Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory disease that affects dogs, particularly those in close contact with other dogs, such as in kennels, dog parks, or shelters. It’s caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria that infect the upper respiratory system. Although kennel cough is typically not fatal, it can be uncomfortable for your dog and requires treatment to prevent complications. In this article, we will explore how to know if your dog has kennel cough, its symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
What is Kennel Cough?
Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a contagious respiratory condition in dogs that causes a dry, hacking cough. It can be caused by several pathogens, including the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria, parainfluenza virus, adenovirus, and even canine influenza. These pathogens can irritate the dog’s trachea (windpipe) and cause inflammation, leading to coughing and other respiratory symptoms.
Kennel cough is commonly spread in environments where many dogs are in close quarters, such as dog boarding facilities, dog parks, and grooming salons. While it can affect dogs of any age or breed, puppies, older dogs, and those with compromised immune systems are at a higher risk of severe illness.
How to Know If My Dog Has Kennel Cough: Common Symptoms
The most common symptom of kennel cough is a persistent, dry cough that sounds like your dog is trying to clear its throat. However, there are several other symptoms you should watch for. If your dog exhibits any of the following signs, it could be a sign of kennel cough:
1. Persistent Coughing
The hallmark symptom of kennel cough is a persistent, dry, hacking cough. It often sounds like your dog is choking or has something stuck in their throat. The cough is usually triggered by excitement, exercise, or pressure on the neck. In severe cases, it can be persistent even at rest.
2. Sneezing
Along with coughing, sneezing is another common symptom of kennel cough. Sneezing can be accompanied by a nasal discharge, which may be clear or cloudy. While sneezing is common in dogs with kennel cough, it usually isn’t as severe as the coughing.
3. Watery Eyes and Nasal Discharge
In addition to coughing and sneezing, dogs with kennel cough may have watery eyes or nasal discharge. The discharge can range from clear and watery to thicker, yellowish mucus. This symptom is often indicative of an upper respiratory infection.
4. Lethargy or Decreased Activity
Dogs with kennel cough may become lethargic or less active than usual. While the disease is typically not severe, your dog may feel unwell and prefer to rest more than normal. You may notice that your dog is not as playful or energetic as usual.
5. Loss of Appetite
A decrease in appetite is common in dogs with kennel cough. The discomfort from coughing and the general feeling of illness may cause your dog to eat less or refuse food entirely. This can lead to weight loss if the condition persists.
6. Fever (In Severe Cases)
In some cases, dogs with kennel cough may develop a fever, especially if the infection spreads to the lower respiratory tract or leads to pneumonia. A fever is a sign of infection and warrants immediate veterinary attention. Symptoms of fever include a warm or hot nose, lethargy, and a lack of appetite.
7. Gagging or Retching
Dogs with kennel cough may occasionally gag or retch as a result of coughing. This may happen when your dog tries to clear their throat or when they are coughing excessively. This gagging is often followed by a burst of coughing.
How to Diagnose Kennel Cough
If your dog exhibits symptoms of kennel cough, it’s important to visit your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis. The diagnosis of kennel cough is typically based on your dog’s clinical signs and a physical examination. Here’s how veterinarians typically diagnose the condition:
1. Physical Examination and Symptom History
Your veterinarian will start by taking a thorough history of your dog’s symptoms and any recent exposure to other dogs. They will also listen to your dog’s chest and throat to assess the severity of the cough. A typical sign of kennel cough is a dog that coughs when pressure is applied to the trachea, which is the windpipe.
2. Laboratory Tests
If the symptoms suggest kennel cough, your vet may recommend laboratory tests, such as a blood test or nasal swab, to identify the specific pathogen causing the infection. This helps rule out other diseases or infections with similar symptoms, such as canine influenza or pneumonia.
3. X-rays or Chest Radiographs
In more severe cases, or if your dog’s symptoms do not improve with treatment, your vet may recommend chest x-rays to look for signs of pneumonia or other respiratory issues. X-rays can also help rule out other conditions like heart disease or foreign objects that may be causing the coughing.
Treatment for Kennel Cough
Most dogs with kennel cough recover within 2 to 3 weeks without the need for medication, but supportive care can help your dog feel more comfortable during recovery. In some cases, however, additional treatment may be necessary, particularly if the symptoms are severe or if there are complications. Here’s how kennel cough is typically treated:
1. Antibiotics
If a bacterial infection, such as Bordetella bronchiseptica, is diagnosed, your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics to target the bacteria. Antibiotics are typically used if your dog has a secondary bacterial infection, but they are not effective against viral causes of kennel cough.
2. Cough Suppressants
If the coughing is severe or causing discomfort, your vet may recommend cough suppressants to reduce the frequency and intensity of your dog’s coughing. However, coughing is a natural reflex that helps clear the airway, so cough suppressants are typically used only when necessary.
3. Rest and Hydration
It’s important to provide your dog with plenty of rest and keep them hydrated. Avoid vigorous exercise, as it can exacerbate the symptoms. Make sure your dog has access to fresh water at all times, and encourage them to drink to prevent dehydration.
4. Humidifiers or Steam
To soothe your dog’s irritated airways, you may want to use a humidifier or create a steam room by running a hot shower and letting your dog breathe in the moist air. This can help ease coughing and clear congestion in their nasal passages.
5. Hospitalization (In Severe Cases)
In severe cases, particularly if pneumonia or other complications develop, hospitalization may be required. Dogs with kennel cough that are severely dehydrated or have difficulty breathing may need intravenous fluids, oxygen therapy, and more intensive care.
Prevention of Kennel Cough
Prevention is key to reducing the risk of kennel cough. Here are some steps you can take to help protect your dog:
1. Vaccination
The Bordetella vaccine is the most effective way to prevent kennel cough, especially if your dog is frequently around other dogs. The vaccine doesn’t guarantee 100% protection, but it significantly reduces the severity of the disease. The Bordetella vaccine is available in injectable, oral, and intranasal forms, and your veterinarian can help determine which is best for your dog.
2. Avoid Exposure to Sick Dogs
If possible, avoid exposing your dog to environments where kennel cough is prevalent, such as crowded dog parks, kennels, or grooming salons. If you know that an outbreak is occurring in your area, it’s best to keep your dog away from these places until the risk has passed.
3. Good Hygiene
Maintaining good hygiene in areas where dogs gather is important to prevent the spread of kennel cough. This includes cleaning kennels, dog parks, and other communal spaces regularly to eliminate bacteria and viruses that can linger on surfaces.
4. Boosting Immune Health
Ensure your dog is in good health with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary check-ups. A strong immune system can help prevent infections like kennel cough.
Conclusion: How to Know If My Dog Has Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is a common and highly contagious respiratory disease in dogs, with coughing being the primary symptom. If your dog is coughing persistently, sneezing, has nasal discharge, or shows signs of lethargy and loss of appetite, it may have kennel cough. Contact your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. With proper care, most dogs recover from kennel cough within a few weeks. Preventing kennel cough through vaccination and reducing exposure to other sick dogs is the best way to keep your dog healthy.