How Long Does Kennel Cough Last After Exposure to Infected Dogs

Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory disease that affects dogs of all ages.

The incubation period of kennel cough can range from 2 to 14 days after exposure to infected dogs.

Symptoms can start anywhere within this timeframe, but most dogs begin showing signs within 5 to 7 days.

The duration of kennel cough can vary from dog to dog, but most dogs recover within 2 to 3 weeks.

For more insights, see: Canine Parvovirus 2 Life Cycle

Symptoms of kennel cough can start within 3 to 10 days of exposure, so keep an eye out for those early signs.

The classic symptom is a persistent dry hacking cough, like a goose honk, which can be very forceful and even cause your dog to bring up phlegm.

Some dogs with kennel cough may also show other symptoms, such as sneezing, a runny nose, or eye discharge.

A reduced appetite and fever can also be signs of kennel cough in some dogs.

For another approach, see: Symptoms of Food Allergies in Dogs

The cough can be so irritating that it may even hurt your dog's throat, but don't panic, it's usually harmless and will go away within a couple of weeks.

In rare cases, kennel cough can lead to further complications, such as a fever and lethargy, but these are rare and with treatment, your dog will still recover.

In extremely rare cases, kennel cough can lead to pneumonia, which is a serious condition, but it's still relatively rare.

Most dogs with kennel cough recover completely within 1 to 3 weeks, though it can take up to 6 weeks in older dogs or those with other medical conditions.

Keeping your dog isolated from other dogs for around two weeks is usually recommended, but this can vary depending on the severity of the infection.

If your dog doesn't improve within the expected amount of time, be sure to follow up with your veterinarian, as serious, ongoing kennel cough infection can lead to pneumonia.

In some cases, antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and cough suppressants may be given to speed recovery and minimize symptoms.

If your dog has symptoms of rapid breathing, not eating, or listlessness, contact your vet right away, as these could be signs of more serious conditions.

Consider reading: Difference between Kennel Cough and Upper Respiratory Infection

Most dogs with kennel cough recover completely within 1 to 3 weeks.

Kennel cough can last up to 6 weeks in older dogs or those with other medical conditions.

Keep an eye on your dog's symptoms, and follow up with your veterinarian if they don't improve within the expected amount of time.

If your dog has symptoms of rapid breathing, not eating, or listlessness, contact your vet right away, as these could be signs of more serious conditions.

Treating kennel cough is a crucial step in helping your dog recover from the condition.

Most cases will resolve without treatment, but medications may be used to speed recovery or minimize symptoms during the course of infection.

Antibiotics that target the Bordetella bacteria, cough suppressants, and anti-inflammatory medicines are commonly prescribed by veterinarians.

Keeping your dog in a well-humidified area and using a harness instead of a collar can also help minimize the coughing.

It's essential to follow up with your veterinarian if your dog doesn't improve within the expected amount of time, as serious, ongoing kennel cough infection can lead to pneumonia.

If your dog shows symptoms of rapid breathing, not eating, or listlessness, contact your vet right away, as these could be signs of more serious conditions.

In some cases, antibiotics and cough suppressants may be given to speed the recovery and minimize symptoms.

It's also crucial to keep your dog away from other dogs for around two weeks, as kennel cough is highly contagious to other dogs.

Generally, dogs recover completely within three weeks, although this can be longer in older dogs, puppies, or sick patients.

You might enjoy: Kennel Cough Getting Worse

Preventing kennel cough is crucial to avoid the discomfort and risk of infection. There are three forms of vaccine for kennel cough, but none guarantee protection against it.

The intranasal and oral kennel cough vaccinations are typically given to dogs once a year, but sometimes recommended every 6 months for dogs at high risk for kennel cough.

Canine infectious tracheobronchitis, or Kennel Cough, is a common upper respiratory tract infection in dogs, caused by a variety of bacteria and viruses.

The most common cause is a bacterium called Bordetella bronchiseptica, which is highly contagious and easily spread among dogs in close living spaces.

