What Is Kennel Cough—and Should You Be Worried?

Kennel cough sounds dramatic—and honestly, it can sound pretty scary when your dog is hacking away like they’ve got something stuck in their throat. But despite its alarming name, kennel cough (aka canine infectious respiratory disease complex, or CIRDC) is usually manageable and often mild. Still, it’s important to understand what you’re dealing with—and when to call us.

What Exactly Is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough is a contagious respiratory illness caused by a mix of bacteria and viruses, most commonly Bordetella bronchiseptica, canine parainfluenza virus, and adenovirus. Think of it like the canine version of a cold—except it’s much more contagious, especially in group settings like doggy daycare, boarding facilities, dog parks, and grooming salons.

Signs to Watch For

The classic symptom is that honking, dry cough, but your dog may also experience:

• Sneezing or nasal discharge
  
• Low energy
  
• Decreased appetite
  
• Mild fever
  

Some dogs may cough so hard they retch or gag. It’s uncomfortable, but in most healthy dogs, the illness runs its course in a week or two with minimal intervention.

When to Be Concerned

While kennel cough is often mild, puppies, senior dogs, or pets with compromised immune systems are at higher risk for complications like pneumonia. Call us if your dog:

• Has a persistent, worsening cough
  
• Becomes lethargic or refuses to eat
  
• Is breathing rapidly or struggling to breathe
  
• Develops thick nasal discharge or a high fever
  

It’s always better to be safe and let us take a look if you’re unsure.

How We Treat and Prevent Kennel Cough

Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and supportive care. In some cases, we may prescribe:

• Cough suppressants to ease discomfort
  
• Antibiotics if we suspect a bacterial infection
  
• Anti-inflammatories to reduce irritation
  

And yes—there’s a vaccine! We recommend the Bordetella vaccine for dogs who are regularly exposed to other dogs. While it doesn’t prevent every case, it can reduce the severity and spread of the disease.

Helping Your Dog Stay Healthy

To minimize your dog’s risk:

• Keep up with vaccinations
  
• Avoid crowded dog areas if there’s a known outbreak
  
• Choose well-ventilated, clean boarding and daycare facilities
  
• Isolate coughing dogs from others
  

At Partners Vet West Loop, we’re here to answer your questions and keep your pup feeling their best. If your dog’s got a cough you’re unsure about, don’t wait—give us a call or schedule a visit today.