Canine Cough Awareness: Protect Your Pup This Season

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your veterinarian before making changes to your pup’s health, diet, or routine. Your veterinarian can provide guidance tailored to your pup's individual health needs.Reminder to always consult your veterinarian. For additional details, click here for American Veterinary Medical Association information.

As colder weather brings more time indoors and social settings, it’s essential to stay informed about Canine Cough— often called kennel cough — and how you can help protect your pup.

What is Canine Cough?

Canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC), is a highly contagious illness affecting the respiratory tract in pups. All breeds and ages are susceptible. Just like children who catch colds in daycare, pups can pick up Canine Cough in spaces where they interact with other pups—such as dog parks, grooming salons, and boarding facilities. Several different types of bacteria and viruses can contribute to CIRDC, and pups can be infected by two or more of these organisms at the same time. A few of the more commonly involved organisms include Bordetella bronchiseptica (a bacterium) as well as canine parainfluenza virus and canine adenovirus type 2.

What are the signs of Canine Cough?

Symptoms can range from mild (a dry, hacking cough) to more severe, especially for puppies, seniors, or pups with compromised immune systems. The classic sign of CIRDC is a frequent, honking cough that comes on suddenly. Coughing generally worsens with activity or exercise, which can irritate the airways. Even so, not all pups with CIRDC will have a cough. Other common signs include sneezing and a runny nose or eyes.

How is it Spread?

Canine Cough is spread through various bacteria and viruses, the most common being Bordetella bronchiseptica. Here’s examples of how pups can catch it:

Airborne Droplets: If an infected pup coughs, sneezes, or even barks, tiny droplets carrying the infection can linger in the air, making it easy for other pups to breathe them in.
Shared Surfaces: The bacteria and viruses can survive on surfaces, meaning pups can pick it up from shared water bowls, toys, bedding, and floors.
Contact with Clothing or Hands: If you’ve recently been around an infected pup, the bacteria or virus particles can be carried on your clothing or hands and passed on to your pup through contact.

What Does the Bordetella Vaccine Do?

The Bordetella vaccine specifically targets the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacterium:

Protection: The vaccine reduces the risk of infection and lessens symptom severity if a pup is exposed.
Limitations: While helpful, the Bordetella vaccine doesn’t protect against all strains of Canine Cough, as other viruses (such as parainfluenza and adenovirus) can also cause similar symptoms.

Common Myths About Canine Cough

There’s a lot of misinformation about Canine Cough and the Bordetella vaccine. Here’s what you should know:

Myth: “My pup is vaccinated, so they’re fully protected.”
Fact: The Bordetella vaccine significantly reduces risk but doesn’t cover all possible causes of Canine Cough. Think of it as a layer of protection, not a guarantee.
Myth: “Only pups that are boarded are at risk for Canine Cough.”
Fact: Canine Cough can be contracted anywhere pups come into contact with each other, like dog parks, grooming facilities, or even playdates and pup walk greetings.
Myth: “If my pup has Canine Cough, they don’t need to see a vet.”

Fact: While mild cases can resolve on their own, it’s best to consult a vet, especially if your pup has a persistent cough, nasal discharge, or reduced energy.

How to Keep Your Pup Safe

Vaccinate: The best way to protect your pup against CIRDC is to keep his or her vaccines current. Vaccines not only reduce the chance of your pup becoming ill, they also make your pup less likely to develop severe disease or spread the infection to other pups.
Watch for Symptoms: If your pup shows any respiratory symptoms, keep them away from other pups and check with your vet.
Practice Good Hygiene: Clean your pup’s items (beds, toys, bowls) frequently, especially after exposure to other pups.
Communicate: Inform anyone whose pup may have been in contact with yours, and avoid taking your pup to daycare, boarding, or other social settings until they are symptom-free.

By staying informed and taking precautions, you can help protect your pup and enjoy a safe, social season!