How Long Does Kennel Cough Last?

The Short Answer: Most cases of kennel cough last 1-3 weeks in healthy dogs, though the duration can vary based on your dog’s age, immune system, and overall health. While this respiratory infection typically resolves on its own, proper care and monitoring can help speed recovery and prevent complications.

If your dog has developed that distinctive honking cough, you’re probably wondering how long this uncomfortable condition will last. Understanding the typical timeline for kennel cough can help you provide the best care for your furry friend and know when professional veterinary attention might be needed.

What is Kennel Cough? (Quick Overview)

Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis or canine infectious respiratory disease, is a highly contagious respiratory infection that affects dogs of all ages. This condition gets its name because it spreads rapidly in places where dogs are housed together, like boarding kennels, doggy daycare facilities, and dog parks.

The infection is typically caused by bacteria like Bordetella bronchiseptica or viruses such as canine parainfluenza virus. These pathogens attack the respiratory tract, causing inflammation and that characteristic persistent cough that sounds like your dog is trying to clear something from their throat.

Most pet parents first notice the telltale honking cough, which may be accompanied by retching or gagging. Other kennel cough symptoms can include:

• Runny nose or nasal discharge
• Mild lethargy or decreased energy
• Retching after coughing fits
• Normal appetite in most cases

 Many dogs maintain their normal appetite and energy levels during mild cases.

Kennel Cough Timeline: What to Expect

Understanding how long kennel cough lasts requires looking at the different phases of this respiratory infection.

Incubation Period 

The incubation period typically ranges from 2-14 days after your dog has been exposed to an infected dog through direct contact or contaminated surfaces like water bowls.

Active Symptom Phase

During the active symptom phase, most healthy dogs will experience clinical signs for 1-3 weeks. The persistent cough usually appears first and may worsen over the first few days before gradually improving. In uncomplicated cases, you’ll notice the cough becoming less frequent and less severe as your dog’s immune system fights off the infection.

Recovery Phase

The recovery phase involves gradual improvement over several days to weeks. Even after the main symptoms resolve, some dogs may have an occasional mild cough for a few additional days as the respiratory tract fully heals from the inflammation. 

Several factors influence how long this timeline takes, including your dog’s vaccination status, age, overall health, and whether they develop any secondary infections during their illness.

Mild vs. Severe Cases: Duration Differences

The duration of kennel cough varies significantly between mild and severe cases. Uncomplicated kennel cough in a healthy dog typically resolves within 7-21 days with proper supportive care and rest. These cases usually involve the characteristic cough without additional complications or severe symptoms.

However, complicated cases can extend to 6 weeks or longer, particularly in puppies, senior dogs, or those with compromised immune systems. Severe cases may develop when the initial infection progresses to pneumonia or when secondary bacterial infections occur alongside the primary viral infection.

Warning signs that indicate a more serious case include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Persistent fever
• Colored nasal discharge
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy

When the duration extends beyond 3-4 weeks without improvement, this often suggests the presence of secondary infections or complications that require more aggressive treatment.

Factors That Affect How Long Kennel Cough Lasts

Puppies and older dogs are at higher risk for developing severe symptoms and longer recovery times due to their developing or weakened immune systems. These dogs may require more intensive monitoring and treatment to prevent complications.

Several key factors influence the duration and severity of kennel cough in dogs:

Age and Immune System Status

Age plays a crucial role, with puppies and senior dogs typically experiencing longer recovery times due to their immune system status. Young puppies have developing immune systems, while older dogs may have weakened immunity that makes fighting off infections more challenging.

Overall Health Conditions

Your dog’s overall health and immune system strength significantly impact recovery time. Dogs with underlying conditions like chronic bronchitis, heart disease, or other respiratory issues may experience prolonged symptoms and are at higher risk for complications.

Vaccination Status

Vaccination status also affects duration. Dogs who have received the bordetella vaccine or kennel cough vaccination may experience milder symptoms and shorter illness duration, though vaccination doesn’t guarantee complete prevention of the infection.

Environmental Factors

Environmental factors such as stress, poor air quality, overcrowding, and exposure to other infectious agents can prolong recovery. Dogs in boarding kennels or high-stress situations may take longer to recover due to compromised immune function.

The specific infectious agent involved can also influence duration. Some strains of the bordetella bacterium or viral infections may cause more persistent symptoms than others.

Treatment Options and How They Impact Recovery Time

Proper treatment can significantly reduce how long kennel cough lasts and improve your dog’s comfort during recovery. Most cases respond well to supportive care, which focuses on helping your dog’s immune system fight the infection naturally.

Treatment options include:

• Supportive care: Ensuring plenty of rest, maintaining good hydration, and using a humidifier to help soothe the irritated respiratory tract. Many veterinarians recommend avoiding exercise during the acute phase to prevent worsening the cough and allow the airways to heal.
• Cough suppressants: May be prescribed to provide relief from the persistent cough, especially if it’s interfering with sleep or causing significant discomfort. However, these medications are used judiciously since coughing helps clear the respiratory tract of mucus and debris.
• Antibiotics: When bacterial components like Bordetella bronchiseptica are suspected or confirmed, antibiotics may be prescribed. While antibiotics don’t help with viral infections, they can prevent or treat secondary bacterial infections and may shorten the overall duration in cases involving bacterial pathogens.
• Anti-inflammatory medications: Might be recommended in severe cases to reduce airway inflammation and improve breathing comfort. These treatment options, when used appropriately, can help reduce symptom duration and prevent complications.

When to See Your Veterinarian

Certain symptoms warrant immediate veterinary attention, even if kennel cough typically resolves on its own. Contact your veterinarian right away if your dog shows signs of difficulty breathing, develops a fever, stops eating, becomes lethargic, or if the cough worsens significantly.

Timeline markers for veterinary visits include no improvement after 10-14 days of supportive care, worsening symptoms after initial improvement, or development of colored nasal discharge. These signs may indicate secondary infections or complications that require professional treatment.

If your dog develops severe symptoms like pneumonia, the recovery time can extend significantly beyond the typical kennel cough duration. Professional veterinary care ensures proper diagnosis and treatment to minimize complications and speed recovery.

Your Dog’s Recovery: What Pet Parents Need to Know

Most dogs with kennel cough recover within 1-3 weeks with proper care and monitoring. The key to minimizing duration is providing supportive care, ensuring adequate rest, and seeking veterinary attention when symptoms worsen or don’t improve as expected.

Prevention through vaccination remains the best strategy for reducing your dog’s risk of developing kennel cough. The bordetella vaccination, often given as a nasal spray or injection, can significantly reduce the severity and duration of symptoms if your dog does become infected.

At Coastal Veterinary Care in Myrtle Beach, our experienced team is here to help guide you through any concerns about your dog’s respiratory health. If you notice kennel cough symptoms or have questions about prevention strategies, don’t hesitate to contact our office.

Remember that while kennel cough can be concerning for pet parents, most dogs recover completely with appropriate care. By understanding the typical timeline and knowing when to seek professional help, you can ensure your furry friend gets back to feeling their best as quickly as possible.