What Is kennel cough?
Kennel cough (also called canine infectious tracheo-bronchitis) is a highly contagious respiratory infection that affects dogs of all ages and breeds. It is characterised by inflammation of the trachea and bronchi, which leads to a distinctive, harsh cough that often sounds like a goose honking. While kennel cough is usually mild in healthy dogs, it can be more severe in puppies, elderly dogs, or those with compromised immune systems.
Causes and transmission
Kennel cough is caused by a combination of bacteria and viruses that attack your dog’s respiratory linings. The most common culprits include Bordetella bronchiseptica, canine parainfluenza virus, and canine adenovirus type 2. These pathogens weaken the respiratory tract’s defences, making it more susceptible to secondary infections. The illness spreads rapidly in environments where dogs are in close contact with one another, like kennels, doggy daycare centres, grooming parlours, or shelters. Individual cases can, however, occur anywhere.
Transmission occurs when an infected dog sneezes or coughs. Airborne droplets containing the pathogens are released into the environment. Direct contact between dogs, like sniffing or licking, can also spread the infection. Contaminated surfaces like water bowls or toys can harbour infectious agents for extended periods. This easy transmission is why kennel cough is so common in social settings for dogs.
My dog doesn’t leave my property, is he safe?
A common misconception is that your pets are safe from kennel cough if they do not leave the house or interact with other dogs. Unfortunately, this is not accurate. Kennel cough spreads through airborne droplets, contaminated surfaces, and even human clothing or hands. If you interact with an infected dog before returning home, you could unknowingly carry the pathogens back to your dog. Even dogs who never leave their property can still be exposed to kennel cough.
Signs your dog may have kennel cough
The most recognisable symptom of kennel cough is a persistent cough that often sounds like a honking noise. This coughing may worsen when your dog becomes excited or engages in physical activity. Other symptoms of kennel cough include retching or gagging (which may resemble choking), sneezing, nasal discharge, lethargy, loss of appetite, and a mild fever. While most cases resolve on their own within one to three weeks, severe symptoms like laboured breathing or prolonged lethargy need immediate veterinary attention.
When to call the vet
Diagnosing kennel cough involves reviewing your dog’s recent history, including exposure to other dogs, and conducting a physical examination. A veterinarian may gently press on your dog’s trachea to cause coughing. In more severe cases or when complications like pneumonia are suspected, additional diagnostic tests, including chest X-rays or bacterial cultures, may be required.
It’s important to know when to take your dog to the vet. If your dog has been coughing for more than a few days or shows signs of distress like difficulty breathing or lethargy, you should consult your vet immediately. If your dog loses their appetite or experiences worsening symptoms despite home care measures, professional intervention is essential.
Treatment and management
For mild cases of kennel cough, rest and supportive care at home are often sufficient for recovery. Make sure your dog remains calm and avoids strenuous activity to prevent further irritation to their respiratory system. Providing plenty of fresh, filtered water to keep them hydrated and support their recovery process. Using a humidifier can also ease breathing difficulties.
In more severe cases of kennel cough, antibiotics are sometimes prescribed to address secondary bacterial infections that can develop alongside the illness. Antitussive (cough suppressant) medications may be used to manage persistent coughing and provide relief for your dog. Although hospitalisation is rarely required for kennel cough itself, it may be necessary for dogs with severe respiratory distress or complications like pneumonia.
Preventing kennel cough
Vaccination is one of the most effective measures available. While no vaccine provides complete immunity against kennel cough because of its multiple causes, it greatly lowers the likelihood of severe illness.
Good hygiene practices help minimise risk. Regularly clean your dog’s food bowls, bedding, and toys to reduce exposure to pathogens. If you touch another dog, wash your hands before touching your dog. Avoid high-risk environments like crowded kennels to further protect your pet from contracting the illness.
Who is most at risk?
Some dogs are more vulnerable to complications from kennel cough because of their weaker immune systems or age-related factors. Puppies are particularly at risk because their immune systems are not yet fully developed. Elderly dogs are also more susceptible because of age-related declines in immune function. Dogs with chronic illnesses or dogs undergoing treatments like chemotherapy are vulnerable and require extra precautions to protect their health.
Natural support
Many remedies can help support recovery from kennel cough. Honey is a popular choice due to its natural anti-inflammatory properties; it can soothe an irritated throat when given in small amounts (though it should not be used for puppies under one year old). Coconut oil supports immune health when added sparingly to meals. Chamomile tea has calming effects and reduces inflammation; ensure it has cooled before offering it to your dog in small amounts.
It is important to research any remedies you would like to give your dog and only use in moderation under the guidance of your vet. This is especially important for dogs with specific health conditions.
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Conclusion
Kennel cough can sound alarming, but with proper knowledge and care, it’s manageable for most dogs. Understanding its causes, symptoms, treatments, and taking preventive measures empowers you as a pet owner to protect your furry friend from unnecessary discomfort.
This article first appeared on Anima-Strath and can be found here.
References and additional reading:
- Canine infectious respiratory disease complex (kennel cough) (no date) American Veterinary Medical Association. Available at: https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/canine-infectious-respiratory-disease-complex-kennel-cough
- Kennel cough (2021) Medivet.UK. Available at: https://www.medivetgroup.com/pet-care/pet-advice/kennel-cough/
- Kennel cough (no date) PDSA. Available at: https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/pet-health-hub/conditions/kennel-cough
- Kennel Cough Home Remedies: Natural Solutions for your dog’s cough (no date) Prana Pets. Available at: https://www.pranapets.com/blogs/pet-health/kennel-cough-home-remedies
- Kennel cough in dogs: What to know about this contagious condition (2024) American Kennel Club. Available at: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/kennel-cough-in-dogs/
- Natural remedies for Kennel Cough in dogs (2023) My Pet Nutritionist. Available at: https://mypetnutritionist.com/post/natural-remedies-for-kennel-cough-in-dogs/
- Pallavi Suyog Uttekar, M. (2024) Kennel cough treatment: How to help your dog recover quickly, MedicineNet. Available at: https://www.medicinenet.com/what_is_the_fastest_way_to_cure_kennel_cough/article.htm