Kennel Cough in Dogs: What You Need to Know — Especially if You Own a Doberman

Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is one of the most common respiratory illnesses seen in dogs — especially those that frequent kennels, dog parks, boarding facilities, or any environment where dogs mix closely. While often considered a “mild” illness, kennel cough can sometimes spiral into serious conditions like pneumonia or even hide deeper health issues, especially in Dobermans, who are predisposed to heart disease.

What Is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough is an infectious respiratory disease that spreads rapidly in areas where dogs are in close proximity. It is typically caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria, most commonly Bordetella bronchiseptica paired with canine parainfluenza virus or adenovirus.

Kennel cough is highly contagious and spreads through airborne droplets, shared water bowls, toys, or even from sniffing where another dog coughed or sneezed.

Common Symptoms of Kennel Cough

Symptoms usually begin 3–10 days after exposure and may include:

• A dry, hacking cough that sounds like your dog is choking
• Retching or gagging, especially after excitement or exercise
• Sneezing and nasal discharge
• Lethargy
• Mild fever
• Loss of appetite in more severe cases

The classic sign? A goose-honk sounding cough that can come in fits, especially when pressure is applied to the neck (like from a collar).

When Kennel Cough Becomes Dangerous

Most healthy dogs recover from kennel cough within one to three weeks with rest and supportive care. However, in some dogs, especially puppies, seniors, or immunocompromised dogs, kennel cough can lead to secondary infections or develop into pneumonia.

Warning signs it may be turning into something more serious:

• Coughing worsens or becomes wet
• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• High fever
• Severe lethargy
• Refusal to eat or drink

If these symptoms appear, it’s time to see the vet right away.

Dobermans: Why You Need to Be Extra Cautious

For Doberman owners, kennel cough symptoms may not just be a respiratory issue — they could be masking signs of heart disease, especially Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), which is prevalent in the breed.

Coughing in Dobermans can be a symptom of a failing heart. In fact, the first sign of DCM in many dogs is a persistent, unexplained cough. Because kennel cough is so common and recognizable, it’s easy to misattribute the symptom to something “mild” — but if your Doberman is coughing and it doesn’t improve quickly, don’t assume it’s kennel cough.

Yearly Holter Monitoring Is a Must

All Doberman owners should consider doing a Holter monitor test once a year, even if the dog seems healthy. This 24-hour ECG can detect abnormal heart rhythms long before clinical symptoms appear. If your Doberman is coughing, especially with no clear exposure to other dogs, cardiac evaluation should be your first step.

What to Do If You Suspect Kennel Cough

If your dog has mild symptoms and is otherwise acting normal, most vets will recommend monitoring at home instead of rushing into the clinic. Kennel cough is highly contagious, and many veterinary offices don’t want it brought into their lobby where it can spread to vulnerable patients.

Unless symptoms worsen, most vets recommend:

• Isolating your dog from others for 10–14 days
• Monitoring for signs of worsening (see above)
• Keeping your dog calm and well-rested

If symptoms persist past 7–10 days or worsen, contact your vet — they may prescribe antibiotics if a secondary infection is suspected or cough suppressants to ease your dog’s discomfort.

Homemade Supportive Care Tips

While kennel cough usually resolves on its own, here are some gentle, home-based ways to support recovery:

1. Steam Therapy

Bring your dog into the bathroom and close the door while you run a hot shower for 10 to 15 minutes to fill the room with warm, moist steam — but do not place your dog directly in the shower or expose them to hot water. This steam inhalation method creates a mini sauna-like environment, which can help loosen mucus in the airways, reduce throat irritation, and ease persistent coughing associated with kennel cough or other mild respiratory issues.

Make sure your dog is comfortable, supervised, and calm during the process, perhaps lying on a towel or blanket while they breathe in the steam. This simple home remedy can be done once or twice daily to provide soothing relief and support healing — especially when combined with rest and hydration.

