Kennel Cough (or Canine Cough) is an upper respiratory infection caused by both a bacteria and a virus. It is also known as Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC) and Canine Infectious Tracheobronchitis as it affects the dog’s lungs, windpipe and voice box.

Although Kennel Cough is highly contagious and extremely uncomfortable, it usually can only be life-threatening in young puppies, geriatric dogs, and immune compromised dogs.

What Are Kennel Cough Symptoms Like?

Although Kennel Cough in dogs is not fatal, it does cause symptoms that make an infected dog quite miserable. The most common symptoms of Kennel Cough include:

1. A dry, hacking cough. This is a classic symptom. The cough is generally dry (although sometimes mucous can be expelled) and may be described as a “honking” noise. The cough is constant, persistent, and can be unsettling. Some dogs may experience a coughing fit every few minutes. Others may constantly be coughing as they are walking, lying down, or going about their daily activities. The cough is probably the most uncomfortable aspect for dogs (as can be seen and heard).

2. Fever. If the dog develops a fever, he probably has contracted a more severe form of the disease. Some dogs with Canine Cough appear perfectly normal and healthy, other than the fact that they are coughing all the time. But a low-grade fever indicates that his body is hard at work trying to fight off infection.

3. Lethargy. Not all dogs with this illness appear lethargic. Some do, while others appear perfectly normal. If the dog is lethargic, he will have decreased energy, poor appetite, lack of interest in activities he is usually excited about, minimal motivation, etc.

4. Discharge. Nasal discharge and watery, runny eyes are a common symptom of Kennel Cough. In most cases, the discharge will be clear but sometimes it can be slightly cloudy or discolored, the latter of which is usually a sign of secondary infection.

While these Kennel Cough symptoms may not sound like much to be concerned about – after all, don’t we all have these symptoms when we’re suffering from a harmless little cold? – they are taking a major toll on your dog’s body and his mental state.

If you suspect that your dog may have contracted this illness, have him seen by a vet immediately – don’t delay!

How long does Kennel Cough last?

Most dogs recover from Kennel Cough within 3-4 weeks. If a dog has a compromised immune system, is a young puppy or a senior, it may take up to 6 weeks for a complete recovery. However, the dog may still be a carrier of the disease for several weeks after he has recovered. The answer to exactly how long Kennel Cough lasts truly depends on the individual dog, but 3-6 weeks is a common time frame. 

If your dog has had Kennel Cough within 6 weeks prior to to your booking please contact us to discuss options.