Kennel Cough Home Remedies: Natural Ways to Help Your Dog

Kennel cough (infectious tracheobronchitis) is a common respiratory infection in dogs that causes a persistent, dry cough. While veterinary care is often necessary, there are several home remedies that can help soothe your dog’s symptoms and support their recovery. This guide explores safe, natural approaches to managing kennel cough at home.

Understanding Kennel Cough

Before trying home remedies, it’s important to understand what kennel cough is. This highly contagious condition is caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria, most commonly Bordetella bronchiseptica. Symptoms include: Kennel Cough Home Remedies.

• Persistent dry, hacking cough (often described as a “honking” sound)
• Gagging or retching after coughing
• Nasal discharge
• Mild fever in some cases
• Lethargy

Important: While mild cases may resolve with home care, severe cases or symptoms like difficulty breathing, loss of appetite, or green nasal discharge require immediate veterinary attention. Puppies, senior dogs, and immunocompromised dogs are at higher risk for complications.

Effective Home Remedies for Kennel Cough

1. Honey for Soothing the Throat

Raw, unprocessed honey is one of the most effective natural remedies for kennel cough. Its antibacterial properties can help fight infection while coating and soothing the throat. Kennel Cough Home Remedies.

How to use:

• Give 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of honey (depending on dog size) 2-3 times daily
• Mix with warm water for easier administration
• Best given about 30 minutes before meals

Tip: Manuka honey has enhanced antibacterial properties but regular raw honey works well too. Never give honey to puppies under 1 year old. Kennel Cough Home Remedies

2. Steam Therapy

Steam helps loosen mucus and soothe irritated airways, similar to how it helps humans with coughs.

How to use:

• Run a hot shower and sit with your dog in the steamy bathroom for 10-15 minutes
• Repeat 2-3 times daily
• Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to the shower floor (not directly on dog)

3. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has antiviral and antibacterial properties that may help fight the infection causing kennel cough. Kennel Cough Home Remedies

How to use:

• Give 1/4 to 1 teaspoon (depending on size) of virgin coconut oil daily
• Can be mixed with food or given directly
• Also helps boost the immune system

4. Bone Broth

Nutrient-rich bone broth provides hydration and supports immune function while being easy on a sore throat. Kennel Cough Home Remedies

How to use:

• Offer warm (not hot) bone broth as a drink or over food
• Homemade is best, but look for low-sodium, onion-free commercial versions
• Add a pinch of turmeric for extra anti-inflammatory benefits

5. Herbal Remedies

Several herbs can help support respiratory health and soothe coughs: Kennel Cough Home Remedies.

• Marshmallow root: Soothes irritated mucous membranes (make as tea and add to food)
• Licorice root: Natural anti-inflammatory (use in moderation, not for dogs with heart conditions)
• Thyme: Natural antiseptic properties (add fresh to food or make a weak tea)
• Slippery elm: Coats and soothes the throat (available in powder form)

Supportive Care Measures

In addition to specific remedies, these general care tips can help your dog recover:

1. Rest and Reduced Activity

Limit exercise and excitement which can trigger coughing fits. Use a harness instead of a collar to reduce throat irritation.

2. Hydration

Ensure fresh water is always available. Add warm water or broth to food to increase fluid intake.

3. Humidification

Run a humidifier near your dog’s resting area, especially in dry climates or during winter.

4. Immune Support

Boost your dog’s immune system with:

• Probiotics (especially important if your dog has been on antibiotics)
• Vitamin C (small doses, as dogs produce their own)
• Quality, easily digestible food

When to See a Veterinarian

Home remedies are appropriate for mild cases, but professional care is needed if:

• Symptoms persist more than 7-10 days
• Your dog stops eating or drinking
• You notice difficulty breathing or blue-tinged gums
• Cough produces mucus or blood
• Your dog seems excessively lethargic
• Fever develops (normal dog temperature is 101-102.5°F)

Preventing Kennel Cough

While not always preventable, these measures can reduce risk:

• Vaccination (especially if your dog is boarded or goes to dog parks)
• Avoid crowded dog areas during outbreaks
• Maintain good overall health with proper nutrition and exercise
• Reduce stress which can weaken the immune system

Final Tip: Kennel cough is highly contagious. Isolate affected dogs from others for at least 2 weeks after symptoms resolve, and disinfect shared items with a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 32 parts water).

While these home remedies can provide relief, always consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure about your dog’s condition. With proper care, most dogs recover from kennel cough within 1-3 weeks. Kennel Cough Home Remedies