Facts About Canine Cough
Infectious Tracheobronchitis, also known as Canine Cough, is often incorrectly referred to as “Kennel Cough”. As a dog owner, it’s helpful to understand what it is, how it spreads, what symptoms to watch for, and what to do if your dog develops a cough.
What is Canine Cough?
Infectious tracheobronchitis, commonly known as Canine Cough, is a highly transmissible respiratory infection spread primarily through airborne viruses. After exposure, dogs typically develop symptoms within 3-7 days. The most recognisable sign is a distinctive hacking or gagging cough, often joined by nasal discharge and sneezing episodes. These symptoms may persist anywhere from several days to multiple weeks.
While the persistent coughing can be concerning for pet owners, tracheobronchitis rarely progresses to severe illness. However, similar to how common colds affect humans, this condition can weaken your dog’s immune defences, potentially leading to secondary infections. Close observation of your pet is essential during recovery to prevent complications.
Common symptoms
Gagging cough
Vomiting
Sneezing
Nasal discharge
Lethargy
How is Canine Cough treated?
Canine Cough often needs to run its course. In some cases, a veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics (to help prevent secondary infections) and/or anti-inflammatories (to reduce excessive coughing and discomfort). These medications can help manage symptoms, but they do not directly “attack” the virus itself.
Where can dogs contract Canine Cough?
It’s important to understand that Tracheobronchitis isn’t exclusive to dogs staying in kennels. The responsible viruses can travel significant distances through the air, potentially affecting any dog, even those that remain within the confines of their home environment.
The likelihood of infection increases in environments with higher dog populations, such as:
Dog exhibitions and shows
Boarding kennels
Dog Parks
Veterinary clinics and hospitals
Pet shops and stores
Dogs may also encounter these viruses during walks or when interacting with other dogs in public spaces.
Dogs in boarding facilities do face increased risk of tracheobronchitis for two main reasons:
• Proximity to potentially contagious dogs
• The stress and excitement of unfamiliar surroundings, which can compromise immune function
This explains why, like schoolchildren catching colds more frequently than children at home, kennelled dogs have higher exposure risks. Interestingly, regular boarding may help your dog develop immunity to these viruses. Even during widespread outbreaks, only a relatively small percentage of dogs typically become infected.
Our policy is to only accept dogs who are appropriately immunised, and our team monitors all pets closely. Any signs of illness are promptly attended to to help maintain the health and safety of every dog in our care.
Can my dog still get Canine Cough if they’re vaccinated?
Unfortunately, yes. Vaccines are preventative, and the current Canine Cough vaccination covers two strains, while there are many. Vaccines targeting parainfluenza and adenovirus type 2 are standard components of adult dogs’ annual health examinations. Puppies typically receive these vaccinations in combination with immunisations for distemper, hepatitis and parvovirus.
It’s worth noting that current vaccines are developed from specific viral strains among over 100 different variants, meaning protection varies across different strains. Intra-nasal vaccines specifically targeting Bordetella Bronchiseptica (another common cause of canine cough) are also available. While not all veterinary practices administer these routinely, they may be recommended for dogs that frequently board or based on your veterinarian’s assessment. Your vet remains the best resource for developing a preventative health programme tailored to your dog’s specific needs.
Vaccination requirements for boarding
We require a C5 vaccination, which covers:
Parvovirus
Distemper
Hepatitis
Two strains of Canine Cough
The Canine Cough component must be administered every 12 months to maintain effectiveness. Parvo, Distemper, and Hepatitis may be given annually or every three years (as advised by your veterinarian).
Vaccination certificates must be provided prior to arrival. If a certificate cannot be produced, we are unable to accept your dog for boarding. This helps protect not only your dog, but all dogs in our care.
Can boarding facilities prevent Canine Cough?
Despite best efforts, boarding kennels cannot completely prevent the spread of airborne viruses regardless of hygiene standards or personalised care. Quality boarding facilities will:
Recommend appropriate vaccinations
Decline accommodation for visibly ill dogs
Monitor for signs of illness (noting that dogs with parainfluenza may be contagious without showing obvious symptoms)
Ensure prompt veterinary attention when needed
Pet owners should understand they bear financial responsibility for any veterinary care required during their dog’s stay.
What happens at home if my dog shows symptoms?
If your dog is diagnosed with Canine Cough:
Keep your dog at home
Ensure they have no contact with dogs outside your household
Do not take them to boarding facilities, dog parks, or other social settings
Follow your veterinarian’s treatment recommendations
One of the biggest challenges with this condition is that dogs can spread the virus before showing symptoms, making it difficult to determine which dogs are contagious. This means the risk is always present whenever your dog is around other pets.
Key points to remember
Canine Cough is one of the most common respiratory diseases in dogs
It can be transmitted anywhere dogs gather, not just in boarding facilities
No amount of supervision or sanitation can completely prevent this airborne virus
The best protection is ensuring your pet is fully vaccinated with yearly boosters
It is often incorrectly referred to as “Kennel Cough”, although it can be transmitted anywhere that dogs gather, and even in your own home from dogs passing by your yard who are infected.
The term Kennel Cough used incorrectly is now considered to be factually wrong and has resulted in litigation against users of the term. This virus is not caused or related to a Kennel, it is a virus that can be contracted in countless places.
Where can I go for extra information?
For all health concerns and medical advice regarding your pet, please contact your trusted veterinarian.
We recommend reading PIAA factsheet about Canine Cough
If you have any concerns or questions, please feel free to contact us.