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My puppy has kennel cough with discharge. What treatment is best?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Male | unneutered | 6 months and 22 days old | 62 lbs

Our dog Alfie was boarded last weekend and now has kennel cough. He doesn't cough much but can hear the mucus in his throat. He has had a lot of yellow discharge mostly after sleep in his eyes which doc told us to give Benadryl. Also, yellow/green mucus is now draining from his nose. He has been eating but is tired. He is a 62 lb. otherwise very healthy 6 mo. old golden retriever. Not sure about treatment? It is Sunday tomorrow.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 12th, 2017

Alfie is displaying classic signs of an upper respiratory infection (aka kennel cough). These can often be due to a viral infection, so that is likely why the vet has prescribed the benadryl; they are treating conservatively. The benadryl will help make Alfie feel better, but will also make him tired.

However, it appears the infection has gotten worse and I would be prescribing antibiotics at this time.

They do tend to feel crummy (much like we do when we have a cold), but rest assured, this is not an emergency and no need to rush off to the emergency vet.

You can see your vet at a regular appointment time in the next day or two and they will advise on additional medication.

I hope that helps and Alfie feels better soon.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA
Veterinarian
Poor Alfie. Since he is young, lethargic, and having so much discharge from his nose and eyes I would recommend to see your vet for an exam and probably antibiotics. Puppies are more prone to pneumonia from kennel cough than adults so I recommend treatment to hopefully prevent it from progressing to pneumonia. If he is still eating then it could probably wait until Monday but keep a close eye on him. I hope this helps.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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