Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis or canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC), is one of the most common respiratory illnesses affecting dogs. Its distinctive, persistent cough can be alarming for pet owners, but understanding the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention strategies can help you keep your dog safe and healthy.
What Is Kennel Cough ?
Kennel cough is a very contagious illness that affects a dog’s breathing. It is usually caused by a mix of viruses and bacteria. The most common germs that cause it are a bacteria called Bordetella bronchiseptica and viruses like canine parainfluenza and canine adenovirus. Sometimes, other germs can also play a role.
It’s called “kennel cough” because it spreads quickly in places where many dogs are close together—like kennels, dog daycares, grooming centers, dog parks, and animal shelters. But a dog doesn’t have to visit a kennel to catch it. Any dog can get kennel cough if they are exposed to the germs.
Causes and Transmission
Kennel cough is caused by a mix of infectious agents, with Bordetella bronchiseptica and canine parainfluenza virus being the primary culprits. These pathogens are transmitted through:
Airborne droplets: When an infected dog coughs or sneezes, it releases tiny droplets containing the infectious agents into the air, which other dogs can inhale.
Direct contact: Dogs can become infected by touching noses or sharing toys, food bowls, or water dishes with an infected dog.
Contaminated surfaces: The bacteria and viruses can survive on surfaces for hours or even days, allowing indirect transmission if a healthy dog comes into contact with a contaminated object.
Stress, poor ventilation, exposure to cold temperatures, and crowded conditions can increase a dog’s susceptibility to kennel cough.
Symptoms of Kennel Cough
The hallmark symptom of kennel cough is a persistent, forceful cough that often sounds like a honking goose or a choking noise. Other common symptoms include:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Wheezing
- Gagging or retching after coughing
- Mild lethargy
- Loss of appetite (in some cases)
- Low-grade fever (less common)
Most dogs remain alert and active, but puppies, older dogs, and those with weakened immune systems may experience more severe symptoms or complications such as pneumonia.
Diagnosis
Veterinarians typically diagnose kennel cough based on the dog’s history, clinical signs, and a physical examination. If your dog has been in contact with other dogs recently or has visited a high-risk environment, this can help support the diagnosis.
In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend additional tests, such as:
- Nasal swabs or tracheal washes for PCR testing or bacterial culture to identify the specific pathogen.
- Chest X-rays to rule out pneumonia or other underlying conditions, especially if symptoms are severe or persist beyond the expected recovery period.
Treatment
Most cases of kennel cough are mild and self-limiting, resolving within one to three weeks without specific treatment. However, supportive care and symptom management can help your dog feel more comfortable and recover more quickly:
Rest: Allow your dog to rest and avoid strenuous activity.
Hydration: Ensure your dog has access to fresh water and encourage drinking to prevent dehydration.
Humidification: Using a humidifier or letting your dog breathe in steam from a hot shower can help soothe an irritated throat and reduce coughing.
Soft, easily digestible food: If your dog has a reduced appetite, offer soft foods such as chicken and rice.
Cough suppressants: In some cases, your veterinarian may prescribe cough medication to help your dog rest, especially if the cough is severe or interferes with sleep.
Antibiotics: If there is evidence of a secondary bacterial infection, such as green or yellow nasal discharge, lethargy, or loss of appetite, your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline or amoxicillin/clavulanate).
Severe cases, especially in puppies or immunocompromised dogs, may require hospitalization for supportive care, including intravenous fluids and oxygen therapy.
Prevention
Preventing kennel cough is essential, especially for dogs that frequently interact with other dogs. The following strategies can help reduce the risk of infection:
Vaccination: The kennel cough vaccine, which targets Bordetella bronchiseptica and sometimes includes protection against canine parainfluenza and adenovirus, is highly recommended for dogs that board, attend daycare, or visit grooming salons. Vaccines are available as injections, nasal sprays, or oral formulations. Puppies should begin their vaccination series at 6–8 weeks of age, with boosters as recommended by your veterinarian.
Avoid high-risk environments: Limit your dog’s exposure to crowded or poorly ventilated areas where the risk of transmission is high.
Good hygiene: Regularly clean and disinfect your dog’s living area, toys, and food/water bowls. Wash your hands after handling other dogs or visiting public places.
Keep your dog healthy: A strong immune system can help protect your dog from infections. Provide a balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary check-ups.
Isolate sick dogs: If your dog shows signs of kennel cough, keep them away from other dogs to prevent the spread of infection.
Recovery and Management
Most dogs recover from kennel cough within 10–14 days, though some cases may take up to three weeks or longer, especially in older or immunocompromised dogs. During recovery:
Monitor your dog’s symptoms: Watch for signs of worsening illness, such as difficulty breathing, lethargy, or loss of appetite, and contact your veterinarian if these occur.
Limit activity: Avoid strenuous exercise until your dog has fully recovered.
Keep your dog isolated: Continue to keep your dog away from other dogs for at least two weeks after symptoms have resolved to prevent spreading the infection.
Supportive care: Continue to provide a comfortable environment, plenty of rest, and good nutrition.
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Complications
While most dogs recover from kennel cough without complications, some may develop more serious conditions, such as:
Pneumonia: This is more common in puppies, older dogs, or those with weakened immune systems. Signs include rapid breathing, difficulty breathing, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Prompt veterinary care is essential if these symptoms occur.
Chronic bronchitis: In rare cases, kennel cough can lead to chronic inflammation of the airways, especially in debilitated or elderly dogs.
Kennel Cough in Multi-Dog Households
If you have multiple dogs and one is diagnosed with kennel cough, it is important to:
- Isolate the infected dog: Keep them in a separate room and avoid sharing toys, bowls, or bedding.
- Monitor other dogs: Watch for signs of illness in other pets and contact your veterinarian if symptoms develop.
- Clean and disinfect: Thoroughly clean and disinfect all shared areas and items to reduce the risk of transmission.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is kennel cough contagious to humans?
No, kennel cough is not contagious to humans, but it spreads rapidly among dogs.
2. Can my dog get kennel cough more than one time ?
Yes, dogs can get kennel cough more than once, as it can be caused by different pathogens. Vaccination will help to reduce the risk of reinfection.
3. How long is kennel cough contagious?
Dogs are typically contagious for 10–14 days after symptoms appear, but some may shed the virus for longer, especially if not fully recovered.
4. Can my dog go outside if they have kennel cough disease ?
Your dog can go outside for short bathroom breaks, but avoid public areas and contact with other dogs until they have fully recovered and are no longer contagious.
Conclusion
Kennel cough is a common and very contagious illness that affects a dog’s breathing. Any dog can get it, but it spreads more easily in places where many dogs are together, like kennels or parks. Most dogs get better on their own, but seeing a vet and giving your dog the right care can help them feel better faster. The best way to protect your dog is through vaccination, keeping things clean, and staying away from crowded dog areas when possible. By knowing what causes kennel cough, what signs to look for, and how to prevent it, you can help keep your dog safe and healthy.