Kennel cough and infectious respiratory illness

Kennel cough describes an infectious respiratory syndrome that may involve several organisms. Close contact, including boarding and group activities, can help it spread. Other diseases also cause coughing.

Record the cough and recent contacts, pause group activities, and call your veterinarian for assessment and separation advice. Do not choose human cough medicines yourself.

Treatment and medication overview

Supportive care: mild illness often improves on its own. A vet assesses severity, advises on nutrition and hygiene, and checks for lung involvement when needed. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual, pet owner version.

Antibiotics: routine use is usually unnecessary. With evidence of pneumonia, a vet selects treatment using culture and susceptibility results. Merck’s professional reference lists options such as doxycycline and amoxicillin/clavulanic acid; suitability requires veterinary assessment.

Cough suppressants: vets sometimes prescribe them for persistent dry coughing. They must not be used in dogs with pneumonia. Sources: Merck professional and pet owner versions.

Source differences: the isdpp article lists branded products and injectable medicines. Its link is retained for reference, not as a home treatment plan. Drug names explain treatment concepts; the attending vet determines medicine, dose and duration.

Prepared from the references below for education. This website’s summary has not undergone independent veterinary review. Sources checked: 30 Sep 2026.