If your furry friend has developed a dry, persistent cough, they may be suffering from kennel cough. While it can sound alarming, kennel cough is usually a mild, self-limiting illness, similar to the common cold in humans. In this blog post, we’ll explore effective home remedies for kennel cough in dogs to help your pup recover comfortably.
What Is Kennel Cough?
Kennel cough, or canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a contagious respiratory disease. It’s spread most often where dogs are crowded together, such as kennels, parks, and pet grooming shops. The illness causes a dry, hacking cough and is triggered by many different viruses and bacteria, such as Bordetella bronchiseptica.
7 Effective Home Remedies for Kennel Cough in Dogs
While it’s always best to consult your vet first, these home remedies can calm your dog’s symptoms and aid their recovery.
1. Honey and Warm Water
Honey and warm water is perhaps the simplest and most reliable home remedy for kennel cough in dogs. Honey calms your dog’s throat and makes it easier to cough.
Mix 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of honey with warm water. Administer 2–3 times daily depending on the size of your dog.
2. Humidifier or Steam Therapy
Dry air will continue to bother your dog’s throat. A humidifier maintains air moist, and your dog will be able to breathe easier.
Alternative:
Sit with your dog in the bathroom when you shower warmly—the steam can soothe coughing and congestion.
3. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil also possesses antibacterial and antiviral characteristics. Coconut oil may be capable of giving your dog an immune system boost.
How to use:
Combine 1/2 teaspoon for little dogs or 1 teaspoon for big dogs with your pet food every day.
4. Herbal Teas (Chamomile or Licorice Root)
Some herbal teas soothe the throat and calm down. Chamomile tea, in fact, has anti-inflammatory properties.
Note: Always check the tea is caffeine-free, cooled, and cleared by your vet prior to administration.
5. Rest and Comfort
Rest is given priority when healing. Provide your dog with a quiet, warm place to rest. Continue light exercise and avoid hard walks until they are good
6. Nutritious, Soft Foods
If your dog is struggling to eat due to a sore throat, switch to soft, easy-to-digest foods. Warm bone broth may also be comforting and hydrating.
7. Stay Away from Irritants
Smoke, dust, and harsh household cleaning products can make your dog’s cough worse. Try to stay away from subjecting them to such irritants while they’re recovering.
When to Visit the Vet
- Most kennel coughs will resolve on their own within a week or two. But call your veterinarian if:
- The cough worsens or doesn’t get better after 7 days
- Your dog is refusing to eat or is showing extreme lethargy
- You notice nasal discharge, fever, or trouble breathing
Can You Prevent Kennel Cough?
- Yes! Better to prevent than to cure. Here’s how:
- Ensure your dog is vaccinated, especially with the Bordetella vaccine
- Avoid going to public dog parks during the outbreak
- Be hygienic with food and water bowls, toys, and bedding
A Few Final Thoughts
Kennel cough is alarming, but with love and kindness and with these natural remedies, your dog will be back on its feet again in no time. Always obtain your vet’s advice before trying any new remedy, and employ these home remedies for kennel cough in dogs as supportive treatment to alleviate symptoms and promote healing.
What is the best treatment for kennel cough in dogs?
The best treatment for kennel cough depends on the severity. Mild cases can often be treated at home using natural remedies like honey, coconut oil, and rest. More severe cases may require prescription medication from a veterinarian, such as antibiotics or cough suppressants.
When should I worry about kennel cough?
You should worry about kennel cough if:
Your dog’s cough lasts more than 10 days
They have trouble breathing
You notice loss of appetite or extreme lethargy
There is yellow/green nasal discharge or a high fever
Contact your vet if any of these symptoms appear.
What are the symptoms of kennel cough?
Common kennel cough symptoms include:
A dry, hacking or honking cough
Gagging or retching
Runny nose or mild sneezing
Fatigue or mild fever
Loss of appetite in some cases
What does kennel cough sound like?
kennel cough often sounds like a honking goose or a dry, hacking cough. Some pet parents describe it as if the dog is trying to clear its throat or gag.
Can dogs die from kennel cough?
in healthy adult dogs, kennel cough is usually not fatal and clears up with time. However, puppies, elderly dogs, or those with weak immune systems are at higher risk of complications like pneumonia, which can be serious. Always consult your vet if symptoms worsen.
How can I treat kennel cough at home?
You can treat mild cases of kennel cough at home by:
Giving honey and warm water
Using a humidifier or steam therapy
Offering soft, warm food and plenty of rest
Avoiding exposure to smoke or strong chemicals
Always check with a vet before using home remedies .