Understanding Canine Cough: What dog owners need to know 

Canine infectious tracheobronchitis, commonly known as canine cough or kennel cough, is one of the most frequent respiratory illnesses seen in dogs at Bellarine Veterinary Practice in Geelong.  

Despite its name, dogs don’t need to visit a boarding kennel to contract it – any place where dogs socialise, from parks to grooming salons, can facilitate its spread. This highly contagious condition is typically caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria, most notably Bordetella bronchiseptica and canine parainfluenza virus.  

How is Canine Cough Contracted? 

Kennel cough develops when infectious agents irritate a dog’s upper respiratory tract, affecting the windpipe and voice box. These pathogens spread through airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing, as well as contact with contaminated surfaces such as bowls, toys, and even human hands or clothing. 

Dogs often catch it in social settings, so outbreaks are more common in environments with limited ventilation or where many dogs gather in close proximity such as dog parks, doggy daycare, grooming salons, boarding kennels and obedience classes.  

Very rarely cats can contract Bordatella bronchiseptica. Uncommonly it can also be contagious to humans and may pose a risk to immunocompromised individuals.  

Recognising the Signs 

Kennel cough is characterised by a persistent, dry, hacking or honking cough that many owners describe as sounding like a goose honk. Coughing can be triggered by pressure on the neck (collar pulling), excitement or activity.  

Other signs can include:  

• Sneezing 

• Nasal or eye discharge 

• Gagging or retching 

• Lethargy or reduced energy 

• A mild fever 

• Loss of appetite in more severe cases  

Signs typically develop 3-10 days after exposure, and while most healthy adult dogs recover within one to three weeks, puppies, elderly dogs, and those with underlying medical conditions may develop complications such as pneumonia or chronic bronchitis.  Unvaccinated dogs contract the disease more easily and tend to have more severe and longer lasting signs.   

Treatment and Recovery 

While the loud coughing can be distressing for both dogs and their owners, mild cases often resolve with rest and supportive care at home. Veterinary attention is recommended if the cough persists, the dog appears unwell, or signs worsen. Severe cases may require cough suppressants or antibiotics, especially in vulnerable dogs. 
Most dogs recover fully within two to three weeks, though some may take longer depending on age, health, and the infectious agents involved. 

Prevention: Protecting Your Dog and Community 

Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the severity of canine cough. Current vaccines generally target the main pathogens, including Bordetella bronchiseptica and parainfluenza virus, and can be administered orally, intranasally, or by injection. 
Good hygiene, avoiding shared items, and keeping unwell dogs isolated while contagious (usually for up to 2-3 weeks) also help limit the spread.  

We’re Here to Help 

If you suspect your dog may have canine cough or you’d like to discuss vaccination options, contact the team at Bellarine Veterinary Practice today on (03) 5248 2009 or click here to book online. Your pet’s health and comfort are our priority.