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My dog has kennel cough, still coughing after human cough syrup?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 15 lbs

I think my dog has kennel cough and i gave her 5ml of children's robutissin and she is still cough and gagging.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 16th, 2017

Oh no, poor Rosie! I would not give her any more Robitussin, as too much is not safe for dogs. Kennel cough is a self limiting disease that last three to four weeks, and while medications can help with the symptoms, they will not completely prevent the symptoms of it. I would have Rosie seen by a vet, who can prescribe medications are safe to give her. There are some things you can do for her at home. Any dog with kennel cough should be isolated for at least two weeks, possibly longer depending on the severity of the infection. Keep her in a well-humidified area, and use a harness instead of a collar to minimize coughing. Rest her for at least seven days to minimize irritation of the airways caused by excessive coughing. You can bring Rosie into the bathroom with you while you have a shower, as the steam may help with the respiratory irritation. I recommend having her seen by a vet tomorrow.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on May 1st, 2017
Typically kennel cough is a self limiting infection, but vets will not give vaccines unless a dog is totally healthy. Bea's vaccines may need to be delayed a few weeks to allow her to heal from the kennel cough if she has it. I would have her seen by a vet sooner than week, however. There is no cure for kennel cough, but her symptoms can be managed medically and these medications can help give her some relief while she is recovering. There are some things you can do at home for her as well. Any dog with kennel cough should be isolated for at least two weeks, possibly longer depending on the severity of the infection. Keep her in a well-humidified area, and use a harness instead of a collar to minimize coughing. I would rest her for at least seven days to minimize irritation of the airways caused by excessive coughing. You can also bring Bea into the bathroom with you while you have a shower, as the steam may help with the respiratory irritation, or you can put her in a room with a humidifier. I would see if the vet can see you sooner than next week to discuss medication use for her symptoms. Good luck, I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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