2. Honey & Coconut Oil

Giving your dog a teaspoon of raw, unpasteurized honey can help soothe an irritated throat by coating the lining and reducing the intensity of coughing fits, particularly during the night or after excitement. Honey also has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a gentle and effective home remedy for mild respiratory irritation. For added benefit, you can mix in a small amount (about 1/2 teaspoon) of high-quality, organic coconut oil, which contains lauric acid — a compound known for its antiviral, antibacterial, and immune-boosting effects.

This combination not only provides comfort to your dog’s throat but also supports the immune system and may help speed up recovery. Always ensure your dog is not allergic to these ingredients.

3. Bone Broth

Warm bone broth is an excellent, highly nutritious option for dogs recovering from kennel cough or other illnesses, especially when their appetite is reduced. Rich in collagen, amino acids, and essential minerals, bone broth is not only easy to digest but also provides important nutrients that support the immune system, joint health, and gut function. The warm liquid encourages hydration, which is critical during respiratory illness, especially when dogs are not drinking enough water on their own. Its savory aroma and flavor can stimulate a dog’s appetite, making it ideal for picky eaters or dogs feeling under the weather.

You can serve it on its own, pour it over their regular kibble to make it more enticing, or freeze it into cubes for soothing, lickable treats. Just be sure to use homemade or dog-safe store-bought broth — free of onions, or excess sodium — as these ingredients can be harmful to dogs.

4. Rest, Rest, Rest

It’s important to avoid any form of strenuous exercise, rough play, or long walks while your dog is recovering from kennel cough, as physical exertion can place additional stress on the respiratory system and trigger or worsen coughing fits. Activities that elevate your dog’s heart rate or cause heavy breathing — such as running, chasing toys, or even getting overly excited — can irritate the already inflamed airways, making the cough more frequent and intense.

Instead, aim to keep your dog calm and relaxed indoors, offering quiet companionship, puzzle toys, or gentle enrichment that doesn’t involve physical activity. Providing a stress-free and restful environment helps your dog conserve energy for healing and reduces the risk of complications like bronchitis or pneumonia. Full recovery often depends on proper rest, so patience during this downtime is just as crucial as any other part of treatment.

5. Humidifier in the Room

Running a humidifier near your dog’s bed or resting area can significantly improve their comfort while recovering from kennel cough by adding moisture to the air, which helps to soothe dry, irritated airways and reduce the frequency and severity of coughing fits. Dry indoor air — especially in the winter months or in homes with central heating — can further inflame a dog’s already sensitive throat and bronchial passages, making recovery more difficult. By maintaining a consistent level of humidity, a humidifier can help loosen mucus, ease breathing, and promote a more restful sleep, which is essential for healing.

Make sure to use a cool-mist humidifier, keep it clean to prevent mold or bacteria buildup, and place it at a safe distance where your dog can benefit from the moisture without being overwhelmed by direct airflow. This simple addition to your home environment can make a noticeable difference in your dog’s recovery and overall respiratory comfort.

6. Vitamin C

While dogs naturally produce their own Vitamin C (unlike humans), during times of stress, illness, or infection, their bodies may not produce enough to meet increased demands. Supplementing with Vitamin C during a bout of kennel cough can offer some potential benefits:

Potential Benefits:

• Immune Support: Vitamin C can help boost the immune system, making it easier for the dog’s body to fight off infection.
• Antioxidant Effects: It combats free radicals and reduces oxidative stress caused by illness or inflammation.
• Anti-inflammatory Properties: May help reduce irritation in the respiratory tract.

If you choose to add Vitamin C to your dog’s routine during kennel cough, it’s essential to dose appropriately and monitor for side effects.

Recommended Dosage (General Guidelines):

• Small dogs: 125–250 mg per day
• Medium dogs: 250–500 mg per day
• Large dogs (like Dobermans): 500–1000 mg per day, split into two doses

Always start with a lower dose and gradually increase, as too much Vitamin C can cause diarrhea or gastrointestinal upset. Buffered or ester-C forms are gentler on the stomach.

