Kennel Cough (Canine Infectious Tracheobronchitis)
A highly contagious respiratory disease complex commonly seen after exposure at boarding facilities, dog parks, or shelters, usually mild and self-limiting.
Overview
Kennel cough most commonly involves Bordetella bronchiseptica, canine parainfluenza virus, and/or canine adenovirus, alone or in combination, spread through close contact and shared airspace with infected dogs.
Clinical signs
- A characteristic harsh, "honking" dry cough, often triggered by mild exercise, excitement, or gentle pressure on the trachea
- Occasional mild nasal discharge, sneezing, or low-grade fever
- Most affected dogs otherwise remain bright, alert, and eating well
Diagnosis
- Usually a clinical diagnosis based on history (recent boarding, dog park, or shelter exposure) and the characteristic cough
- PCR respiratory panel testing for confirmation in outbreak settings or atypical/prolonged cases
- Chest radiographs if signs are severe or prolonged, to rule out pneumonia
Treatment
- Most cases are self-limiting, resolving over 1-3 weeks with supportive care and rest
- Cough suppressants for comfort in some cases
- Antibiotics reserved for cases with a suspected bacterial component or secondary pneumonia
Prognosis
Excellent in otherwise healthy adult dogs. Puppies, senior dogs, and dogs with other underlying health issues are at higher risk of progressing to pneumonia and warrant closer monitoring.
This page is general reference information for educational purposes. It is not a substitute for an individual clinical assessment, current formulary guidance, or the judgment of a licensed veterinarian treating a specific patient.
Frequently asked questions
How long is a dog with kennel cough contagious?
Dogs can shed the causative organisms for one to several weeks depending on the specific pathogen involved, even after the cough itself has improved, so keeping them away from other dogs until fully resolved is the safest approach.
Does the Bordetella vaccine fully prevent kennel cough?
It significantly reduces the risk and severity of disease from Bordetella specifically, but since kennel cough can involve several different pathogens, a vaccinated dog can occasionally still develop a milder case.