Kennel Cough (Infectious Tracheobronchitis)
Canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC)
A highly contagious respiratory infection causing a characteristic dry, hacking cough. Often compared to the common cold in humans. Usually self-limiting but can progress to pneumonia in vulnerable dogs.
Last updated: 2026-05-10
Severity
mild
When to Act
See Vet Soon
Symptoms & Signs
Dry, hacking cough
Characteristic goose-honk cough, often triggered by excitement, exercise, or pressure on the trachea.
Gagging or retching
May cough up white foam or gag at the end of a coughing fit, often mistaken for choking.
Watery nasal discharge
Clear discharge from the nose in mild cases.
Lethargy
Mild tiredness especially if fever is present.
Fever
Usually mild but may spike in complicated cases.
Behavioral Changes to Watch For
Pets can't tell us what's wrong. These behavioral changes are often the first clues that something is wrong.
🐾 Coughing fits after activity
Exercise, excitement, or pulling on a collar triggers prolonged coughing spells.
What You May Notice:
Your dog coughs repeatedly after running or when you pick up the leash for a walk.
🐾 Decreased appetite (mild)
May eat less due to throat irritation or general malaise.
What You May Notice:
Your dog picks at their food or skips a meal when normally eager to eat.
Causes & Risk Factors
Causes
- •Bordetella bronchiseptica (most common bacterial agent)
- •Canine parainfluenza virus
- •Canine adenovirus type 2
- •Canine respiratory coronavirus
- •Mycoplasma species
- •Often a co-infection of multiple pathogens
Risk Factors
- ⚠Recent boarding, daycare, grooming, or dog park visits
- ⚠Shelter or kennel environments
- ⚠Young puppies or senior dogs
- ⚠Brachycephalic breeds (Bulldogs, Pugs) at higher risk of complication
- ⚠Pre-existing respiratory disease
How It's Diagnosed
- 1Clinical signs and recent exposure history are usually sufficient
- 2Tracheal palpation elicits cough (positive tracheal pinch test)
- 3Chest radiographs if pneumonia suspected
- 4PCR panel for respiratory pathogens in complicated cases
Treatment Options
Rest and Humidity
Most cases are self-limiting and resolve with supportive home care.
Steps
- 1.Restrict exercise for 1-2 weeks
- 2.Use a humidifier or bring the dog into a steamy bathroom for 10-15 minutes, 2-3x daily
- 3.Switch from collar to harness to reduce tracheal pressure
- 4.Honey (1 tsp for small dogs, 1 tbsp for large) can soothe throat irritation
Expected Outcome
Cough resolves within 1-3 weeks in uncomplicated cases.
Precautions
- !Isolate from other dogs during illness — highly contagious
- !If cough worsens or dog becomes lethargic, see a vet immediately
Antibiotics (if indicated)
Prescribed for severe or prolonged cases, or dogs at risk of pneumonia.
Steps
- 1.Doxycycline — first choice for Bordetella
- 2.Course typically 7-14 days
- 3.Cough suppressants (hydrocodone) may be prescribed for severe, non-productive cough
Expected Outcome
Faster resolution and reduced risk of secondary pneumonia.
Precautions
- !Antibiotics are not always needed — many cases are viral
- !Cough suppressants should not be used if pneumonia is present
Common Medications Used
| Medication | Usage | Important Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Doxycycline | First-line antibiotic for Bordetella bronchiseptica | Give with food to reduce GI upset. Do not give with dairy products. |
Prevention
- ✓Bordetella vaccine (intranasal, oral, or injectable) — recommended for dogs that board or attend daycare
- ✓Annual booster for at-risk dogs
- ✓Avoid high-density dog facilities when possible
- ✓Good ventilation in kennels and shelters
When to See a Veterinarian
- ⚠️Cough persists more than 2 weeks
- ⚠️Dog develops fever, lethargy, or decreased appetite
- ⚠️Difficulty breathing (increased respiratory rate or effort)
- ⚠️Thick yellow/green nasal discharge
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my vaccinated dog still get kennel cough?
Prognosis
Excellent for uncomplicated cases. Most dogs recover fully in 1-3 weeks. Complication to pneumonia is the main concern, especially in puppies, seniors, and brachycephalic breeds.
References
- [1] AAHA Canine Vaccination Guidelines
- [2] Merck Veterinary Manual
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mild