How to Cure Kennel Cough Naturally in Dogs

Understanding Kennel Cough

Kennel cough, medically known as infectious tracheobronchitis, is a common and highly contagious respiratory condition affecting dogs. It's characterised by a distinctive, harsh, hacking cough that often sounds like a goose honk or like the dog is trying to dislodge something from its throat. While it can be alarming for owners, especially when it's a persistent dog coughing fit, it's usually not a severe illness, comparable in dogs to a human cold. Understanding its causes and symptoms is the first step towards managing it, even when considering how to cure kennel cough naturally.

The condition is caused by a mix of viruses and bacteria. Common culprits include Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria and various viruses like canine adenovirus type 2, canine parainfluenza virus, and canine respiratory coronavirus. These pathogens typically infect the upper airways, leading to inflammation of the trachea (windpipe) and bronchi. Dogs contract kennel cough through close contact with infected animals, often in environments where many dogs gather, such as boarding kennels, doggy daycare centres, grooming salons, or even dog parks. Airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing dogs can easily spread the infection, making it highly transmissible.

Symptoms usually appear within 3 to 10 days after exposure. Beyond the characteristic cough, which may worsen with excitement or pressure on the throat (like a collar), dogs might exhibit other signs. These can include a runny nose, sneezing, mild lethargy, and occasionally a low-grade fever. In most cases, the cough is dry and non-productive, but some dogs may gag or retch after a coughing spell, sometimes bringing up mucus or foam. While the cough can be distressing, it's crucial to remember that the dog's overall demeanour usually remains normal, and they continue to eat and drink, unless complications arise.

It's important to differentiate kennel cough from other conditions that might cause a dog to cough or sneeze. For instance, reverse sneezing in dogs, which sounds like a snorting or gasping fit, is usually benign and related to upper airway irritation, while dog hiccups are typically short-lived. A persistent cough, especially if accompanied by difficulty breathing, panting shivering dog behaviour, or a significant change in energy levels, warrants immediate veterinary attention. Understanding these distinctions helps in deciding the most appropriate course of action, whether that's professional treatment or supportive home care.

When to Consult a Veterinarian

While many cases of kennel cough resolve on their own within a few weeks with supportive care, there are critical times when professional veterinary advice is non-negotiable. If your dog is very young, elderly, has a compromised immune system, or suffers from underlying health conditions such as heart disease or respiratory issues, kennel cough can become more serious. Seek veterinary help immediately if your dog experiences difficulty breathing, seems unusually lethargic, loses their appetite, develops a high fever, or if the cough persists for longer than three weeks or worsens significantly.

Veterinary examination can confirm the diagnosis and rule out more severe conditions like pneumonia, collapsing trachea, or heartworm, which can mimic kennel cough symptoms. A vet can provide a definitive diagnosis and recommend appropriate medical treatments, such as antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections or anti-inflammatory medications to reduce airway swelling and discomfort. They can also advise on palliative care measures tailored to your dog's specific health status, ensuring you are equipped to provide the best care, whether through conventional or complementary methods.

• Kennel cough is a contagious respiratory illness in dogs.
• Symptoms include a harsh, hacking cough, often like a goose honk.
• It's caused by viruses and bacteria, spread through close contact.
• Seek vet advice for severe symptoms or at-risk dogs.

Natural Approaches to Soothe Coughing

When your dog is diagnosed with kennel cough or you suspect they have it, the primary goal is to support their body's natural healing process and alleviate discomfort. While there's no magic bullet to instantly "cure" a viral or bacterial infection, a combination of rest, hydration, and specific natural remedies can significantly aid recovery. These methods focus on reducing inflammation, soothing irritated airways, and boosting the immune system. It's vital to remember that these natural approaches are best used under the guidance of a veterinarian, especially if your dog has pre-existing health conditions or shows severe symptoms.

For supporting your dog's recovery, consider these home-based strategies. Ensuring your dog gets plenty of rest is paramount. Limit their physical activity to short, gentle walks for essential needs only. Overexertion can exacerbate the cough and prolong recovery. Adequate hydration is also key; keep fresh, clean water readily available at all times. Adding a little low-sodium chicken or beef broth (ensure it's free from onion and garlic powder, which are toxic to dogs) to their water can encourage intake, especially if appetite is diminished.