Disclaimer: It is important to understand that there is a sever lack of properly conducted scientific studies in veterinary medicine regarding the effects and dosage of Vitamin C supplements. For example, Richard Pitcairn, DVM, “Dr. Pitcairn’s Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats.” suggests giving 100-500 milligrams (based on the dog’s size) of vitamin C to dogs that are exposed to unusually high amounts of pollutants. Cheryl Schwartz, DVM, “Four Paws, Five Directions: A Guide to Chinese Medicine for Cats and dogs.” Schwartz suggests giving vitamin C to dogs with respiratory conditions, such as kennel cough.

The study¹ from 2009 (link) have found no benefits of Vitamin C for healthy dogs, but slightly improved immunological parameters. The study from 2020² (link) provides a great overall overview and critique of existing studies and points out that for seve-illness there seem to be no correlation between Vitamin C concentration and outcomes. At the same time, to the date we have no reported adverse effects of Vitamin C supplements in dogs. There are some potential (from metabolic point of view) concerns for human patients with the history of calcium oxalate urinary calculi. However, there has been no studies or reports related to cats or dogs.

Important Notes:

• Vitamin C won’t cure kennel cough, but it can support recovery as part of a larger care plan that includes rest, hydration, and proper nutrition.
• Avoid giving human supplements with added sweeteners (like xylitol), flavorings, or dyes, which can be toxic to dogs.
• Always consult your veterinarian before starting any new supplement, especially if your dog is on medication or has pre-existing conditions like kidney issues or heart disease.

Doberman-Specific Tip:

Dobermans with heart concerns or sensitive digestive systems may need lower doses or a specific form of Vitamin C. Since they’re prone to Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), supporting overall immune health is important — but it should be done under vet guidance to avoid interfering with heart meds or causing digestive stress.

Always monitor your dog when giving any home remedy. If symptoms worsen or your dog becomes lethargic, stops eating, or struggles to breathe — get veterinary help immediately.

How to Prevent Kennel Cough

1. Vaccination

The Bordetella vaccine is commonly administered via injection, nasal spray, or oral dose. It’s often required by boarding facilities, groomers, and training centers.

• It does not prevent all cases, but can lessen severity and duration if your dog becomes infected.

Note: The vaccine doesn’t cover all causes of kennel cough, but it’s still your best line of defense — especially for social dogs.

You can read our post entirely dedicated to vaccination here.

2. Avoid High-Risk Places During Outbreaks

If you hear of kennel cough circulating in your area, avoid dog parks, daycare, and other group settings until things settle down.

3. Support a Strong Immune System

Good nutrition, reduced stress, and routine health checks help your dog fight off viruses more effectively.

Dobermans and Kennel Cough: Key Takeaways

• A Doberman coughing isn’t always simple kennel cough — heart disease could be the real culprit.
• Do not delay cardiac diagnostics if your Doberman has a persistent or unexplained cough.
• Kennel cough in any dog should be taken seriously, especially if symptoms worsen.
• Avoid exposing other dogs and call your vet before visiting if you suspect an infection.
• Support mild cases at home with rest, hydration, and a few natural remedies.
• Annual Holter monitor testing is crucial for the long-term heart health of Dobermans — cough or no cough.

Final Thoughts

Kennel cough is often benign, but it deserves attention — especially if you own a breed like the Doberman where coughing may be the tip of a much more dangerous iceberg. Always trust your instincts and get veterinary help if something doesn’t seem right.

By staying informed and proactive, you can protect your dog’s health, prevent spread to others, and catch serious issues early.

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace veterinary advice. If your dog shows signs of illness, consult your veterinarian promptly — especially if you own a Doberman, where symptoms like coughing may indicate heart disease.

References

1. Hesta, M et al. “The effect of vitamin C supplementation in healthy dogs on antioxidative capacity and immune parameters.” Journal of animal physiology and animal nutrition vol. 93,1 (2009): 26-34. doi:10.1111/j.1439-0396.2007.00774.x ↩︎
2. Gordon, Daniel S et al. “Vitamin C in Health and Disease: A Companion Animal Focus.” Topics in companion animal medicine vol. 39 (2020): 100432. doi:10.1016/j.tcam.2020.100432 ↩︎