Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease in dogs. This common ailment is caused by various viruses and bacteria, often spreading rapidly in areas where dogs congregate.
The hallmark symptom of kennel cough in dogs is a persistent, forceful cough that sounds like a honking noise. Other signs may include runny nose, sneezing, lethargy, and loss of appetite.
For dog owners, recognizing kennel cough symptoms early is crucial. While many cases are mild and resolve on their own, some can progress to more severe respiratory infections, especially in puppies, senior dogs, or those with compromised immune systems. Prompt veterinary attention can prevent complications, alleviate discomfort, and reduce the risk of spreading the infection to other dogs.
By staying vigilant and seeking timely treatment for parasite prevention, pet owners play a vital role in their dog’s health and the well-being of the wider canine community. Our Maple Grove veterinary clinic is adept at helping you recognize the signs of kennel cough while offering expert vet care on kennel cough prevention.
How Do Dogs Get Kennel Cough? Prevention Strategies for Canine Kennel Cough
While kennel cough is common, dog owners can take several steps to reduce the risk of their pets contracting this respiratory infection.
Vaccinations
The Bordetella vaccine is specifically designed to protect against one of the primary bacterial causes of canine kennel cough. While it doesn’t prevent all cases, it can significantly reduce the risk and severity of infection. Consult your veterinarian about the appropriate vaccination schedule for your dog, especially if they frequently interact with other dogs.
Minimizing Exposure
Limit your dog’s contact with unfamiliar dogs, especially in high-risk environments like kennels, dog parks, or grooming facilities. If possible, opt for individual dog-walking services rather than group walks. This will help maintain your pet’s wellness and prevent contracting other dogs’ bacteria.
Having Good Hygiene Practices
To ward off any signs of kennel cough in dogs, be sure to regularly clean and disinfect your dog’s toys, bowls, and bedding. This also means washing your hands after interacting with other dogs before touching your own pet. If you work with or handle multiple dogs, change clothes before interacting with your own dog.
Preventative Care
Maintain regular veterinary check-ups to ensure that your dog’s overall health and immune system are strong. Be sure to also provide them with a balanced diet and ensure your dog gets adequate exercise to support their immune system.
Symptoms of Kennel Cough
Most dogs develop kennel cough symptoms 5 to 7 days after exposure; however, the total incubation period can last up to two weeks. This ultimately varies depending on factors such as the dog’s age, overall health, and the specific pathogen involved.
The most common kennel cough symptoms include:
- Persistent, forceful cough: Often described as a “honking” sound, this is the most characteristic symptom.
- Retching or gagging: Often occurs at the end of a coughing fit, sometimes producing foamy mucus.
- Runny nose: Discharge may be clear or slightly cloudy.
- Sneezing: Frequent sneezing is common, especially in the early stages.
- Lethargy: Affected dogs may seem less energetic than usual.
- Loss of appetite: Some dogs may eat less or show disinterest in food.
- Mild fever: Though not always present, some dogs may have a slightly elevated temperature.
- Eye discharge: Watery eyes or mild conjunctivitis can occur in some cases.
- Difficulty breathing: In more severe cases, dogs may show signs of respiratory distress.
- Reduced exercise tolerance: Dogs may tire more quickly during physical activity.
While these are common kennel cough symptoms, their severity can vary greatly. Some dogs may only exhibit a mild cough, while others might show multiple symptoms. Puppies, senior dogs, and those with compromised immune systems are more likely to develop more severe symptoms.
How is Kennel Cough in Dogs Diagnosed?
Kennel cough in dogs is typically diagnosed through a combination of clinical assessment and diagnostic tests.
See below for an overview of diagnostics. As always, please speak with your veterinarian about the specific diagnostics they recommend for your dog.
- Clinical History: The veterinarian will ask about recent exposure to other dogs, boarding facilities, or grooming services. They’ll also inquire about the onset and progression of symptoms.
- Physical Examination: The vet will listen to the dog’s heart and lungs. They may gently palpate the throat to trigger a coughing response.
- Cough Evaluation: The characteristic “honking” cough is often a key indicator. The vet may also try to induce coughing by gently pressing on the trachea.
- Chest X-rays: These can help rule out other respiratory conditions, like pneumonia. They may reveal inflammation in the lungs’ airways.
- Blood Tests: A complete blood count can indicate the presence of infection and help assess overall health and immune function.
- Bacterial Culture: A swab from the throat or trachea can be cultured to identify specific bacteria.
- PCR Testing: This advanced test can detect viral or bacterial DNA, helping identify specific pathogens.
- Bronchoscopy: In rare cases, the vet may need to visually examine the airways using a small camera.
- Tracheal Wash: This procedure collects cells and fluid from the airways for microscopic examination.
