If your dog started coughing this winter, you are not alone, we get a lot of calls about this every year. Cold weather, heaters, dry indoor air, and holiday boarding all show up at the same time, and suddenly everyone is worried their dog “caught something.”

Sometimes the cough is kennel cough (a contagious infection).
 Other times, it’s simply the dog’s throat reacting to dry or cold air,  just like humans who start clearing their throat more once the heat turns on.

So how can you tell the difference? Here’s a simple breakdown.

What is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough is a contagious respiratory infection dogs can catch from other dogs in shared environments, boarding, daycare, dog parks, grooming, or training classes.

Typical signs:

  • A dry, honking or hacking cough that comes in bursts
  • Gagging or retching after coughing
  • Mild runny nose or watery eyes
  • Dog still acts normal otherwise (eating, playing, wagging)

It usually sounds like the dog is trying to clear something stuck in their throat.

Most healthy dogs recover with rest and vet guidance if needed, but puppies, seniors, and dogs with weak immunity need closer monitoring.

What is Cold Air / Dry Air Throat Irritation?

Not all winter coughing is an infection. Many dogs get a cough or throat irritation because of:

  • Breathing in very cold air outdoors
  • Dry indoor heat (forced heating dries their airway)
  • Dust or air changes during holiday house cleaning
  • Pulling on the leash in cold weather (pressure on trachea)

Typical signs of irritation:

  • Occasional coughing, not long coughing fits
  • Cough often happens after a walk in the cold or first thing indoors
  • No nasal discharge, no gagging, no lethargy
  • Improves once inside or after drinking water

This is more like the “dry throat” humans get in winter, uncomfortable, but not contagious.

Quick Comparison

Feature Kennel Cough Cold / Dry Air Irritation
Cause Virus or bacteria Temperature & dry air
Contagious Yes No
Cough sound Persistent, honking Occasional, mild
Other dogs at risk Yes No
Vet required? Sometimes Usually no

When to Call a Vet

Contact your vet if your dog…

  • Stops eating or drinking
  • Has breathing difficulty
  • Acts weak or unusually tired
  • Has coughing that persists more than a week
  • Is a puppy, senior, or has known respiratory issues

Better to call early than wait too long.

Can Dogs Still Board or Attend Daycare If They’re Coughing?

If it’s kennel cough — no. They must stay home until cleared, to protect others.
 If it’s just dry-air irritation — boarding is usually fine, but mention it to the facility so they can monitor.

How New Inn Kennels Handles Winter Cough Concerns

At New Inn Kennels, we:

  • Require Bordetella and core vaccines
  • Monitor dogs for coughing during stay
  • Isolate and notify if symptoms are observed
  • Maintain sanitized, well-ventilated spaces
  • Educate parents on when to rest their dog at home

Our goal isn’t to pretend exposure never happens, it’s to reduce risk and respond responsibly when it does.

Because winter should be cozy, safe, and stress-free, for both you and your dog.