Steaming can be highly beneficial for loosening mucus and easing a dry, hacking cough. You can achieve this by running a hot shower in a small, enclosed bathroom and sitting in there with your dog for 10-15 minutes, a few times a day. The warm, moist air helps to thin secretions in the airways, making them easier to cough up or clear. Alternatively, you can place a humidifier in the room where your dog sleeps. Ensure the humidifier is kept clean to prevent mould or bacteria growth.

Herbal and Supplement Support

Certain natural supplements and herbs are traditionally used to support respiratory health and immune function. Honey, for instance, is a well-known natural cough suppressant and can also help soothe a sore throat. Offer a small amount (about 1 teaspoon for medium-sized dogs, half for small breeds) once or twice a day. Ensure it's pure, raw honey, as pasteurised honey loses some of its beneficial properties. Avoid giving honey to puppies under one year of age due to the risk of botulism.

→ Kennel Cough in Dogs: Symptoms and What To Do

Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm coughs and reduce airway irritation. It should be given in small, diluted amounts, perhaps as a weak tea cooled and added to water, or under veterinary supervision, as it can have side effects if used incorrectly or in large doses. Slippery elm (Ulmus rubra) is another excellent herb for soothing irritated mucous membranes. It forms a protective gel-like substance when mixed with water, which can coat and calm a sore throat and inflamed trachea. It can be given as a powder mixed with water or food.

Probiotic supplements can also play a role in supporting overall health and immune function. A healthy gut is linked to a robust immune system, which is crucial for fighting off infections. Look for canine-specific probiotic formulas. Echinacea is often used to support the immune system, but its use should be discussed with your vet, as it's generally considered more effective for prevention or in the early stages of illness.

Administer any herbal remedies or supplements in a manner that minimises stress for your dog; mixing them into a small amount of palatable food or water is often best.

Dietary Considerations

While you don't need to drastically change your dog's diet, ensuring their food is highly digestible and nutritious can support their recovery. Consider adding a spoonful of plain, unsweetened pumpkin puree to their food, which is great for digestion and can help with any mild gastrointestinal upset that sometimes accompanies illness or medication. Bone broth, made by simmering bones (without spices, onions, or garlic), provides hydration and beneficial minerals that can aid healing. Ensure any broth is low-sodium and suitable for canine consumption.

When dealing with a dog coughing, dog sneezing a lot, or general respiratory distress, sometimes a bland, easily digestible diet is preferable. If your dog's appetite is reduced, warming their regular food slightly can enhance its aroma and palatability. For severe cases or prolonged recovery, your vet might recommend a specific therapeutic diet designed to support immune function or aid recovery from illness.

Managing the Home Environment

Creating a conducive environment at home is a crucial aspect of supporting your dog's recovery from kennel cough. The goal is to minimise irritants that could trigger coughing fits and to promote a calm, comfortable space where healing can occur. This involves paying attention to air quality, temperature, and the dog's immediate surroundings. A clean, quiet, and stress-free home will make a significant difference in your dog’s comfort and speed of recovery.

Air quality is paramount. Avoid using strong-smelling cleaning products, air fresheners, aerosols, or essential oil diffusers in your home, as these can irritate a dog's sensitive airways and worsen their cough. Instead, opt for natural, unscented cleaning solutions. Ensure good ventilation by opening windows when weather permits, especially after cleaning, but avoid direct drafts on your dog. If the air is particularly dry, a humidifier, as mentioned previously, can help keep nasal passages and airways moist, reducing irritation and the likelihood of gagging or choking on dry coughs.

Maintain a comfortable temperature for your dog. While they should not be overheated, keeping them warm and cosy, especially during colder months, can aid their recovery. Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations. If your dog is prone to panting shivering dog behaviour when unwell, ensure their resting area is draft-free and comfortable. For dogs that usually sleep on cool surfaces, ensure their preferred spot is still accessible but perhaps supplemented with a soft, warm bedding option.

Reducing Environmental Triggers

Certain activities or stimuli can trigger a coughing spell in a dog with kennel cough. The most common trigger is excitement, such as during playtime, greeting guests, or being put on a lead. Try to keep your dog in a calm state, especially during the initial stages of the illness. If you must put a collar on your dog for walks, consider switching to a harness temporarily. A harness distributes pressure around the chest and shoulders, avoiding direct pressure on the trachea, which can often provoke a harsh cough. This is particularly important if you have a dog reverse coughing and sneezing often, as tracheal irritation is a common factor.

