If your dog has a dry, harsh cough that sounds like a goose honk, it’s very understandable to worry about kennel cough. While kennel cough is a common cause, it’s not the only one—and some other conditions can sound almost identical but require different care.
This guide explains what a honking cough means, how to tell kennel cough from other problems, and when you should see a vet.
What a “Honking” Cough Sounds Like
Owners often describe it as:
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A loud “honk” or “hacking” sound
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Dry, repetitive coughing
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Worse with excitement or pulling on the leash
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Sometimes followed by gagging or retching
👉 The sound is very distinctive—and important.
Is It Kennel Cough?
Kennel Cough (Infectious Tracheobronchitis)
✅ Very common
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Highly contagious
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Often caught at boarding, grooming, dog parks, or vet clinics
Typical signs:
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Sudden onset honking cough
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Dog otherwise feels okay
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Normal appetite and energy
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Little to no fever
Most mild cases improve in 1–3 weeks.
Other Causes That Sound Like Kennel Cough
1. Tracheal Collapse
Common in small breeds.
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Chronic or recurring honking cough
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Worse with excitement or pressure on the neck
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Often lifelong and progressive
2. Heart Disease
⚠️ More common in senior dogs.
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Coughing at night or after rest
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Exercise intolerance
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Fast breathing
3. Chronic Bronchitis
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Persistent cough lasting months
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Often worsens with cold air or exercise
4. Foreign Material or Irritation
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Grass, dust, smoke
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Sudden coughing fits
5. Pneumonia (More Serious)
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Wet or productive cough
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Lethargy
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Fever
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Reduced appetite
When It’s Likely Kennel Cough
✔ Sudden cough
✔ Goose-honk sound
✔ Dog otherwise acting normal
✔ Recent contact with other dogs
When You Should See the Vet
🚨 Call or visit your vet if your dog:
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Coughs longer than 7–10 days
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Has worsening cough
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Becomes lethargic or won’t eat
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Has fever or nasal discharge
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Is a puppy, senior, or immune-compromised
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Has trouble breathing or blue/pale gums
What You Can Do at Home (If Mild & Vet-Approved)
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Rest and limit excitement
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Switch from collar to harness
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Use a humidifier
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Avoid smoke or strong odors
❌ Do NOT give human cough medicine unless directed by a vet.
Is Kennel Cough Dangerous?
For most healthy adult dogs:
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Usually mild
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Self-limiting
But for puppies, seniors, and dogs with other illnesses, it can become serious.
Prevention Tips
✔ Bordetella vaccination (doesn’t prevent all cases, but reduces severity)
✔ Avoid dog-dense environments during outbreaks
✔ Keep coughing dogs isolated
Final Takeaway
A honking cough often is kennel cough—but not always. Because other conditions can sound the same, especially tracheal collapse or heart disease, monitor closely and involve your vet if symptoms persist or worsen.
🐾 That “goose honk” is your dog’s airway asking for attention—listen early.