What is kennel cough in dogs?

A dog with a sad expression in a vet's office.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Kennel Cough

Kennel cough in dogs, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a common respiratory illness in dogs. Kennel cough is highly contagious and spreads quickly among dogs, especially in places like dog parks, kennels, and shelters.

Kennel cough results from a mix of viruses and bacteria, such as the canine parainfluenza virus and bordetella bronchiseptica. While it is usually not serious, it can be uncomfortable for affected dogs and may require treatment. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and prevention methods can help you keep your dog healthy and happy.

What Causes Kennel Cough?

A mix of viruses and bacteria that attack a dog's upper respiratory system cause kennel cough. The most common culprits are the canine parainfluenza virus and bordetella bronchiseptica. These pathogens can weaken the respiratory tract, leading to symptoms like a persistent dog coughing and a runny nose. Other contributing factors can include environmental irritants such as dust, smoke, and cold temperatures, which can exacerbate the condition.

We should note that kennel cough links to more than just dogs in tight spaces. It can also impact dogs in any setting where they meet other infected animals.

Symptoms of Kennel Cough

The symptoms of kennel cough can vary, but the most common signs include:

  • Persistent dog coughing, which may sound like a honking noise
  • Runny nose
  • Sneezing
  • Watery eyes
  • Loss of appetite
  • Lethargy

If you spot any of these symptoms in your dog, consulting your vet for a proper diagnosis is crucial. Kennel cough is not usually a serious illness. It can be more problematic for young puppies, older dogs, or those with weak immune systems however.

How Kennel Cough Spreads

Kennel cough is highly contagious and can spread through airborne droplets when an infected dog coughs or sneezes. It can also spread through direct contact with other infected dogs or tainted surfaces.

Places where dogs gather, such as dog shows, kennels, and shelters, are common areas where kennel cough can spread quickly. Additionally, sharing items like food and water bowls, toys, and bedding can also facilitate the spread of the infection. Keep your dog away from other dogs if they are showing symptoms to prevent the spread of the illness.

Diagnosis of Kennel Cough

Diagnosing kennel cough usually involves a physical examination by a vet. The vet will likely examine your dog's cough and look for other symptoms. In some cases, vet may need to conduct additional tests to rule out other illnesses like canine distemper virus.

If your dog has been in contact with other infected dogs, it is important to inform your vet. To find what's causing the infection, vets might do blood tests, chest X-rays, and take samples from the throat or nose.

Treatment for Kennel Cough

Treatment for kennel cough depends on the severity of the symptoms. In mild cases, your dog may recover on their own within 14 days.

In severe cases, your vet might suggest supportive care. This can include keeping your dog hydrated and using a cough suppressant to help with the discomfort. Your vet may prescribe antibiotics to treat bacterial infections.

Follow your vet's recommendations and ensure your dog gets plenty of rest. Your vet might suggest using a humidifier to help your dog breathe easier and feel better.

Preventing Kennel Cough

Preventing kennel cough involves taking steps to reduce your dog's exposure to the pathogens that cause it. This includes avoiding contact with other infected dogs and keeping your dog's environment clean. Regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations can also help protect your dog from kennel cough. Give your dog high quality food and lots of exercise to keep them healthy and avoid infections.

How Kennels Manage the Spread of Disease

Kennels play a crucial role in managing the spread of diseases like kennel cough. To prevent outbreaks, kennels implement strict hygiene protocols, including regular cleaning and disinfection of all areas where dogs stay. The frequency of cleaning as well as the products used are important factors in keeping the kennel disease free.

A reputable kennel ensures daily cleaning and disinfection. They use special cleaners that kill pathogens that can make dogs sick, but is safe for dogs.

Kennels also make sure all dogs have their vaccinations, especially for kennel cough, before they can stay there. Trained staff will recognize signs early and isolate any affected dogs immediately.

Kennels often set limits on the number of dogs in each space or group to reduce the spread of contagious diseases. By maintaining a clean environment and following preventive measures, kennels significantly reduce the risk of disease transmission.

Kennel Cough Vaccination

The Bordetella vaccination is available to help protect your dog from this illness. The vaccine targets the most common pathogens, including bordetella bronchiseptica and canine parainfluenza virus.

The vaccines don't offer complete protection, but they can lessen the severity of symptoms. Discuss the vaccination schedule with your vet, as some dogs may need booster shots to maintain immunity. Vaccination is important for dogs that visit kennels, dog parks, or other places where they come in contact with other dogs.

Recovering from Kennel Cough

Recovering from kennel cough usually takes about 14 days. During this time, it is important to keep your dog comfortable and hydrated. Avoid exposing your dog to other animals to prevent the spread of the illness.

Proper care ensures most dogs make a full recovery from kennel cough. Monitoring your dog's symptoms and consulting your vet if they worsen or fail to improve is crucial. In some cases, secondary infections may develop, requiring additional treatment.

Conclusion

Kennel cough is a common and highly contagious illness in dogs that affects their respiratory tract.

Kennel cough can cause discomfort for your dog, but it's generally not serious. You can treat it with supportive care and, in some cases, antibiotics.

Preventing kennel cough involves reducing exposure to infected dogs and keeping your dog's environment clean. Vaccination is also an important tool in protecting your dog from this illness. If you suspect your dog has kennel cough, consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. By taking proactive steps, you can help ensure your dog stays healthy and avoids the discomfort of kennel cough.


Written by Patrick St-Louis for Kennel Club Boarding.