Kennel cough: when to worry, what to do, and how long it lasts

Does your dog have a dry, hacking cough, but appear fine in every other way?

Photo of a dog outdoors showing symptoms of kennel cough, a common respiratory infection in dogs. The dog is coughing, a sign of kennel cough, which spreads in places like kennels and dog parks.

Overview

Kennel cough is a common illness in dogs that affects the throat and windpipe, causing a dry, hacking cough. It’s mainly caused by bacteria and usually clears up in one to three weeks, but it’s important to know when to worry. If your dog has a persistent cough, starts acting differently, or shows other signs like a loss of appetite or fever, you should contact your vet.

This guide explains what kennel cough sounds like, how long it lasts, when to worry, and what treatments or vaccines may help. We’ll also show you how to protect other dogs and what to expect during recovery.

What does kennel cough sound like?

Kennel cough treatment

How long does kennel cough last?

Kennel cough vaccine

Can I walk my dog with kennel cough?

Medically reviewed by Becky Keeble

Published on 21/06/2018 • Reviewed on 04/11/2024