Kennel cough symptoms and treatment: What dog owners need to know this summer

An untreated case of canine cough can leave a dog lethargic. Photo / 123rf

New dog or puppy owners are being warned to vaccinate their animals for kennel cough before their summer holidays.

Canine cough, often known as kennel cough, is a highly contagious respiratory infection that affects dogs.

CareVets Cameron Road’s lead veterinarian, Keith Witney, said summer was the time when more dogs were in kennels and boarding facilities while owners were on holiday and the confined environments could lead to an outbreak if there was an infected dog in the mix.

“It comes round every summer, especially when there are big groups together, they are more at risk.”

He said most kennels would ask for proof of vaccinations before allowing the dog to stay to prevent outbreaks.

Witney said kennel cough outbreaks often came in waves, going through doggy daycares or kennels.

It was a complex infection with bacterial and viral components. He said it was very rarely fatal, and vaccines were the only protection.

“They don’t offer 100% protection, but they do offer death protection.”

He compared kennel cough to human viruses like the common cold, flu and Covid-19, where there are different strains, and the virus is always around to some extent.

“Best thing to do is vaccinate and keep suspected contagious dogs separate.”

Tauranga SPCA manager Andrea Crompton said most dogs would recover within two to three weeks, however puppies and older dogs, or those with underlying health issues may develop more serious illness.

Tauranga SPCA manager Andrea Crompton with puppy Moon. Photo / Brydie Thompson

“It spreads easily, much like a cold would among humans, in places where dogs gather, such as boarding kennels, doggy daycare, grooming salons, and parks.”

Crompton said vaccinations could significantly reduce the severity and spread of the infection.

Signs of canine cough include a persistent, hacking cough, which Crompton said was often described as sounding like a goose honk.

Other symptoms include retching or gagging, sometimes producing a small amount of mucus, sneezing and nasal discharge, mild lethargy or reduced appetite.

“Canine cough doesn’t discriminate. Whether you have a young pup or an older dog, they can all potentially contract the disease.”

Crompton said if your dog developed a persistent cough, keep them home from parks, kennels and daycares and contact your vet for advice.

“To prevent spreading, keep sick dogs away from others until cleared by a vet.

“Ensure your dog rests, has access to fresh water, and eats an appropriate, nutritiously balanced diet to support recovery.”

Crompton said to keep dogs away from smoke, dust, or other airway irritants that could worsen the coughing.

“Canine cough can sometimes require specific treatment, especially if it progresses to pneumonia.”

She said to seek veterinary assistance if symptoms worsen.

“Puppies, senior dogs, or those struggling to breathe may need antibiotics or additional treatment.”

Ayla Yeoman is a journalist based in Tauranga. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in Communications and Politics & International Relations from the University of Auckland, and has been a journalist since 2022.