Honking Cough? It Could Be Kennel Cough
Coughing or Honking? It Could Be Kennel Cough
Author - Jenn Newark, Pet Grocer
(Shopping and Podcast links at the end!)
Hello dear readers! Spring is finally here, and with it comes the not-so-fun arrival of kennel cough season. You’ve been asking how to help your dogs avoid catching it, and what to do if they do come down with it. Let’s get into it.
What Is Kennel Cough?
Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory condition in dogs—think of it as the canine version of a cold. The most common symptom? A persistent, dry, hacking cough that sounds like your dog’s trying to clear something from their throat. Some dogs I’ve heard with kennel cough actually sound like a honking goose.
Other symptoms can include sneezing, a runny nose, low energy, and a mild fever. In more severe cases, there’s thick nasal discharge that’s not a pretty colour. But for most dogs, it’s not dangerous and clears up in a week or two.
Of course, like with humans, dogs with weaker immune systems—puppies, seniors, or those with pre-existing health issues—may need a little extra help.
Why Kennel Cough Spikes in Spring
Here in Ontario, we often see kennel cough re-emerge in the spring. As the weather warms up, our dogs start getting out more—dog parks, grooming salons, training classes, daycare, you name it. Anywhere dogs mingle, the risk goes up.
The mild and damp spring weather doesn’t help either—it can irritate the respiratory tract and make dogs more vulnerable as it stirs up the leaf mould and other irritants that were buried under snow. The main culprits behind kennel cough are Bordetella bronchiseptica (a bacteria) and canine parainfluenza virus, though other pathogens can be involved too. It's a bit like how human colds can come from a bunch of different viruses.
Kennel cough spreads through airborne droplets from coughing, barking, or even just breathing. It can also stick to surfaces like water bowls and toys or your neighbour's fence. Once it’s in a group of dogs, it tends to move fast.
A couple of years ago, we had a strain going through our area that spread backyard to backyard—even between dogs that never had direct contact. It really can move like dominos falling row after row, all through the air.
What About the Bordetella Vaccine?
Spring is when you might hear your vet mention the Bordetella vaccine. Like the flu shot for humans, it’s not a guarantee. Some dogs may still get sick, even if vaccinated. And the vaccine itself can shed the virus, meaning your dog could contract it from the vaccine and possibly pass it on to other dogs. If you opt for it, we recommend keeping your dog home for at least a week after they’re vaccinated.
If your dog has any underlying health issues, think twice! Vaccine manufacturers state clearly that their products are not intended for immune-compromised dogs. Talk to your vet and make informed decisions, especially when injectable ingredients with as many side effects as vaccines have are involved.
Natural Remedies That Work
If your dog does catch kennel cough, don’t panic. In mild cases, rest and supportive care may be all they need. Your vet might suggest cough suppressants or antibiotics for bacterial infections, but for many pet parents who prefer a natural approach, there are effective alternatives!
At Pet Grocer, we often recommend two trusted remedies:
1. Manuka Honey
This isn’t your regular grocery store honey. Manuka honey, sourced from New Zealand, is known for its antibacterial, antiviral, anti fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. It soothes the throat and helps fight infection.
Give it to your dog like a syrupy paste:
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Under 20 lbs: ¼–½ tsp, 1–2x/day
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20–60 lbs: 1 tsp, 1–2x/day
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60+ lbs: 2 tsp, 1–2x/day
Mix it with room-temperature water and let them lick it up from a plate. Don't use hot water to mix this, you want all the power of the honey to be fully active.
Note: Don’t give to puppies (botulism risk) or diabetic dogs (sugar content).
Not all manuka honey is the same. Most grocery store brand jars are diluted with other honeys and still labeled manuka. Read your labels carefully. The New Zealand government regulates manuka honey to prove authenticity and Pet Grocer carries Wedderspoon, a trusted, regulated brand I use for both my dogs and my family. We use it in tea or straight off the spoon if we have an illness, and directly on our bodies for cuts, burns, and abrasions. I've healed second degree burns at home on a family member, and a surgical incision that simply would not stay sewn together on one of my boxers years ago. Available in store and online for shipping across Canada at PetGrocer.ca.
2. Olive Leaf Powder
This lesser-known powerhouse has antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties. It’s effective against both viruses and bacteria. We carry organic, human-grade olive leaf powder that you can mix into your dog’s food, preferably once a day at breakfast, when needed.
We also use it as a tea for the humans at home when we’re feeling under the weather. You’ll find dosage info on the label of the powder we source and package ourselves.
Together, manuka honey and olive leaf powder offer natural relief and immune support—for pets and humans alike.
Supporting Your Dog's Recovery
Supportive care goes a long way. Here’s what to do:
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Keep your dog warm and comfortable
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Use a humidifier to ease throat irritation
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Avoid collar pressure - Switch from collar to harness to reduce pressure on their sensitive trachea
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Minimize contact with other dogs for 1–2 weeks
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Try Adored Beast’s Your Go 2 for calming pain support
And always trust your instincts. If your dog’s cough gets worse, they stop eating, become lethargic, or have trouble breathing, call your vet right away. Be sure to mention the possibility of a contagious cough—some vets will examine your dog outside to reduce the risk of spreading it inside the clinic. We appreciate those extra precautions!
Prevention Tips
The best medicine is prevention. Help your dog's immune system stay resilient year-round:
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Use rotational supplements like probiotics and medicinal mushrooms
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Stay active with regular walks and mental stimulation
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Keep tabs on local outbreaks (many boarding facilities and Facebook groups will share updates)
Natural remedies are often as effective, and possibly more effective, than pharmaceuticals without the harsh side effects. Simple, time-tested trusted ingredients like manuka honey and olive leaf can do a lot more than you think!
We hope this helps you feel more confident navigating kennel cough season with care and calm. If you found this helpful, share it with a fellow dog parent—and be sure to browse Pet Grocer for more holistic support for your pets.
Listen to our podcast all about Kennel Cough and how to tackle it holistically HERE
SHOPPING LINKS:
Olive Leaf Powder, Organic, Human Grade
May 2025