Kennel Cough & Your Dog

When dogs feel safe, they can rest, recover, and move through illness with more ease. But when something feels off in the body—like a persistent cough—it’s important we step in early and support them properly.

Kennel cough is something we see often, especially in dogs who spend time around other dogs. The good news? Most cases are mild. The key is knowing what to look for and understanding your individual dog.

What Is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough—medically known as Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex—is a contagious respiratory illness. It’s usually caused by a mix of viruses and bacteria, most commonly Bordetella Bronchiseptica.

Dogs can pick it up anywhere dogs are mingling and sharing space—like dog parks, group walks, or even quick nose-to-nose greetings on the street.

Mild Symptoms to Watch For...

Every dog expresses illness a little differently. Some will slow down, others will try to push through it. This is where knowing your dog really matters.

Common mild symptoms include:

• Dry, hacking cough (often that classic “goose honk” sound)

• Gagging or retching after coughing

• Sneezing or light nasal discharge

• Watery eyes

• Slight dip in energy

• Normal appetite

• Mild stomach upset, including occasional diarrhea

That digestive piece is often overlooked. When the immune system is working overtime, it can show up in the gut as well. Usually it’s mild, but it’s something to pay attention to.

When to Step In?

We don’t wait for things to escalate—we pay attention early.

Reach out to your vet if you notice:

• Cough becoming more frequent or intense

• Thick nasal discharge (yellow or green)

• Low energy or withdrawal

• Loss of appetite

• Ongoing or worsening diarrhea

• Any signs of laboured breathing

Some dogs will move through kennel cough quickly. Others need more support. The difference is often how early we catch it and how well we support the dog through it.

Which Dogs Need a Bit More Support?

All dogs can catch kennel cough, but some need a little more care and awareness:

Puppies

Still developing, still building their immune system.

Senior Dogs

Often a little less resilient, sometimes managing other underlying issues.

Dogs with Existing Health Conditions

Especially anything involving the respiratory system or immune function.

Flat-Faced & Short-Muzzled Breeds

Dogs with shorter airways can feel the effects more. This includes Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers. Coughing can be more intense, and recovery may take more time.

About the Bordetella Vaccination

Understanding what this vaccine does—and what it doesn’t do—is important.

Think of it like a flu shot in humans.

It doesn’t always prevent your dog from getting kennel cough. What it often does is reduce the severity and duration of symptoms. A vaccinated dog may still pick it up, but typically moves through it more easily than a dog without that layer of support.

At Urban Canine Adventures, an annual Bordetella vaccination is required for all dogs in our care. This helps reduce the overall spread and impact within group settings, while still recognizing that no vaccine eliminates risk entirely.

Supporting Your Dog

Recovery isn’t just about waiting it out—it’s about creating the right environment for healing.

• Prioritize rest and decompression

• Limit exposure to other dogs while they’re symptomatic

• Keep things calm, predictable, and low pressure

• Stay consistent with nutrition and hydration

When the nervous system is settled, the body can do what it’s meant to do—heal.

Final Thoughts

We don’t just look at the cough—we look at the whole dog.

Their energy, their behavior, their stress levels, their environment. All of it matters.

Kennel cough is common, and often mild. But early awareness, thoughtful support, and understanding your dog as an individual—that’s what makes the difference.

If something feels off, trust that. Step in early, support your dog, and reach out to your vet when needed.