Is This Normal? Finder · Breathing and coughing

My puppy has a honking cough. Is it kennel cough?

By Dr. Steve Pelton, DVM

The short answer

It might be. Kennel cough is a dry, goose-like honk, sometimes ending in a little gag, and it often starts 5 to 10 days after a puppy was around other dogs. Many cases are mild, but in a young puppy a cough can turn into pneumonia, so any cough is a call. Keep him away from other dogs until your vet says he's clear.

Why it happens

Kennel cough spreads wherever dogs are close together, like shelters, transports and boarding. That's why it so often shows up a week or so after a puppy comes home.

Which door?

CALL TODAYCould be kennel cough.
GO NOWHe's struggling to breathe, won't eat or is very tired.

When to call

Tick what fits and see which door you're at.

CALL TODAYA honking cough in a bright puppy who's eating
GO NOWStruggling to breathe, won't eat, or very tired

Your door: WATCHWATCH

Nothing ticked and he's bright, playful, eating and drinking? Keep an eye on him, jot down what you see, and call in the daytime if it doesn't settle.

What helps

Call ahead before you go in, so the clinic can keep him away from other puppies

Under 16 weeks, a toy breed, or not done with his shots? Move everything one door closer to GO NOW.

GO NOW means: Head to your vet, if they're open and can see him right away, or to the nearest emergency clinic. Call on the way so they're ready for you.

Not sure which door you're at? That's a call. Call your vet.

Worried right now? Check the Three Doors list, from most urgent down, and stop at the first door that fits.

Is this an emergency?

General education, not veterinary advice. Your vet's plan for your puppy comes first.