Dogs catch Kennel Cough when they inhale bacteria or viruses into their respiratory tract, causing inflammation of the larynx and trachea.

The virus can also be spread through contaminated surfaces, which is why it's essential to keep your dog's environment clean and hygienic.

Kennel Cough is highly contagious and can be spread through airborne droplets from other dogs coughing or sneezing in close proximity.

Factors that can increase the risk of developing Kennel Cough include exposure to crowded or poorly ventilated conditions, such as in kennels and rescue centres.

Here are some factors that can increase your dog's risk of getting Kennel Cough:

Canine parainfluenza virus is a common cause of kennel cough, and protection against it is available through standard vaccines.

Bordetella bronchiseptica is another major contributor to kennel cough, and it's often referred to as the most common cause of the disease. This bacteria can work with other viruses, such as canine distemper or canine parainfluenza, to weaken a dog's immune system.

Readers also liked: Most Common Dog Diseases

Canine influenza virus, specifically subtypes H3N2 and H3N8, can also contribute to kennel cough. These subtypes are mentioned as requiring additional vaccines for protection.

Other organisms that can contribute to kennel cough include canine adenovirus type 2, canine respiratory coronavirus, canine herpesvirus-1, and canine distemper virus. These viruses can be protected against through standard vaccines.

Here are some contributing organisms to kennel cough:

These organisms can be spread through airborne droplets, contaminated surfaces, and animal interactions, making it essential to take precautions to prevent kennel cough.

Preventing kennel cough is crucial to keep your furry friend healthy. There are three forms of vaccine available: injectable, nasal mist, and oral.

The nasal mist and oral kennel cough vaccinations are usually given once a year, but high-risk dogs may need them every 6 months.

These forms of the vaccine tend to provide protection sooner than the injected product.

A different take: Nasal Discharge Kennel Cough

Diagnosing CIRDC typically starts with a visit to the veterinarian, where you'll describe any signs you've noticed in your dog.

Your veterinarian will recommend next steps to help your dog get the attention they need, without infecting other patients.

If your dog has mild CIRDC, they'll likely improve quickly, and no diagnostic tests are needed.

Your veterinarian will make a "presumptive" diagnosis by examining your dog for signs of illness, ruling out other causes of cough, and asking about exposure to other dogs or multiple-dog settings.

They may also know about other cases of CIRDC in the area, which can strengthen their suspicions.

In cases where multiple dogs are affected or your dog is getting worse despite supportive treatment, testing is recommended.

Your veterinarian will collect swab samples from the throat, nose, and/or edges of the eyes and submit them for lab testing to confirm infection and identify the specific bacteria/viruses involved.

Less commonly, blood tests may be recommended.

CIRDC is highly contagious and can spread rapidly, especially in multiple-dog settings. This is because dogs often start showing signs after they've already infected others.

Dogs can catch CIRDC through close or direct contact with infected dogs, such as licking or nuzzling. They can also get infected by breathing in cough or sneeze droplets from infected dogs.

Exposure to droplet-contaminated items like toys, bedding, people's hands, or water bowls can also spread the infection. The risk of infection is especially high when dogs are in close contact with other infected dogs for long periods of time.

CIRDC-associated organisms can survive in the environment for weeks, making it difficult to control the spread of infection.

Additional reading: Kennel Cough Spreading

If your dog's cough lasts more than a week or worsens, it's time to see the vet. Their normal body temperature is 100 to 102.5 degrees F, but if they have a fever, it's a sign they're not feeling well.

Severe fatigue is another red flag - if your dog seems extra tired, it's worth a vet visit. Not eating is also a concern, so keep an eye on their appetite. If your dog has other health problems, it's best to err on the side of caution and consult with a vet.

Here are some specific signs that warrant a vet visit:

The vet will also ask about your dog's recent activities and health history. They'll want to know where your dog has been lately, if they've been around other dogs, and if they're up-to-date on their vaccinations and heartworm prevention.