Minimize stress and anxiety for your dog. Loud noises, sudden changes in routine, or the presence of other dogs (even if they are healthy) can cause excitement or stress that exacerbates coughing. Provide a quiet, designated resting area where your dog can retreat and feel safe. If you have other pets, ensure they are also calm and do not disturb the recovering dog. If other dogs in the household are healthy, try to keep them separate from the sick dog to prevent cross-infection and to give the ill dog peace.

→ How to Get Rid of Dog Hiccups Safely

Replace your dog's regular collar with a comfortable harness during recovery to prevent pressure on the throat and trachea, which can trigger coughing fits.

Hygiene and Prevention of Spread

Even though you are focusing on how to cure kennel cough naturally within your own home, good hygiene is essential to prevent the spread of infection to other pets or to reinfect your own dog. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling your sick dog, before and after feeding them, and after cleaning up any discharge or accidents. If you have multiple dogs, it is crucial to keep the infected dog separate from healthy ones. This includes separate food and water bowls, bedding, and living areas. Clean and disinfect shared spaces and items regularly.

Disinfecting toys, bowls, and bedding is vital. Use a veterinary-approved disinfectant or a diluted bleach solution (ensure thorough rinsing and drying to remove all chemical traces). Kennel cough bacteria and viruses can survive on surfaces for a period, so thorough cleaning helps break the chain of transmission. If your dog was recently in a high-risk environment, monitor all other dogs in your household closely for any signs of illness, even if they appear healthy. Remember, a dog sneezing a lot could be an early sign.

Natural Remedies: What to Use and What to Avoid

When exploring natural ways to help your dog recover from kennel cough, it's important to be discerning about which remedies are genuinely beneficial and which might be ineffective or even harmful. The principles of natural treatment focus on supporting the body's immune response and providing symptomatic relief without introducing harsh chemicals or side effects. This means selecting ingredients known for their soothing, anti-inflammatory, or immune-boosting properties, while being mindful of dosage and potential interactions.

Beneficial Natural Aids:

• Honey: As previously mentioned, a small amount of raw honey can soothe a sore throat and act as a natural cough suppressant. Its viscosity coats the throat, offering relief from irritation.
• Slippery Elm Bark: This herb creates a mucilage that coats and soothes inflamed mucous membranes in the throat and trachea, providing a protective layer and reducing the tickle that causes coughing.
• Licorice Root (Deglycyrrhizinated - DGL): In its deglycyrrhizinated form (DGL), licorice root is safer for long-term use and retains anti-inflammatory properties beneficial for respiratory tissues. Always use DGL forms to avoid potential side effects associated with glycyrrhizin.
• Marshmallow Root: Similar to slippery elm, marshmallow root contains mucilage that soothes irritated airways and can help calm a cough.
• Probiotics: Supporting gut health can bolster the immune system, helping your dog fight the infection more effectively. Choose high-quality, canine-specific probiotics.
• Coconut Oil: A small amount of virgin coconut oil can provide healthy fats that support the immune system and may have mild antimicrobial properties.

Always source supplements and herbs from reputable suppliers and consult your veterinarian for appropriate dosages for your specific dog's size and health status. Using these in moderation can be a safe and effective addition to supportive care.

What to Avoid

Just as important as knowing what to use is understanding what natural remedies or common household items could be detrimental. Some substances believed to be helpful for humans are not suitable for dogs, or require extreme caution.

• Essential Oils: While some essential oils have antimicrobial properties, they are often too concentrated and volatile for dogs. Inhaling them can irritate a dog's respiratory system, potentially worsening their cough or causing adverse reactions. Never diffuse essential oils in the same room as your dog, and certainly do not apply them topically without expert veterinary guidance. Many oils are toxic to dogs.
• Human Cough Syrups/Medications: These often contain ingredients like xylitol (highly toxic to dogs), alcohol, or other compounds that can be harmful. Never give your dog human medication unless specifically directed by your vet.
• Onion and Garlic: These are toxic to dogs and should never be included in homemade remedies or food.
• Excessive Salt: While some recipes might call for low-sodium broth, avoid adding extra salt to your dog's food or water.
• Aggressive Treatments: Avoid any remedies that involve forceful administration or that could cause stress. For example, trying to force-feed large quantities of liquid or attempting to induce vomiting is not recommended.

The concept of 'natural' doesn't always equate to 'safe' for pets. Always err on the side of caution and prioritise your dog's safety by consulting veterinary professionals for advice on any treatment, natural or otherwise.

When administering any liquid remedy, use a syringe (without the needle) to gently offer small amounts directly into the side of your dog's mouth, allowing them time to swallow, rather than forcing it down their throat.

