How to Tell If Your Dog Has Kennel Cough: Symptoms & Risks

Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious respiratory disease (CIRD), refers to a range of highly contagious respiratory infections in dogs caused by various bacteria and viruses. The most common culprit in the UK is the bacterium Bordetella bronchiseptica, alongside viruses like canine parainfluenza.

It inflames your dog's windpipe and bronchi, triggering a distinctive cough. Kennel cough spreads quickly in places where dogs mingle closely, such as boarding kennels, dog shows, or shelters.

While vaccination has greatly lowered cases of kennel cough—especially those caused by Bordetella—dogs can still catch it. Understanding kennel cough's symptoms and risk factors empowers responsible dog owners to spot the infection promptly and protect their pets and others.

1. Has your dog been vaccinated against kennel cough?

A key factor increasing your dog’s risk is a lack of vaccination. The Bordetella vaccine mainly prevents the most common form of kennel cough and is often required for dogs staying in kennels or attending social dog events. Though vaccination does not guarantee full protection, it dramatically reduces the likelihood and severity of illness.

Regular boosters are essential; immunity wanes over time, so annual or six-monthly boosters are recommended based on risk. If your dog isn’t up to date with vaccinations, the chance that a cough is kennel cough increases.

2. Has your dog recently been in contact with infected dogs?

Kennel cough spreads rapidly through airborne droplets when dogs cough or sneeze. Dogs need not have direct physical contact to catch it; sharing environments like parks, grooming salons, or training classes is enough. Dogs incubate and can transmit the infection before showing symptoms, making unknowing exposure common.

If your dog has been near dogs showing coughs or respiratory illness symptoms, particularly in high-risk environments, be vigilant for signs of kennel cough.

3. What does the cough sound like?

The hallmark symptom is a loud, hacking, and harsh cough resembling a honking sound—similar to a goose. The cough can seem forceful and pained, sometimes making your dog appear to gag or retch. This coughing may shake their whole body and can be exhausting for the dog.

Importantly, kennel cough can produce either a dry, raspy cough or a productive cough with mucus, so either type may be indicative.

4. Is the coughing sudden or persistent?

Kennel cough often starts suddenly within 2 to 14 days after exposure. The dog may experience bouts of coughing that are loud and alarming to witnesses. While the cough typically lasts one to three weeks, it may persist longer in some individuals.

5. Are there other symptoms present?

Besides coughing, your dog might show sneezing, nasal discharge, or watery eyes. Usually, the dog remains bright and active, but mild lethargy or reduced appetite can occur. High fevers or difficulty breathing indicate more serious illness requiring immediate veterinary attention.

6. Differentiating kennel cough from other illnesses

Not all coughing in dogs means kennel cough. Other respiratory conditions may cause softer, wetter, or more persistent coughs and systemic symptoms such as lethargy or severe breathing difficulties. Kennel cough typically presents as a sudden, loud, dry, honking cough linked to recent exposure to other dogs.

If you are unsure, always seek veterinary advice for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. Your vet might perform physical exams, chest X-rays, or tests to rule out other issues.

7. What to do if you suspect kennel cough

If your dog shows signs of kennel cough or you suspect exposure, isolate them from other dogs to prevent spread. Keep them calm and avoid stressful exercise until the cough eases.

Contact your vet to discuss symptoms and potential treatments. Most cases require supportive care such as cough suppressants and rest. Antibiotics may be considered in bacterial cases or if a secondary infection develops.

Vaccinating your dog before boarding or social activities and maintaining good hygiene of their environment are your best tools to prevent kennel cough.

Conclusion

Kennel cough remains a common and highly contagious respiratory infection in dogs, marked by a distinctive loud, hacking cough. Vaccination and awareness of symptoms are crucial to protect your dog’s health and reduce spread among canine communities.

By monitoring your dog’s vaccination status, exposure risks, and recognising the hallmark cough, you can act promptly and responsibly. Always consult your vet if you notice concerning symptoms to ensure your dog receives the care they need.

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