Kennel Cough in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment & Recovery

Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease in dogs. While it can sound alarming, it's often a mild and self-limiting condition, much like the common cold in humans. However, it's important for dog owners to understand its causes, symptoms, and when veterinary intervention is necessary to ensure their beloved companion recovers swiftly and without complications. This article provides general information and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice.

What is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough is an umbrella term for a complex of highly contagious respiratory diseases in dogs. It's caused by various airborne bacteria and viruses, either alone or in combination. The most common culprits include the bacterium Bordetella bronchiseptica (similar to whooping cough in humans) and canine parainfluenza virus. Other pathogens like adenovirus, canine distemper virus, and canine herpesvirus can also contribute.

These infectious agents target the lining of the dog's trachea (windpipe) and bronchi (airways in the lungs), leading to inflammation and irritation, which triggers the characteristic cough. The disease spreads easily through airborne droplets when an infected dog coughs or sneezes, or through direct contact with contaminated surfaces or objects, such as shared water bowls or toys.

Dogs are particularly susceptible in environments where many dogs congregate, such as kennels, dog parks, grooming facilities, or training classes – hence the name "kennel cough."

Symptoms of Kennel Cough

The most distinctive symptom of kennel cough is a sudden, dry, hacking cough. Owners often describe it as sounding like a goose honk or as if their dog has something stuck in its throat. This cough can be persistent and may worsen with excitement or exercise. In some cases, the coughing fits can be severe enough to induce gagging or retching, sometimes leading to the production of white foam.

Other symptoms, which can vary in severity depending on the dog's immune system and the specific pathogens involved, may include:

• Sneezing
• Nasal discharge (clear, watery, or sometimes thick and cloudy)
• Mild lethargy (reduced energy levels)
• Decreased appetite (though many dogs continue to eat and drink normally)
• Low-grade fever (less common in mild cases, but possible)

It's important to note that many dogs with kennel cough remain bright and alert despite the coughing. However, if symptoms are severe or persist, or if your dog develops a fever, becomes significantly lethargic, or has difficulty breathing, it could indicate a more serious infection, such as pneumonia.

Diagnosing Kennel Cough

Veterinarians typically diagnose kennel cough based on the dog's clinical signs, medical history, and exposure to other dogs. A physical examination will often reveal a characteristic cough that can be easily triggered by gently pressing on the dog's trachea. In most uncomplicated cases, further diagnostic tests are not necessary.

However, if the dog is very young, old, has a compromised immune system, or if symptoms are severe or progress to pneumonia, your veterinarian might recommend additional diagnostics. These could include:

• Chest X-rays: To assess lung health and check for pneumonia.
• Blood tests: To evaluate overall health and detect signs of infection.
• Bacterial cultures or PCR tests: To identify specific pathogens, especially in cases that are not responding to standard treatment or in multi-dog environments.

Treatment for Kennel Cough

Treatment for kennel cough generally depends on the severity of the symptoms. Many mild cases resolve on their own without specific medication, much like a human cold.

For more persistent or severe cases, your veterinarian may recommend one or more of the following:

• Cough suppressants: These medications can help reduce the frequency and severity of coughing, allowing your dog to rest more comfortably. They are often prescribed for dry, non-productive coughs.
• Antibiotics: While kennel cough is often viral in origin, antibiotics (such as doxycycline or clavamox) are frequently prescribed to treat or prevent secondary bacterial infections, particularly if Bordetella bronchiseptica is suspected or confirmed. They are not effective against viruses.
• Anti-inflammatory medications: In some cases, anti-inflammatories may be used to reduce irritation and inflammation in the airways.
• Bronchodilators: Less commonly, these might be used to help open the airways in dogs experiencing breathing difficulties.

Home Care and Support

Even with veterinary treatment, supportive home care is crucial for your dog's comfort and recovery:

• Rest: Ensure your dog gets plenty of rest in a warm, quiet environment. Avoid strenuous exercise.
• Humidity: Using a humidifier or spending time in a steamy bathroom (e.g., after a shower) can help soothe irritated airways and loosen secretions.
• Avoid irritants: Keep your dog away from smoke, dust, and harsh cleaning chemicals, which can exacerbate coughing.
• Harness vs. Collar: Switch from a neck collar to a harness for walks to avoid pressure on the trachea, which can trigger coughing.
• Soft food: If coughing is severe or causes gagging, consider offering softer, easier-to-swallow food.
• Isolation: To prevent further spread, keep your infected dog away from other dogs, especially young puppies, senior dogs, or those with compromised immune systems. This includes avoiding dog parks, kennels, and group classes until your vet advises it's safe.

Recovery Time for Kennel Cough

The recovery time for kennel cough can vary, but most uncomplicated cases resolve within 1 to 3 weeks. Some dogs may have a lingering cough for a few weeks even after the primary infection has cleared.

Factors influencing recovery time include:

• Age and general health of the dog: Younger puppies, senior dogs, and those with underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems may take longer to recover and are at higher risk for complications like pneumonia.
• Severity of infection: Dogs with mild symptoms typically recover faster than those with severe, persistent coughing.
• Specific pathogens involved: Some viral or bacterial combinations might lead to a more prolonged illness.
• Timeliness of treatment: Prompt veterinary care and appropriate treatment can help shorten the course of the disease and prevent complications.

It's important to complete any prescribed course of medication, even if your dog seems better, to ensure full recovery and minimize the risk of relapse or secondary infections.

Prevention

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent kennel cough. Vaccines are available for Bordetella bronchiseptica and canine parainfluenza virus. These vaccines significantly reduce the risk of infection and, if infection does occur, tend to lessen the severity of symptoms. Talk to your veterinarian about the appropriate vaccination schedule for your dog, especially if they frequent dog parks, boarding kennels, or other places where they interact with many other dogs.

Good hygiene practices, such as washing hands after handling dogs and sanitizing shared items, can also help reduce the spread of respiratory pathogens.

When to call your vet

While many cases of kennel cough are mild, it's always best to contact your veterinarian if your dog develops a cough. They can confirm the diagnosis, rule out more serious conditions, and recommend the most appropriate course of action. You should seek immediate veterinary attention if:

• Your dog's cough is severe, persistent, or worsening.
• Your dog develops difficulty breathing, appears to be struggling for air, or has bluish gums.
• Your dog becomes very lethargic, weak, or unresponsive.
• Your dog stops eating or drinking.
• Your dog has a high fever (over 103°F or 39.4°C).
• Your dog is a puppy, a senior dog, or has a pre-existing medical condition (e.g., heart disease, compromised immune system).
• Your dog's symptoms do not improve within a few days of starting treatment.