The Role of Hydration and Rest

It cannot be overstated how critical hydration and rest are, even when exploring more active natural remedies. Think of them as the foundational 'materials' in your recipe for recovery. Hydration keeps the mucus thin and the airways lubricated, making coughing more productive and less painful. Rest allows the body to dedicate its energy to fighting the infection and repairing damaged tissues. When a dog is unwell, their body needs to conserve energy, so pushing them to be active or engaging them in strenuous activities will only hinder the healing process.

→ Canal Cough in Dogs: What It Is & How to Help

Consider how a human body responds to a cold: ample fluids and plenty of sleep are always recommended. Dogs are no different. A dog that is drinking well will often have clearer nasal passages and a less dry, tickly cough. A dog that is resting will appear calmer and less prone to coughing fits triggered by exertion or excitement. These simple, natural supports are often the most impactful in helping your dog feel better and recover from kennel cough.

When Natural Care Isn't Enough

While many dogs recover from kennel cough with supportive home care and natural remedies, it's crucial to recognise the limitations of these approaches. If your dog's condition does not improve, or if it deteriorates, professional veterinary intervention becomes essential. Natural methods are designed to complement, not replace, veterinary care, especially when dealing with potentially serious infections or complications. Understanding when to escalate treatment is as important as knowing how to cure kennel cough naturally.

The signs that indicate your dog needs to see a vet are not always dramatic. Persistent symptoms are a key indicator. If the cough doesn't start to subside within 7-10 days of home care, or if it continues for more than three weeks, it's time to seek professional advice. This duration suggests that either the initial diagnosis might be incorrect, or a secondary infection, such as pneumonia, has developed. Pneumonia is a serious condition where the lungs become inflamed, potentially leading to difficulty breathing and requiring prompt antibiotic treatment.

Changes in your dog's behaviour or physical condition are also red flags. A dog that is usually energetic and playful but becomes significantly lethargic, uninterested in food, or shows signs of pain needs immediate veterinary attention. Difficulty breathing, rapid breathing (dog breathing fast), or a blueish tint to the gums or tongue are emergency signs and require immediate veterinary care. These symptoms can indicate compromised oxygen levels and a critical illness. A dog coughing, dog sneezing a lot, and then suddenly struggling to breathe is a serious situation.

Recognising Complications

Kennel cough can sometimes lead to complications. The most common is a secondary bacterial infection, which is why vets sometimes prescribe antibiotics. Even if you are focused on natural methods, your vet can assess if antibiotics are necessary. If your dog develops a fever (generally above 103.5°F or 39.7°C), has thick, coloured nasal discharge (yellow or green), or seems generally unwell, these could be signs of a secondary infection that requires medical treatment. The Bordetella bacteria, a common cause of kennel cough, can sometimes lead to more severe respiratory issues if left untreated or if the dog's immune system is compromised.

Other less common but serious complications can include pleuritis (inflammation of the lung lining) or even bronchitis. These conditions can cause significant pain and discomfort, and may require more intensive treatment, including pain management and specific medications. If you notice your dog is reluctant to move, whimpers when touched, or shows other signs of pain, a vet needs to evaluate them. The distinction between a simple cough and a symptom of a more severe underlying issue like heart murmurs or collapsing trachea needs to be made by a professional.

Keep a daily log of your dog's symptoms, including the frequency and severity of coughing, appetite, energy levels, and any discharge, to provide your vet with precise information.

Veterinary Treatments for Severe Cases

If natural remedies are insufficient, your veterinarian has a range of options. Antibiotics are frequently prescribed to combat bacterial infections, particularly if Bordetella bronchiseptica is involved or if secondary bacterial infections are suspected. These are crucial for preventing the spread of infection and resolving illness quickly. Anti-inflammatory medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) specifically formulated for dogs, can be used to reduce swelling in the airways and alleviate pain and discomfort, making it easier for your dog to breathe and rest.

For severe coughing fits, your vet might prescribe cough suppressants, though these are used judiciously, as coughing is a necessary mechanism to clear the airways. In cases of secondary pneumonia, oxygen therapy may be required, where your dog breathes a higher concentration of oxygen to aid recovery. Intravenous fluids might be administered if the dog is dehydrated or has lost its appetite. The vet’s goal is to stabilise the dog, treat the underlying cause, manage symptoms, and support the body’s natural healing process, potentially in conjunction with the natural care you are providing at home.

FAQs on Natural Kennel Cough Care

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to common questions about managing kennel cough naturally.