough, which is also called canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a general term for an illness in a dog's lungs. It's helpful to know what causes the signs once you know what they are. Viruses and bacteria work together to make it happen, not just one entity. Like the common cold in people, it can spread quickly from dog to dog and is caused by a variety of microorganisms.

These are the most common offenders:

● Bordetella Bronchiseptica: Most of the time, kennel cough is caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria. The lining of the nasal tract gets weaker, which makes it easier for other infections to get in.

● Canine Parainfluenza Virus: A very common virus that spreads quickly in places where there are a lot of dogs.

● Canine Adenovirus Type 2: This is another virus that contributes to the inflammation of the airways.

These pathogens are airborne and can spread quickly when an infected dog coughs or sneezes, releasing tiny droplets into the air. They can also be transmitted through direct contact with an infected dog or by sharing contaminated objects like water bowls, toys, or bedding. This is why the condition is so common in places where dogs congregate, such as boarding kennels, doggy daycare, and dog parks.

How Long Does Kennel Cough Last?

The duration of kennel cough can vary depending on several factors, including the specific pathogens involved and your dog's overall health, age, and vaccination status.

In a typical, uncomplicated case in a healthy adult dog, you can expect the symptoms to last for one to three weeks. The cough is often at its worst during the first week and will gradually subside.

However, in some situations, the recovery can be longer. For puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with pre-existing health conditions, the illness may linger for up to six weeks. These dogs have less robust immune systems, making it harder for them to fight off the infection.

It is also important to consider the incubation period, which is the time from exposure to the appearance of symptoms. This can range from two to fourteen days. A dog can be contagious during this period without showing any signs of illness. Most dogs are no longer contagious after 10 to 14 days, but some can shed the bacteria for a longer period after symptoms have resolved. A good rule of thumb is to keep your dog isolated from other dogs for about two weeks after their last cough.

How Can I Make My Dog More Comfortable During Recovery?

While kennel cough typically resolves on its own, your role is to provide supportive care to keep your furry friend comfortable as they recover. Here are some practical steps you can take:

Rest: Ensure your dog gets plenty of rest. Avoid strenuous activities like long walks, running, or vigorous play, as excitement and exertion can trigger severe coughing fits and irritate the airways further. A calm and quiet environment is ideal for recovery.

Environment: Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air, which can soothe your dog's irritated throat and nasal passages. If you don't have a humidifier, you can bring your dog into the bathroom while you run a hot shower. The steam will have a similar soothing effect. Ensure the room is well-ventilated but free from drafts.

Diet: Keep your dog well-hydrated by providing constant access to fresh water. To encourage drinking, you can offer low-sodium chicken or beef broth. Softening their dry food with a little warm water can make it easier to swallow and less irritating to their throat.

Equipment Selection: It is strongly recommended to use a harness instead of a collar for walks. A collar puts direct pressure on the trachea (windpipe), which is already inflamed and sensitive. This pressure can induce coughing and cause pain. A comfortable, well-fitting harness that distributes pressure across the chest and back is a must-have during the recovery period.

Keep Them Warm: Make sure your dog has a warm and cozy place to rest, especially in cooler weather. A soft bed with extra blankets can provide comfort. For an added layer of warmth, you can dress your dog in a comfortable dog sweater during the day or a pair of soft dog pajamas at night. This extra insulation is particularly helpful for short-haired breeds and helps them conserve the energy needed to fight off the infection.

When Should I Call the Vet About Kennel Cough?

For most healthy adult dogs, kennel cough is a mild, self-limiting illness. However, there are times when a visit to the veterinarian is necessary. You should contact your vet if:

● Your dog is a young puppy, a senior, or has a known underlying health issue.

● The coughing is severe or persistent and doesn't show signs of improving after a week.

● Your dog becomes lethargic, loses their appetite, or develops a fever.

● Your dog has difficulty breathing or is breathing rapidly.

● The discharge from the nose or eyes becomes thick, yellow, or green.

These can be signs that the kennel cough is progressing to a more serious secondary infection, such as pneumonia, which requires prompt medical attention. A veterinarian can accurately diagnose the issue and may prescribe antibiotics if a bacterial infection is suspected, or cough suppressants to make your dog more comfortable.

Your Guide to a Quiet Recovery

Navigating your dog's kennel cough is primarily about patience and providing comfort. By understanding the timeline and offering supportive care, you can help your companion through this temporary illness. Remember to monitor them closely for any signs of complications and trust your intuition—if you're worried, a call to your vet is always the best course of action for your beloved pet.

FAQs about Kennel Cough

Q1: How do veterinarians diagnose kennel cough?

Vets typically diagnose kennel cough based on the characteristic cough and a history of recent exposure to other dogs. In many cases, a physical exam is sufficient. If the symptoms are severe or if the vet suspects another condition, they may recommend further diagnostics like chest X-rays to rule out pneumonia or other respiratory issues.

Q2: Can a dog get kennel cough more than once?

Yes, a dog can get kennel cough multiple times. Just like the human cold, there are many different strains of viruses and bacteria that can cause the illness. Immunity to one strain does not necessarily protect against others.

Q3: Can I get kennel cough from my dog?

While it is extremely rare, the primary bacterium, Bordetella bronchiseptica, can in very rare instances infect humans, particularly those who are immunocompromised. For the average healthy person, the risk is negligible.

Q4: Is there a vaccine for kennel cough?

Yes, there are vaccines that can protect against Bordetella bronchiseptica and canine parainfluenza virus, which are the two most common causes of kennel cough. Even though the vaccine doesn't protect against all possible causes, it can make your dog's sickness a lot less severe if it does get it. This vaccine is generally required by kennels and doggie daycares.