Canine cough (also known as kennel cough) is an infectious respiratory condition in dogs (similar to bronchitis). Canine coughs are usually caused by bacterial or viral infections, and dogs often catch it through contact with another sick animal.
Like coughs in humans, canine cough is usually treated with antibiotics and is not typically life-threatening.
Continue reading to learn more about canine cough, its symptoms and its most effective treatments.
What is Canine Cough?
Canine cough or Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC) is a contagious upper respiratory tract infection that is caused by bacteria and viruses. It is comparable to bronchitis in humans, and although it may sound serious, it is not life-threatening and can usually be treated with a round of antibiotics. However, canine cough can sometimes develop into pneumonia (complicated kennel cough).
Various bacteria and viruses can cause canine cough. These include:
- Parainfluenza virus
- Bordetella bronchiseptica
- Canine Influenza Virus
- Canine Distemper Virus
- Canine Adenovirus Type 2 (Infectious Canine Hepatitis)
The Symptoms of Canine Cough
The common signs of canine cough to look out for include:
- A dry cough
- Retching or gagging
- Runny eyes
- Sneezing and snorting
- Nasal discharge
The symptoms of complicated canine cough that can develop into pneumonia include:
- Fevers
- Difficulty with breathing
- Lethargy and fatigue
- Loss of appetite
How Do Dogs Catch Canine Cough?
Since canine cough is highly contagious, it is quite easy for dogs to catch it from one another. Like humans, dogs can contract canine cough by spending time with sick dogs that cough and sneeze and sharing infected food and water bowls.
Dogs can also become infected in crowded environments with poor air circulation and high humidity, such as dog kennels, animal shelters, grooming salons, and obedience classes.
Dogs are usually sick for 2-3 weeks, but they can continue to spread the infection for a few months after they become sick.
Diagnosing Canine Cough
If your dog is coughing and has been around other dogs in the past few days, a physical examination will be carried out to determine if it has canine cough.
If your dog has a cough and a fever, the vet will recommend a chest x-ray to rule out more serious illnesses such as pneumonia.
How is Canine Cough Treated?
In most cases, canine cough can run its course. In more serious or persistent cases, antibiotics such as doxycycline may be necessary to prevent secondary bacterial infections.
Sometimes, cough suppressants are given to offer the dog some relief, although this may also prolong the duration of the infection, as coughing helps expel the pathogens.
If your dog shows signs of pneumonia, your vet will prescribe stronger antibiotics, and they may also need to be put on an IV for fluids, depending on how sick they are.
Here are some ways to help your dog receive the best care when they are suffering from canine cough:
- Give them plenty of rest, and avoid physical activity
- Keep your dog warm and dry
- Give them lots of water and ensure they stay hydrated
- Offer them soft foods, which will be easier on their throats
- Monitor them closely for any changes
- Keep them away from other dogs
- Keep the vet informed
Preventing Canine Cough
There are vaccinations available for canine cough that protect against the Bordetella bronchiseptica and Parainfluenza Virus. These vaccines are usually included in a C5 or C7 vaccination, which also offers protection against hepatitis, distemper, and parvovirus.
Puppies can receive their first canine cough vaccination at the age of 3 to 4 months, which is then followed by an annual booster. Vaccinations are administered via an injection, orally or as an intranasal method.
It is essential to note that, like all vaccinations, there is no guarantee that the canine cough vaccine will be 100% effective.
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Here are some other preventative measures that can be taken to protect your dogs from canine cough:
- Keep your dogs away from sick or coughing dogs
- Avoid communal water or food bowls whenever you can
- Choose reputable dog kennels and obedience classes where they practice good hygiene, and you know the other dogs will have up-to-date vaccinations
- Ensure your dogs are up-to-date with their vaccinations
FAQs
Can Humans Catch Canine Cough?
No, most canine cough pathogens cannot be spread to humans. However, people who are immunocompromised pose a small risk of contracting the Bordetella bronchiseptica infection.
Can Other Animals Get Canine Cough?
Yes, although the risk isn’t as high, other animals, such as cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, mice, and horses, can also be infected with canine cough.
Is Canine Cough More Dangerous for Puppies?
Yes, puppies have a higher risk of contracting canine cough and becoming more seriously ill, as their immune systems are undeveloped.
Can My Dog Catch Canine Cough More Than Once?
Yes, just like humans can catch a cold multiple times, dogs can also contract canine cough more than once throughout their lives.
Do Dogs Still Need Vaccinations After Contracting Canine Cough?
Yes, canine cough only offers 6-12 months of immune protection, so vaccinations will be required to further protect your dogs from illness.
Can a Vaccinated Dog Still Catch Canine Cough?
Yes, although there is a smaller risk, vaccinated dogs can still contract canine cough. This is mainly because there are only vaccines available for about five pathogens when there are over ten in total, and vaccines take time to become effective. Therefore, dogs can still become sick in the time between when the vaccine is administered and when it takes effect.