Ultimately, the diagnosis is often based on the characteristic symptoms and history of exposure, especially in mild cases. In more severe or persistent cases, or when the vet suspects complications or other underlying conditions, more extensive testing is done.
Canine Kennel Cough Treatment for Dogs and Puppies
Determining how to treat kennel cough for dogs and puppies typically depends on the severity of the infection and the overall health of the animal. In mild cases, veterinarians often recommend supportive puppy care at home, which includes rest, good nutrition, and plenty of water. This approach allows the dog’s immune system to fight off the infection naturally.
For more severe cases or in dogs with compromised immune systems, antibiotics may be prescribed to combat bacterial infections, while cough suppressants or bronchodilators can help manage symptoms and make the dog more comfortable. In some instances, veterinarians might recommend nebulizer treatments to help soothe irritated airways.
The duration of kennel cough treatment and recovery can vary, but most dogs show improvement within a week to 10 days of starting treatment. However, the cough may persist for several weeks, gradually diminishing in frequency and severity. In some cases, it can take up to 3 weeks for the cough to resolve completely.
Throughout the treatment period, however, it’s crucial to isolate the infected dog to prevent spreading the illness to other dogs. Always follow your veterinarian’s instructions carefully and complete the full course of any prescribed medications, even if symptoms seem to improve earlier.
The Risks of Kennel Cough in Dogs
Not treating kennel cough right away can lead to other more serious conditions. For this reason, dog owners should seek veterinary care as soon as they spot potential signs of kennel cough in their dog or puppy.
These are some of the risks dog owners should be aware of if kennel cough is not treated promptly:
- Pneumonia
- Chronic Bronchitis
- Spread of Infection
- Secondary Infections
- Dehydration and Weight Loss
- Worsening of Pre-existing Conditions
Which Dogs Are at Greater Risk of Contracting Kennel Cough?
Unfortunately, certain dogs are at a higher risk of contracting kennel cough due to their specific health conditions, living environments, or demographics. For this reason, it’s extra important that owners of dogs meeting these criteria are hyper-vigilant about kennel cough.
Here are some groups that may be more susceptible:
- Puppies: Puppies have developing immune systems that are not yet fully mature, making them more vulnerable to infections, including kennel cough. They may also be more likely to contract the disease in environments where many other dogs are present.
- Senior Dogs: Older dogs often have weakened immune systems and may have other underlying health issues that make them more susceptible to infections and complications from kennel cough.
- Dogs with Pre-existing Health Conditions: Dogs with chronic respiratory conditions (like asthma or chronic bronchitis), heart disease, or other health problems are at greater risk of severe illness if they contract kennel cough. Their compromised health can make it harder for them to recover and can increase the risk of complications.
- Dogs in High-Density Environments: Dogs that frequently interact with other dogs in environments such as kennels, dog parks, grooming salons, or shelters are at higher risk. Due to the close proximity of many animals, these environments facilitate the spread of respiratory infections.
- Dogs with Poor Overall Health or Weak Immune Systems: Dogs that are malnourished, have poor overall health, or have compromised immune systems due to illness or other factors are more vulnerable to kennel cough.
- Unvaccinated Dogs: Dogs that have not been vaccinated against kennel cough (Bordetella bronchiseptica) are at a higher risk of contracting the disease. Vaccination is an effective way to reduce the likelihood of infection.
- Dogs Under Stress: Dogs experiencing stress, such as from travel, relocation, or changes in their environment, may have weakened immune responses, making them more susceptible to infections.
Ensuring that your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations, maintaining good hygiene in environments where many dogs interact, and providing a healthy diet and regular veterinary care can help reduce the risk of kennel cough and its complications. Our Maple Grove Pet Hospital offers exceptional veterinary services so your dog receives personalized attention and care.
Signs of Kennel Cough in Puppies
- Persistent Coughing: A dry, hacking cough that may sound like a honk or a goose-like noise.
- Runny Nose: Clear or thick nasal discharge.
- Watery Eyes: Mild eye discharge or tearing.
- Sneezy: Frequent sneezing.
- Lethargy: Reduced energy levels or playfulness.
- Loss of Appetite: Decreased interest in food or treats.
- Mild Fever: Elevated body temperature (less common but possible).
If you notice these symptoms in your puppy, it’s important to consult a veterinarian to confirm the diagnosis and begin appropriate treatment.
What to Do If Your Dog Has Kennel Cough
Acting promptly is of the utmost importance if you notice symptoms of kennel cough in your dog or puppy. At Maple Grove Pet Hospital, our team of compassionate veterinary professionals is dedicated to providing unparalleled care for your pets.
If your dog or puppy is struggling, we invite you to schedule an appointment with us today. We’ll ensure your pet is treated swiftly so that they may begin to feel better as soon as possible.