When your dog starts coughing, it can be alarming. While there are several possible causes, one of the most common is kennel cough. It’s a highly contagious respiratory condition that affects dogs of all ages.
Let’s break down what you need to know, what symptoms to watch for, and how you can help your dog recover and stay protected.
What Is Kennel Cough in Dogs?
Kennel cough is also known as canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC). As mentioned earlier, it is a contagious respiratory infection that can affect all dogs, giving them a distinct and harsh hacking cough.
Essentially, it causes inflammation in the dog’s upper respiratory tract. You can compare it to a human cold. It’s mild in lots of cases, but it is still uncomfortable and can easily spread.
Once inhaled, the viruses and bacteria infect the lining of the trachea and bronchi. They damage the tiny hair-like structures called cilia, which normally help clear mucus and debris. This breakdown causes inflammation and irritation, which triggers the characteristic coughing.
The incubation period for this disease is around 2 to 14 days after exposure. During this time, affected dogs may not immediately show signs, but they can be carriers for the disease. This means that they can be contagious for up to 2 to 3 months.
What Causes Kennel Cough in Dogs?
Kennel cough is caused by a tag team of viruses and bacteria that can affect your dog’s respiratory system.
Bordetella bronchiseptica. A bacterium that damages the lining of the respiratory tract, leading to a dry, hacking cough.
Canine parainfluenza virus. A virus that weakens immune defenses, making it easier for bacteria to cause infection.
Canine adenovirus type 2. CAV-2 causes inflammation in the respiratory tract, producing cough and eye discharge.
Canine coronavirus (respiratory). Contributes to mild respiratory signs when combined with other pathogens.
Sometimes, one infection is enough to trigger symptoms. At other times, it’s a combination that makes recovery even more complicated.
How Can Dogs Catch Kennel Cough?
Kennel cough spreads rapidly in environments where dogs can come into close contact with other animals. Some other routes of transmission include:
Direct Contact
Dogs can easily transmit kennel cough through interactions like licking, sniffing, or playing together. It’s commonly transmitted in places where dogs gather, such as unhygienic kennels, dog parks, daycares, and grooming salons.
Respiratory Droplets
A sick dog can pass on the infection to healthy dogs simply by sneezing or coughing. The tiny droplets that come flying out of an infected dog's nose or mouth contain kennel cough viruses or bacteria. These droplets disperse in the surrounding air and can stay up to 30 minutes.
Shared Items
An infected dog sharing items, such as bowls, leashes, toys, grooming tools, or bedding, with other dogs can quickly spread kennel cough. Plus, humans who have interacted with infected dogs can also be carriers of the disease through their hands or items.
Poor Ventilation
Enclosed areas with poor ventilation can facilitate the rapid spread of kennel cough infection. These places can be kennels, daycares, grooming salons, or even your home if you’re caring for multiple dogs.
Kennel Cough Symptoms in Dogs
Kennel cough can cause a lot of problems for affected dogs. These include:
Persistent Cough. A dog with kennel cough will exhibit a dry, honking cough. However, it tends to be milder and less frequent in vaccinated dogs. You might notice it more after they exercise, get excited, or pull on the leash.
Occasional Gagging. After coughing, your dog may gag or retch, almost like they are trying to clear something from their throat. This can be alarming, but it’s a common symptom of kennel cough and is usually not a cause for concern.
Runny Nose. A slight nasal discharge may appear, but it’s often clear and not too noticeable. Vaccinated dogs against kennel cough usually do not experience a severe runny nose or mucus. Unvaccinated dogs may have these symptoms.
Slight Fatigue and Loss of Appetite. Some may feel more tired than usual if they get kennel cough. They might take longer naps or seem less energetic during playtime. Plus, others can have a reduced appetite.
Sneezing. Some dogs may sneeze occasionally, especially in the early stages of kennel cough. It’s not constant, but it could be a sign that their body is trying to fight off the infection.
Does Kennel Cough Have Complications?
Most cases are mild and resolve within one to three weeks. However, puppies, senior dogs, or those with underlying health conditions are at higher risk of complications like:
Pneumonia
Bronchitis
Chronic cough
Secondary infections
How Do Veterinarians Diagnose Kennel Cough?
When it comes to diagnosing this disease, we do a full workup. Here’s how it’ll go.
Physical Examination
We begin with a hands-on exam, checking for the classic signs of kennel cough, especially the telltale “honking” cough. Our vets will ask you about your dog’s lifestyle, recent activities, and environment.
This can include visits to public dog spaces, contact with other dogs, and other symptoms you observed.
Auscultation
We use a stethoscope to listen to your dog's chest and airways. Through this, we can check for signs of abnormal breathing, fluid buildup, or wheezing. These clues help distinguish between mild kennel cough and more serious issues, such as bronchitis or pneumonia.
Chest X-Rays
If the cough is persistent, worsening, or accompanied by other symptoms, then we can do a chest X-ray to assess the lungs’ condition and find other clues. This tool is also helpful to rule out other conditions, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, or a collapsed trachea.
Throat Swabs and Bacterial Culture
A throat or nasal swab may be collected to check for bacteria like Bordetella bronchiseptica. This works by growing the sample in our in-house laboratory to confirm the presence of bacteria. By doing so, we can determine the most appropriate antibiotics for the condition.
