Kennel Cough and Contagious Respiratory Diseases in Dogs: What Pet Owners Should Know

Respiratory illnesses are common in dogs, especially those who spend time around other dogs. One of the most well-known is kennel cough, but it’s just one part of a broader group called Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC). Understanding how these illnesses spread, how to prevent them, and what to watch for at home can help keep your dog—and others—healthy.

What Is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by a combination of bacteria (such as Bordetella bronchiseptica) and viruses (including canine parainfluenza and adenovirus). Dogs can be exposed anywhere dogs gather, such as boarding facilities, grooming salons, dog parks, training classes, or veterinary clinics.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms usually appear 2–10 days after exposure and may include:

• A dry, hacking or “honking” cough

• Gagging or retching, sometimes producing white foam

• Sneezing or nasal discharge

• Watery eyes

• Mild lethargy or decreased appetite

Sometimes, these symptoms can resemble a dog having something caught in its throat, as these viruses and bacteria infect the trachea and cause a similar sensation to foreign material. 

Most cases are mild, but some dogs—especially puppies, seniors, or those with weakened immune systems—can develop more serious illness.

Prevention and Vaccination

Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk and severity of kennel cough. Bordetella vaccines are available in intranasal and injectable forms. While no vaccine offers 100% protection, vaccinated dogs typically experience milder symptoms and recover faster.

Other prevention tips include:

• Avoiding contact with coughing or sick dogs

• Ensuring good ventilation in boarding or daycare settings

• Keeping your dog up to date on core and recommended vaccines

Quarantine and Protecting Other Dogs

If your dog shows signs of a respiratory illness, keep them isolated from other dogs for at least 10–14 days. This includes avoiding walks in high-traffic dog areas and postponing boarding, grooming, or daycare. Kennel cough spreads easily through airborne droplets and shared surfaces.

What to Monitor at Home

While many dogs recover with rest and supportive care alone, monitor closely for:

• Worsening or persistent cough

• Fever

• Lethargy or difficulty breathing

• Loss of appetite lasting more than 24 hours

If symptoms worsen, last longer than a few days, or if your dog seems uncomfortable, contact your primary care veterinarian or Animal Urgent Care. For more serious cases treatment with cough suppressants and antibiotics can help prevent complications and speed recovery. Radiographs may be taken to look for signs of pneumonia.

Have questions about your dog’s cough? 

Schedule an appointment with your primary care veterinarian or visit Animal Urgent Care at our Burbank or Koreatown location if your pet has urgent symptoms. 

Call us at (818) 296-0700 in Burbank or (323) 302-5200 in Koreatown to speak with a member of our care team. Your four legged loved one’s health is our top priority!