Kennel Cough in Dogs
A highly contagious respiratory infection found in dogs.
What is Kennel Cough?
Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC), is a highly contagious respiratory infection in dogs. It is characterised by a persistent, hacking cough and can be caused by multiple bacteria and viruses, including Bordetella bronchiseptica and canine parainfluenza virus. While usually mild, it can lead to more serious complications in puppies, senior dogs, or those with weakened immune systems.
Signs Your Dog May Have Kennel Cough
Symptoms can include:
🐾 A dry, honking cough (often described like a goose honk)
🐾 Sneezing or nasal discharge
🐾 Gagging or retching
🐾 Mild fever or lethargy in some cases
🐾 Loss of appetite (less common)
If your dog shows any of these signs, a vet check-up is recommended to allow for treatment and prevent further complications.
What is kennel cough and what does it sound like? Click the video above to hear it.
What Causes Kennel Cough?
Kennel cough spreads through direct dog-to-dog contact, airborne respiratory droplets, and contaminated surfaces (such as food bowls, leashes, and shared toys). It is commonly contracted in environments where dogs gather, such as:
🐾 Boarding kennels and doggy daycare
🐾 Grooming salons
🐾 Training classes
When to See a Vet
Most cases of kennel cough resolve on their own within 1–3 weeks, but veterinary attention is needed if:
🐾 The cough is severe or worsening
🐾 Your dog has difficulty breathing
🐾 There is thick nasal discharge or fever
🐾 Your dog is lethargic or refuses to eat
🐾 A puppy, senior, or immunocompromised dog is affected
At My Corner Vet Nedlands, we offer gentle, professional treatment to relieve discomfort and prevent further complications experienced with Kennel Cough.
Professional Kennel Cough Treatment at My Corner Vet
Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms:
Severe cases
Cough suppressants, anti-inflammatory medications, and sometimes antibiotics (if a secondary bacterial infection is present)
Complicated cases
Hospitalisation and oxygen therapy for dogs with pneumonia or breathing difficulties
Mild cases
Supportive care, rest, and monitoring at home
How to Prevent Kennel Cough
You can help reduce the risk by:
🐾 Vaccination – Kennel cough vaccines helps protect against the disease. It is recommended for all dogs to have in their routine vaccinations.
🐾 Good hygiene – Regularly disinfect shared items like bowls, leashes, and bedding.
🐾 Support a healthy immune system – Proper nutrition, regular exercise, and stress reduction can help keep your dog’s immune system strong.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Kennel cough is highly contagious between dogs but rarely affects humans, except in immunocompromised individuals. It does not spread to cats.
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Yes, the vaccine reduces the risk and severity but does not guarantee complete protection, as multiple bacteria and viruses can cause kennel cough. However, vaccinated dogs are much less likely to contract the infection, and if they do, their symptoms are typically milder
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Dogs can remain contagious for 2–3 weeks, even after symptoms improve. Isolating your dog from other dogs during this period is recommended.
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In rare cases, especially in puppies, elderly dogs, or those with weak immune systems, kennel cough can progress to pneumonia, which requires urgent veterinary care.
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Yes, kennel cough is common in places where dogs congregate, such as boarding facilities, doggy daycare, and grooming salons. Vaccination and hygiene measures can help reduce the risk.
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