If your dog suddenly develops a loud, honking cough, it can be alarming, especially when it comes on quickly or seems to worsen at night. One of the most common respiratory illnesses in dogs is kennel cough, a highly contagious condition that spreads easily anywhere dogs gather.
The good news: while kennel cough sounds dramatic, it’s treatable and usually preventable with proper veterinary care and vaccination.
Understanding how kennel cough spreads, what symptoms to watch for, and when to seek veterinary attention can help you keep your dog safe and comfortable year-round.
What Is Kennel Cough?
Kennel cough is officially known as canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC).
It is caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria, most commonly:
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Bordetella bronchiseptica (the most well-known cause)
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Canine parainfluenza virus
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Canine adenovirus type 2
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Additional respiratory pathogens
Because multiple organisms can be involved, kennel cough often spreads very efficiently and affects dogs of all ages.
How Common Is It?
Kennel cough is one of the most frequently diagnosed infectious diseases in dogs. Veterinary groups estimate it affects millions of dogs every year – especially those who visit grooming salons, dog parks, doggie daycares, boarding facilities, or shelters.
How Kennel Cough Spreads
Kennel cough spreads through respiratory droplets, much like a cold in humans.
A dog can become infected through:
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Close contact with an infected dog
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Shared toys, bowls, bedding, or water sources
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Aerosolized droplets from coughing or barking
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Contaminated surfaces (leashes, crates, clothing)
Because dogs often gather in social environments, the infection can move quickly in:
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Dog parks
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Boarding or daycare facilities
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Groomers
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Training classes
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Shelters or rescue environments
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Veterinary waiting areas
Coughing dogs release a large amount of infectious material into the environment, making kennel cough highly contagious.
Common Symptoms of Kennel Cough
Symptoms can vary from mild to more serious depending on the dog’s age, immune system, and which pathogens are involved.
Typical signs include:
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A dry, hacking, honking cough (often described as sounding like something stuck in the throat)
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Coughing fits triggered by pressure on the throat (leash, excitement)
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Mild lethargy
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Occasional retching or gagging
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Clear nasal discharge
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Reduced appetite in some cases
More concerning signs may include:
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Persistent or worsening cough
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Green or yellow nasal discharge
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Difficulty breathing
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Fever
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Severe lethargy
Young puppies, senior dogs, and immunocompromised dogs are at higher risk for complications, including pneumonia.
If any of these more serious symptoms appear, call our office immediately, as veterinary care is essential.
Why the Bordetella Vaccine Matters
The Bordetella vaccine, often called the “kennel cough vaccine”, is one of the most commonly recommended non-core vaccines for dogs. It protects against Bordetella bronchiseptica, one of the leading causes of kennel cough.
Vaccination is recommended for dogs who:
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Visit grooming salons
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Go to dog parks
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Attend training classes
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Stay at boarding or daycare facilities
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Participate in group walks, playgroups, or social events
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Live with or interact with rescue dogs
Many boarding facilities and groomers require proof of Bordetella vaccination because it dramatically reduces the risk of outbreaks.
How effective is it?
While no vaccine can prevent every form of CIRDC, the Bordetella vaccine is highly effective at reducing the severity and duration of illness, and significantly lowers the risk of infection from the most common bacterial cause.
How Long Does Kennel Cough Last?
Most mild cases resolve in 1–3 weeks, but recovery depends on the specific pathogens involved and the dog’s immune system. Puppies, seniors, and dogs with underlying conditions may take longer or experience complications.
Our vets will determine the best course of action based on your dog’s symptoms and overall health.
If your dog has developed a new cough or you’re unsure whether they’re due for their Bordetella vaccine, schedule an appointment with Paws & Claws Veterinary Hospital.
Our team can evaluate your dog’s symptoms, recommend appropriate care, and help keep them protected in every environment.