PCR Testing
PCR tests are often used to identify viral or bacterial genetic material in respiratory samples quickly. This method is highly sensitive and can pinpoint multiple pathogens in one go. PCR testing is the most valuable in severe cases.
Differential Diagnosis
Kennel cough symptoms can resemble those of several other respiratory illnesses. Based on our observations, we’ll conduct specific tests to diagnose other conditions with similar symptoms.
How Do Vets Treat Kennel Cough in Dogs?
For mild cases, a few home remedies will be a big help in your dog’s recovery. But in severe cases, we may step in with vet-approved cough suppressants. These don’t cure the infection, but they do make life more comfortable, especially if your dog can’t sleep or eat from all the hacking.
To target the main cause, we’ll prescribe the appropriate antimicrobials, which are usually antibiotics in this case. The specific ones will be determined during the diagnostic process. In some cases, we may need to administer a mild pain reliever.
When the condition continues to worsen, we will recommend hospitalization. Here, your dog will be given supportive care alongside its main treatment. This can involve IV fluids, oxygen therapy, and inhalation treatments.
How to Cure Kennel Cough Using Home Remedies?
While kennel cough can’t be cured with home remedies, they can help your dog recover. Combine these effective tips with your dog’s main treatment plan.
Let them rest. Too much activity can make things worse. Skip the beach, keep it calm and cool. Let your dog rest comfortably at home.
Moisturize the air. A humidifier near your dog’s bed can ease breathing. If you don’t have one, try wet towels or a bowl of water near the AC vent.
Steam helps. Let your pup sit in a steamy bathroom for 10 minutes. This soothes the airways.
Hydration is key. Offer cool, fresh water often. Add low-sodium broth if they’re not drinking enough.
Feed light, nutritious meals. Illness and heat dull appetites. Think boiled chicken, rice, or vet-approved wet food.
Ditch the collar. Use a harness during walks and morning or evening strolls. These are better for avoiding pressure around the throat.
Watch the air. Skip incense, perfumes, or harsh cleaners. Poor ventilation in small flats can worsen coughing.
Can I Give My Dog Honey for Kennel Cough?
Honey can be good to help soothe your dog’s throat, but we advise consulting with us first before giving it. Generally, one teaspoon to one tablespoon of honey can be given 2 to 3 times a day, depending on your dog’s size. You can mix it with their food or serve it up in some warm water.
How Long Does Kennel Cough Last?
Affected dogs can generally expect to recover within 1 to 3 weeks. Some cases can also resolve for as long as 6 weeks, especially in dogs with other health issues. Recovery times will vary based on the dog’s condition and the treatment methods in place.
The Importance of Vaccinating Against Kennel Cough
Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to protect your dog from kennel cough, especially if they spend time around other dogs at parks, daycares, or boarding facilities.
There are three types of kennel cough vaccines, each with its own benefits:
Intranasal. This is sprayed into your dog’s nose and offers protection within 48 to 72 hours. It’s a great option if quick immunity is needed.
Injectable. Administered through a shot. It takes longer to build immunity, but it is often used for dogs who dislike nasal sprays.
Oral. A newer option that’s becoming popular for its ease of use, especially in dogs who are anxious during vet visits.
Most dogs handle the vaccine very well. Some may experience slight lethargy, loss of appetite, or soreness.
The kennel cough vaccine is administered annually. However, if your dog frequently socializes with others or is boarded often, we may recommend a booster every six months. If you need help starting your dog’s vaccination plan, our vets are ready to assist.
Can a Vaccinated Dog Get Kennel Cough?
Yes, while the vaccine is effective against kennel cough, it doesn’t cover all the strains. However, it does significantly minimize the effects and symptoms that affected dogs experience. Here's a quick side-by-side to help paint the picture:
Symptom | Vaccinated Dog | Unvaccinated Dog |
|---|---|---|
Coughing | Mild, dry, occasional; triggered by activity | Persistent, honking, frequent |
Gagging or Retching | Infrequent, mild | More frequent and intense |
Sneezing | Rare or brief | More frequent and may accompany nasal discharge |
Runny Nose | Clear and subtle | Thick discharge; possible yellow/green mucus |
Fatigue | Slightly more tired than usual | Noticeable lethargy; less playful or active |
Appetite | Normal | May be reduced due to discomfort |
Fever | Rare | More likely, especially with complications |
Recovery Time | 5-10 days | 10-21 days or longer if untreated |
How to Prevent Kennel Cough in Dogs?
Even though kennel cough spreads easily, there are simple steps you can take to help protect your dog:
Vaccinate Your Dog
Vaccinating your dog against kennel cough is an effective preventive measure. It also allows you to protect other dogs within the community.
Improve Your Dog's Living Conditions
Avoid unhygienic grooming salons, boarding facilities, and daycares. Research on the most reputable ones in your area, and make sure to clean your home as well.
Support Your Dog’s Immune System
Through a healthy diet, regular exercise, and low-stress environments, you can strengthen your dog’s defenses. Plus, regular grooming should be observed.
“The key to keeping your best friendly healthy and happy is by knowing the possible threats.”
- Dr. Lidija Krvavac
Final Thoughts
Kennel cough might sound alarming, but most dogs bounce back quickly with the proper care, rest, and a little patience. Staying up to date on vaccinations, practicing good hygiene, and avoiding high-risk environments during outbreaks can go a long way in keeping your dog protected.
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