Frequently asked questions about kennel cough in dogs

Kennel cough is often seen as a minor canine illness, but it can cause discomfort and serious illness in dogs with weakened immune systems. It's a highly contagious respiratory infection that can spread without direct contact, making it a concern for many pet owners.

Despite its prevalence, the kennel cough vaccine is not always included in standard vaccination routines and only protects against some types of the disease. Understanding transmission, prevention, and treatment options is essential for responsible dog care and health management.

How is kennel cough spread?

Kennel cough (also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis or CIRDC) spreads primarily through airborne respiratory secretions. This includes particles from coughing, sneezing, or nasal discharge from infected dogs. Dogs may be contagious even if they aren’t showing symptoms like coughing at the time.

The contagious nature means your dog can catch kennel cough from places where dogs gather—even without close or direct contact. For instance, dog parks, grooming salons, or kennels are common hotspots.

Can you vaccinate against kennel cough?

Vaccinations are available for some of the main pathogens involved in kennel cough, particularly Bordetella bronchiseptica, a bacteria responsible for many cases. This vaccine is usually given as an intranasal dose and is recommended especially if your dog will stay in kennels or be in contact with many other dogs.

However, no vaccine covers all causes of kennel cough. The Bordetella vaccine and routine vaccines that include canine parainfluenza virus reduce risk and severity but don’t guarantee full protection.

Can a vaccinated dog still get kennel cough?

Yes, vaccinated dogs can still catch kennel cough because vaccines don’t cover all infectious agents involved. Vaccination lowers the chances and often results in milder symptoms and quicker recovery, but it does not eliminate risk.

Immunity from the Bordetella vaccine typically lasts about a year, so yearly boosters are advisable, especially for dogs regularly exposed to others.

Can dogs catch kennel cough more than once?

Because kennel cough can be caused by various viral and bacterial agents, dogs can get infected multiple times. Immunity after natural infection or vaccination is strain-specific and temporary, generally lasting up to 12 months for Bordetella infections.

This means your dog might recover from one episode only to become susceptible again later when immunity wanes.

Can kennel cough be treated?

For most otherwise healthy dogs, kennel cough is self-limiting and typically resolves within 2–6 weeks. Supportive care like rest, a warm environment, and avoiding irritants such as smoke can help your dog recover comfortably.

Your vet can provide a diagnosis and recommend monitoring or treatment. If your dog’s condition worsens or if Bordetella is suspected, antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent secondary infections.

Cough suppressants are rarely recommended and should only be used under veterinary guidance to prevent masking signs of more serious illness.

Can kennel cough kill a dog?

Kennel cough is rarely fatal in healthy adult dogs. It mostly causes a mild cough and some discomfort similar to a human cold or mild bronchitis. However, puppies, elderly dogs, or those with weakened immune systems can develop severe complications like pneumonia, which may be life-threatening.

Since kennel cough impairs the immune system, infected dogs are more susceptible to other illnesses, making prevention important.

Vaccination greatly reduces these risks and is strongly recommended for dogs at higher risk or in communal environments.

Why is vaccination important even if it doesn’t fully prevent kennel cough?

Quick Answer: Vaccinations reduce severity and spread by targeting key pathogens but cannot prevent all forms due to multiple infectious agents involved.

Vaccines against Bordetella and viruses involved in kennel cough decrease the chances your dog will become severely ill or spread infection to others. Many UK kennels and boarding facilities require up-to-date kennel cough vaccination as a condition of entry, helping control outbreaks.

While vaccines do not provide complete immunity, they are a vital part of responsible dog care and help protect vulnerable dogs from serious disease.

How can I protect my dog from kennel cough?

Besides vaccination, reduce your dog’s risk by avoiding situations where infection is likely: crowded dog parks, grooming salons, and kennels with unknown health protocols.

Always isolate dogs showing coughing symptoms and maintain good hygiene around your pet. Prompt veterinary advice if kennel cough symptoms develop ensures timely care and reduces spread.

Responsible dog ownership includes regular vaccinations, health checks, and awareness of contagious conditions like kennel cough.