How Long After Exposure to Kennel Cough Do Dogs Start Showing Symptoms

Dogs typically start showing symptoms of kennel cough within 3 to 14 days after exposure.

The incubation period can vary depending on several factors, including the dog's age, health, and immune system.

Symptoms usually begin with a mild cough, which can progress to a more severe, hacking cough over time.

In some cases, dogs may not show any symptoms at all, but they can still be contagious and spread the virus to other dogs.

Kennel cough is a contagious respiratory disease caused by the bacterium Bordetella bronchiseptica, which is commonly found in dogs. It's highly contagious and can be spread through direct contact with an infected dog or by airborne transmission.

Symptoms of kennel cough can appear within 2-14 days after exposure, with the average incubation period being around 5-7 days.

Kennel cough is characterized by a persistent, hacking cough that can be accompanied by a runny nose, sneezing, and discharge from the eyes and nose.

Infected dogs may also exhibit a lack of appetite, lethargy, and difficulty breathing.

Consider reading: When Is Kennel Cough No Longer Contagious

Kennel cough in dogs can be caused by multiple bacteria and viruses, including Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria, Canine adenovirus, Parainfluenza virus, Mycoplasma, Canine influenza virus, Canine distemper virus, Canine respiratory corona virus, and Canine reovirus.

These pathogens can be spread through respiratory secretions, such as coughing or sneezing, as well as through contact with infected objects like shared toys or food and water bowls.

Dogs are typically exposed to kennel cough in crowded areas, including animal shelters, boarding kennels, dog daycare facilities, grooming facilities, and dog parks.

Some common culprits behind kennel cough include Bordetella bronchiseptica, Canine adenovirus, Parainfluenza virus, Mycoplasma, Canine influenza virus, Canine distemper virus, Canine respiratory corona virus, and Canine reovirus.

These pathogens can be prevented or protected against through vaccination, with standard vaccines available for some and additional vaccines available for others.

Here's a breakdown of some of the pathogens that can contribute to kennel cough and the vaccination options available for each:

Note: The vaccination options listed are based on the information provided in the article section facts.

Symptoms of kennel cough can appear about 5-10 days after exposure to an infected dog.

The classic symptom is a persistent, forceful cough that sounds like a goose honk. This can be accompanied by sneezing, a runny nose, or eye discharge.

Some dogs may also exhibit lethargy, loss of appetite, or low fever. However, these symptoms can be indicative of more serious diseases, such as canine distemper virus or canine influenza virus.

A diagnosis can be made based on the dog's symptoms, history, and response to therapy. In some cases, diagnostic testing may be recommended, especially if pneumonia is suspected, or if an outbreak is occurring in multiple dogs.

Here are some common symptoms of kennel cough:

Kennel cough can cause mild symptoms in some dogs, but it can progress to life-threatening pneumonia in others.

Dogs can develop kennel cough approximately two to 14 days after exposure.

The cough is often described as a dry, hacking sound, similar to a honk or a sharp, puffing cough.

In some cases, the cough may sound like your pup has something stuck in their throat.

Many dogs affected by kennel cough will act completely normal besides the cough itself.

However, some pups may require emergency veterinary care if they’re showing signs of pneumonia, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, and a greenish-yellow discharge from their nose.

The symptoms of kennel cough can vary, but one of the most obvious signs is a persistent, forceful cough that sounds like a goose honk. This cough can be dry and hacking, or accompanied by retching with white foam production.

In some cases, kennel cough may also cause sneezing, a runny nose, or eye discharge. However, these symptoms can also be indicative of a reverse sneeze, which is a normal occurrence in certain dogs and breeds.

A strong cough is often the first symptom you'll notice, and it can be accompanied by other signs such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or a low fever. These more severe symptoms can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition, such as canine distemper virus or canine influenza virus.

Some dogs may also exhibit tracheal sensitivity, where they cough when gentle pressure is applied to their trachea. This can be a sign that the kennel cough is severe and requires veterinary attention.

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Here are some common symptoms of kennel cough in dogs:

If your dog is experiencing these symptoms, it's essential to monitor their condition closely and seek veterinary attention if their symptoms worsen or persist.

Veterinarians diagnose kennel cough in dogs based on symptoms, history, and response to therapy. A diagnosis is typically made without identifying the underlying bacteria or virus.

However, diagnostic testing is recommended in certain situations, such as when pneumonia is suspected, the dog doesn't respond to supportive care, or the dog shows signs of systemic disease.

In cases where multiple dogs are affected, testing is also recommended to confirm infection and identify the specific bacteria or viruses involved. This is especially important in outbreak situations.

If your dog is showing symptoms of kennel cough, it's a good idea to call your veterinary clinic before taking your dog in to be seen. This will help prevent infecting other patients and ensure your dog gets the attention they need.

Here are some situations where diagnostic testing is recommended:

If your dog develops kennel cough, it's essential to keep them away from other animals to prevent the spread of the infection.

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

You can help your dog recover by keeping them in a well-humidified area, such as the bathroom while you shower, to keep their airways moist.

A humidifier in the room where your dog sleeps can also be beneficial in reducing coughing.

Your veterinarian may prescribe a cough suppressant to help reduce the frequency of the cough.

For mild cases of kennel cough, treatment may only include supportive care, focusing on rest, nutrition, and hydration.

It's crucial to avoid irritants such as household cleaners, cigarette smoke, and dust, which can cause more irritation and prolong your dog's recovery.

Using a harness instead of a collar during walks can also help minimize coughing.

Related reading: Dog Upper Respiratory Infection vs Kennel Cough

In severe cases, treatment may involve hospitalization, intravenous fluids, antibiotics, and possibly oxygen therapy.

If your dog doesn't improve within the expected amount of time, be sure to follow up with your veterinarian.

Here are some general guidelines for treating kennel cough:

It's essential to monitor your dog's symptoms and seek veterinary care if they show signs of rapid breathing, not eating, or listlessness.

Keeping your dog's vaccines current is key to protecting them against kennel cough and other respiratory infections. Vaccines not only reduce the chance of your dog becoming ill, but also make them less likely to develop severe disease or spread the infection to other dogs.

Many facilities and events where dogs are gathered, such as dog shows, training centers, and boarding facilities, require that dogs have certain vaccines. Your veterinarian will help you decide which vaccines your dog needs.

For optimal protection against common respiratory infections, an annual intranasal vaccine against Bordetella, canine adenovirus type 2, and canine parainfluenza is recommended for dogs of certain at-risk groups. This includes dogs whose lifestyles expose them to multiple-dog settings.

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Dogs can be contagious and still look perfectly healthy, so it's essential to take extra precautions to prevent the spread of kennel cough. Keeping your dog away from toys and food and water bowls used by dogs outside your household can help reduce the risk of transmission.

Here are some additional tips to help protect your dog:

By following these tips and staying on top of your dog's vaccinations, you can help protect them against kennel cough and other respiratory infections.