Does Kennel Cough Get Worse Before It Gets Better in Dogs

Kennel cough can be a real challenge for dogs and their owners. Symptoms can start to appear within 2-14 days after exposure to the virus, often beginning with a mild cough that gradually worsens over time.

The cough can become more persistent and productive, producing thick, yellow or green mucus. In severe cases, dogs may also experience fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite.

As the infection takes hold, the cough can become more intense and may sound like a honking or barking noise. This is due to the inflammation of the trachea and bronchi, which can cause the airways to become constricted and produce a harsh, hacking sound.

It's essential to note that kennel cough can be contagious, spreading quickly among dogs in close proximity, such as in kennels, shelters, or dog daycare centers.

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If your dog has kennel cough, it's essential to know when to take action. You shouldn't walk them around other dogs until they've been clear of symptoms for two days.

The symptoms of kennel cough usually last for 2-3 weeks, but may be up to a month. This means you'll need to be patient and wait for the right time to resume your usual routine.

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You shouldn't walk your dog around other dogs until they've been clear of symptoms for two days if they have kennel cough.

Their symptoms may last for 2-3 weeks, but it's essential to be patient and wait for the all-clear.

It's frustrating to keep your pup cooped up, but it's crucial to prevent an outbreak of sick dogs.

Soon you'll be out with your fur buddy enjoying walkies safely again, once their symptoms have passed.

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Symptoms of kennel cough usually develop between two and 10 days following exposure. Most cases of kennel cough cause mild disease, with symptoms that tend to be more aggravating to owners than dangerous to the dog.

The symptoms of kennel cough are similar to those of other respiratory illnesses, some of which may be more dangerous, so veterinary evaluation is important.

Here are the common symptoms of kennel cough in puppies:

The symptoms of kennel cough can be quite unpleasant for your furry friend.

The symptoms usually develop between two and 10 days following exposure, and most cases cause mild disease. Kennel cough causes inflammation of the trachea and bronchi, resulting in a telltale cough that often sounds like a high-pitched "goose honking."

A persistent cough is the most common symptom, often accompanied by a "honking" sound.

Nasal or eye discharge is less common, but can occur if the disease progresses without treatment.

Slight fever and loss of appetite are also possible symptoms.

The cough can be prompted by excitement, leash tugging, drinking, or gentle pressure applied to the base of the dog’s throat.

Labored breathing is not typically a symptom of kennel cough, but if you notice it, you should contact a mobile veterinarian right away.

Kennel cough is a contagious respiratory disease that causes inflammation of a dog's trachea and bronchi.

It's caused by infectious viral or bacterial agents, often Bordetella, which damage the cilia in an infected dog's airways.

Bordetella is a common name for an infection caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria, commonly associated with kennel cough.

This condition got its name from boarding kennels, a likely source of disease transmission.

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If your dog is suffering from kennel cough, there are some things you can do at home to help soothe its symptoms. Use a vaporizer or humidifier to help unclog the nose, or take a hot shower with your dog to fill the air with steam.

A 10-minute session several times a day can work great, but be careful not to make it too hot or humid, especially for short-faced dogs like bulldogs and pugs.

To help your dog feel more comfortable, you can use a warm washcloth or cotton balls to soak and soften eye or nose secretions and clean them off.

Don't peel dried matter off because that can hurt or damage the skin.

If your dog is refusing to eat, ask your vet about offering pungent and more tempting foods to spark its appetite. Warm the food for five seconds in the microwave to just below body temperature, about 95 to 98 degrees Fahrenheit.

Adding a small amount of warm water or chicken broth to your dog's food can also help enhance the aroma and make it more appealing.

If your dog's appetite doesn't improve within 24 hours, call your veterinarian for advice.

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Recovery from kennel cough can take a few weeks, but it's essential to keep a close eye on your dog's health during this time.

Dogs with severe cases of kennel cough are at risk of developing pneumonia, which can be a life-threatening condition if left untreated.

Proper care and veterinary attention can help prevent complications and ensure a smooth recovery.

Infected dogs can remain contagious to other dogs for several weeks, making isolation crucial in multi-dog households.

With attentive care, most dogs can recover from kennel cough without any long-term effects.

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