Kennel Cough in Dogs: Causes Symptoms & Treatments

Kennel cough is a highly contagious illness that occurs in dogs, particularly if they've spent a lot of time in close quarters, such as in boarding kennels, doggy daycares, or dog shows. While you can immunize your dog against kennel cough, it's not included in a dog's primary vaccination course or in its annual boosters. 

Here, we explain what causes kennel cough, the signs your dog might have it, and treatment and vaccination options.

Kennel cough (also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis or canine infectious respiratory disease) is a respiratory infection that causes a hacking cough in dogs.

It's a highly contagious infection that spreads rapidly among dogs spending time in close quarters, such as dog boarding kennels, doggy daycare centres, dog shows, and more.  

While unpleasant, Kennel cough is not typically dangerous to healthy dogs, and many can recover without needing treatment.

However, depending on the bacteria or virus that caused it, the infection can lead to pneumonia and other health complications for puppies, elderly dogs, and those with pre-existing conditions.   

As with human respiratory infections, several bacteria can cause kennel cough in dogs, the most common of which is Bordetella bronchiseptica. It might also be caused by parainfluenza or canine adenovirus type 2 (CAV-2), although these are less common. It's important to know that while any of these mentioned bacteria can cause kennel cough, it is possible for your dog to be infected by more than one simultaneously. This is why speaking with your vet as soon as possible when you notice signs of kennel cough is essential to understanding the extent of the infection. 

As the name suggests, Kennel cough is most commonly contracted in places like dog boarding kennels where multiple dogs are kept in the same quarters. Since the infection is airborne, kennel cough can easily pass on to dogs in the same space, and with an incubation period of 2-14 days, not all dogs will show symptoms at the same rate, while others may be carriers. Depending on the time your dog spends in kennels or other kennel cough hotspots, your dog may not show symptoms until they're home, all the while letting the infection spread. The bacteria that causes kennel cough may also be passed from contaminated toys, bowls, or other shared objects, increasing the chances of infection to other dogs. 

The most common kennel symptom of kennel cough in dogs is a loud, hacking cough that may sound like something is stuck in their throat. This cough may be dry or have some mucus, which your dog will likely swallow after coughing it up. While otherwise healthy dogs may only show coughing symptoms, puppies, the elderly, or dogs with existing health conditions may show the following symptoms of kennel cough:   

• Lack of energy  
• Lack of appetite  
• High temperature (fever)  

Remember, some dogs may not show any symptoms of the infection but could still be carriers.  If you have recently brought your dog back from kennels and noticed symptoms of Kennel Cough, it's important to keep them away from other dogs in the home and while in public to lessen the spread. It's also important to thoroughly clean any shared objects, such as water bowls, beds, and toys, to kill off any bacteria that might have been transferred. 

Even if your dog stops showing symptoms of kennel cough, you should keep them separated for another two weeks to ensure the infection has passed.

Many dogs who experience kennel cough will stop exhibiting symptoms after 1-3 weeks, but they should still be separated after the symptoms stop to ensure the infection is not passed on.  For more severe infections, such as in puppies or elderly dogs, the infection can last longer or even progress to pneumonia, which can be life-threatening.    

If your dog has kennel cough, you must speak with your vet as soon as possible. While many dogs can recover well with plenty of rest and fluids, others may require treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs or cough suppressants, which are only available with a vet's prescription.   

If you're concerned about your dog contracting kennel cough while staying in boarding or just while they're out and about, then you're in luck. There is a vaccine for kennel cough, although it is not included in your dog's initial vaccination shots or annual boosters.

If you want to vaccinate your dog for kennel cough, speak with your vet about the Bordetella vaccine when you book their next booster shot, and they will be able to tell you if the vaccination suits your dog. Each vaccination lasts 12 months and may be added to your dog's yearly booster at your veterinarian's discretion.   

It's important to note that the vaccine does not guarantee that your dog will not contract the virus, but it significantly reduces the chances of infection and lessens your dog's symptoms. Some establishments that house many dogs at one time, such as doggy daycare centres or boarding kennels, may require your dog to be vaccinated against kennel cough before they can stay there. More information about dog vaccinations can be found in our guide. 

As with all medications, the Kennel Cough vaccine has some potential side effects. These side effects tend to be mild and stop on their own, but if you are concerned about your dog after having the vaccination, contact your vet for advice.   

The most common side effects of the Bordetella vaccine for dogs include:   

• Lethargy or discomfort   
• Lumps or bumps near the injection site  
• Sneezing, runny nose, and other cold-like symptoms

Most dogs who have had the Bordetella vaccine will recover from any adverse reactions within 1-2 days. If they continue to have side effects after this time, contact your vet for advice.   

Some studies suggest that cases of kennel cough surpass 65,000 every year, making it one of the most common infectious diseases in dogs. While this may be concerning, it's important to remember that your dog catching kennel cough is not necessarily serious. If you suspect your dog has contracted kennel cough, call your vet as soon as possible for advice, especially if your dog is a puppy or has any preexisting conditions. 

If you’re planning to go away and board your dog in kennels, adhere to the centre’s vaccination policy and ensure they’ve been treated for fleas and worms before staying. You can browse our great range of dog flea and worming treatments from some of the top brands in the industry below. 

This post is an opinion and should only be used as a guide. You should thoroughly discuss any change to your pet’s care or lifestyle with your vet before starting any program or treatment.