How to Tell If Your Dog Has Kennel Cough or Something Else
Dogs may cough for various reasons, from minor irritants to severe illnesses. Understanding the nature of your dog’s cough is the first step in determining whether it is kennel cough or something more serious. This guide will help pet owners identify the signs, potential causes, and when to seek veterinary help.
Common Signs of Kennel Cough
Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious respiratory disease, is a common and highly contagious illness among dogs. It typically presents with the following symptoms:
- Dry, hacking cough that may sound like a goose honk
- Coughing worsens with excitement, activity, or pulling on a leash
- Runny nose or sneezing
- Lethargy or reduced energy
- Mild fever in some cases
These symptoms often appear a few days after exposure to an infected dog or contaminated environment, such as a kennel or dog park.
Distinguishing Kennel Cough from Other Conditions
Coughing can be a sign of several other health issues. Consider the following conditions and their complementary symptoms:
- Respiratory infections: Often involve coughing, fever, nasal discharge, and lethargy. May worsen with time.
- Allergies: Include coughing, sneezing, itchy eyes, and possibly skin irritations.
- Heart disease: Causes a soft, persistent cough typically worsening at night, with signs like fatigue or abdominal swelling.
- Collapsed trachea: Seen in small breeds, involving a honking cough triggered by pulling on the leash or hot weather.
- Chronic bronchitis: Presents as a dry, hacking cough—often progressive with age or environmental exposure.
- Foreign body: Sudden onset of coughing, gagging, or retching if the object enters the airway.
- Pneumonia: A wet, productive cough, labored breathing, and fever—usually requiring immediate attention.
- Heartworm disease: Involves coughing, exercise intolerance, and may lead to heart failure if untreated.
Types of Cough and Their Possible Causes
- Dry, hacking cough: Kennel cough or chronic bronchitis
- Honking cough: Tracheal collapse
- Wet, phlegmy cough: Pneumonia, canine flu, or congestive heart failure
- High-pitched or gagging cough: Irritation or foreign objects
- Nighttime cough: Often linked to heart disease
Warning Signs Requiring Immediate Vet Attention
- Coughing persists or worsens over several days
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing rates
- Blue or pale gums, drooling, or fainting
- Coughing up blood or colored mucus
- Loss of appetite, fever, or significant weight loss
- Abdominal swelling or persistent vomiting
Veterinary Diagnosis Process
If your dog exhibits concerning symptoms, seek veterinary assistance. A vet may:
- Review the cough's sound, timing, and recent exposure history
- Conduct a physical examination
- Order diagnostic tests such as:
- Bloodwork or heartworm testing
- Chest X-rays
- Fecal or urine analysis
- Bronchoscopy for airway examination
Treatment Options
Treatment is based on the cause and may include:
- Cough suppressants or symptom management medications
- Antibiotics for bacterial infections
- Dewormers for heartworm or lungworm
- Steroids and bronchodilators for inflammation or bronchitis
- Cardiac medications for heart disease
- Surgery or endoscopy for obstructions or tumors
- Oxygen therapy or use of a humidifier for respiratory relief
Home Care Tips
- Ensure rest in a warm, humidified space
- Let the dog inhale steam in a closed bathroom (avoid hot water)
- Prevent exposure to smoke, sprays, or chemical irritants
- Keep your dog hydrated
- Use a harness instead of a collar to reduce neck pressure
Never administer human medications without veterinary guidance.
Preventive Measures
- Vaccinate against kennel cough, canine influenza, and distemper
- Use year-round parasite prevention, especially for heartworm
- Maintain a healthy weight for your pet
- Minimize exposure to environmental irritants
- Supervise your dog in unfamiliar environments
If you’re uncertain about your dog’s cough or observe worsening symptoms, always seek professional veterinary advice. Early detection and treatment are essential for your pet’s health and recovery.
