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Questions
- What is Kennel Cough?
- How do Dogs Get Kennel Cough?
- Symptoms of Kennel Cough in Dogs
- Is Kennel Cough Contagious to Other Dogs
- Can I Walk My Dog with Kennel Cough?
- Treating Kennel Cough
- Can Dogs Get Kennel Cough Twice?
- Dog Kennel Cough Vaccine
Did you know that all dogs are at risk of catching kennel cough, even if they haven’t been to kennels? Kennel cough in dogs is a common infection and is extremely important that all pet parents are aware of the signs and how to protect your pup. Our practical guide covers everything you need to know about kennel cough in dogs, from symptoms to treatment and everything else in between.
What is Kennel Cough?
Kennel cough is a common infection in dogs that causes mild upper respiratory disease - also known as canine cough or canine infectious tracheobronchitis. This term seems like a mouthful, but it just means inflammation of the airways. This inflammation causes the characteristic loud and harsh cough that has been likened to whooping cough in humans.
Kennel cough in dogs can be caused by many different organisms including the bacteria Bordatella bronchiseptica and viruses such as canine parainfluenza virus, adenovirus type 2, and canine coronavirus.
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How do Dogs Get Kennel Cough?
Kennel cough is highly contagious and spreads easily through direct contact with infected dogs or from contaminated surfaces, such as dog toys, and bowls. When a canine coughs the infected droplets become airborne, and your pup can become ill even if they have not been in direct contact with other dogs.
Kennel cough is quite a misleading name, as although kennels are a common site of infection, they can be contracted anywhere that dogs congregate in large numbers, including beaches, parks, doggy daycare, and the groomer.
Symptoms of Kennel Cough in Dogs
The sound of kennel cough can be very alarming for pet parents! It is a lough and harsh, often described as a barking seal or goose honk. Despite its characteristic sound, it can be easily mistaken for choking, sneezing, vomiting, retching, or gasping for breath.
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Despite the seal bark echoing down your hallways, in most cases, your dog will be their normal happy, active self. Some pups may be a little quiet or off their food due to mild fever, and you may also notice runny eyes and sneezing.
Coughing can also be a symptom of more serious conditions, such as heart disease, bronchitis, pneumonia, and heartworm. A persistent cough should always be checked by your veterinarian. Make sure you call ahead to let the clinic know you are coming.
Is Kennel Cough Contagious to Other Dogs
Yes, kennel cough is very contagious, and this means it can easily spread from dog to dog. This can lead to local outbreaks where clusters of dogs will become infected, much like the flu in humans.
Can I Walk My Dog with Kennel Cough?
As it is easily spread, if your dog has been diagnosed with kennel cough, they should be isolated until their symptoms resolve. This means they should not have their usual walk or visit friends, and stay home from parks, beaches, doggy daycare, and the groomer.
Don’t worry, you don’t have to isolate yourself with your pup, just make sure that you wash your hands and change your clothes if visiting a location with other dogs.
Treating Kennel Cough
Luckily, kennel cough in dogs sounds much worse than it is, and in most cases, no treatment is required. Many dogs will fully recover within 1-3 weeks without medication.
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Occasionally some pups may not improve as expected, and your vet may prescribe anti-inflammatories or cough suppressants to help them feel better. This is more likely in puppies, older dogs, or those with other health issues, as pneumonia can be an unwanted complication in these groups.
Can Dogs Get Kennel Cough Twice?
Yes, your dog can get kennel cough twice, and even three, four, or five times! Just like a cold in humans, your dog can be reinfected with kennel cough, however, each time the symptoms are likely to be milder due to the build-up of immunity.
Dog Kennel Cough Vaccine
The kennel cough vaccine provides immunization against the most common pathogens responsible for the infection. Puppies will receive 2-3 kennel cough vaccines as part of their puppy vaccination schedule and should be kept confined from unvaccinated dogs until this is complete.
Like all vaccines, the kennel cough vaccine does not provide 100% protection, however, it induces immunity that will ensure your dog has milder symptoms and recover faster should they become infected. This immunity does not last forever, and adult dogs will need 12 monthly boosters to remain protected.
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Do Dogs Feel Unwell After Kennel Cough Vaccine?
Side effects of the kennel cough vaccine are uncommon. In some cases, your dog may be a little lethargic, have a slight reduction in appetite, or sleep all afternoon. Sometimes it can be itchy where the vaccination was given, or a small lump may develop.
These effects are usually mild, and your pup should return to their bouncy selves within 24hrs. If your dog seems unwell, or their lethargy lingers past this timeframe, it is best to have a chat with your veterinarian.
When Can My Dog Socialise After Kennel Cough Vaccine?
The time between vaccination and protection will vary depending on your dog's vaccination history, age, and the type of vaccine used. As there are many products available on the market, it is best to check directly with your veterinarian regarding these time frames.
Generally, for puppies receiving their first vaccinations, it is recommended to wait 2 weeks after their last vaccination before socializing.
Kennel cough in dogs is a common, contagious respiratory infection that is easily treated. Prevention is the best protection and vaccinations are readily available from your veterinarian. For more dog and puppy essentials, check out our range, in-store and online.