How Long Does Kennel Cough Last in Dogs

Kennel cough can be a real drag for dogs and their owners. Typically, kennel cough lasts around 10 to 14 days.

The duration of kennel cough varies depending on several factors, including the severity of the infection and the dog's overall health. Some cases may resolve within a week or less.

Symptoms often start with a mild cough that can quickly escalate into a full-blown hacking fit. In some cases, dogs may also develop a fever, runny nose, and loss of appetite.

Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection that affects dogs.

It's caused by bacteria and viruses, with Bordetella bronchiseptica being one of the most common culprits.

This infection can spread quickly through airborne droplets when an infected dog coughs or sneezes.

Symptoms typically appear within 3-14 days after exposure to an infected dog.

Here's an interesting read: Difference between Kennel Cough and Upper Respiratory Infection

The primary sign of kennel cough is a dry-sounding, spasmodic cough caused by pathogens that induce inflammation of the trachea and bronchi.

Some dogs also develop conjunctivitis, rhinitis, and a nasal discharge, but they usually remain active and alert and continue to eat well.

Affected dogs often retch and cough up a white foamy discharge after a coughing spell.

In some cases, your veterinarian may want to perform diagnostic tests such as a complete blood count (CBC), chest x-ray, and laboratory analysis of the microorganisms inhabiting your dog's airways if they are depressed, feverish, or expelling a thick yellow or green discharge from their nose.

Your veterinarian can typically diagnose kennel cough from a physical exam and history.

Broaden your view: Kennel Cough Nose Discharge

The primary sign of kennel cough is a dry-sounding, spasmodic cough caused by pathogens that induce inflammation of the trachea and bronchi.

At the end of a coughing spell, dogs will often retch and cough up a white foamy discharge.

Some dogs also develop conjunctivitis, rhinitis, and nasal discharge.

Affected dogs usually remain active and alert and continue to eat well.

If you suspect your dog has kennel cough, isolate it from other dogs and call your veterinarian immediately.

The characteristic cough can be easily elicited by massaging the dog's larynx or trachea during a physical exam.

Intriguing read: Kennel Cough Eye Discharge

If you suspect your dog might have CIRDC, start by calling your veterinary clinic and describing any signs you've noticed.

The first step to getting a diagnosis is actually a visit to the veterinarian. They'll recommend next steps to help your dog without infecting other patients.

Your veterinarian will likely make a "presumptive" diagnosis of CIRDC 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.

In most cases, if your dog has mild CIRDC, they'll improve quickly without needing diagnostic tests. Your vet will just keep a close eye on them.

However, testing is recommended when multiple dogs are affected, or if your dog seems to be getting worse despite supportive treatment.

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Kennel cough can be spread through airborne droplets, direct contact with other dogs, and contaminated surfaces.

Dogs commonly contract kennel cough at places where many dogs gather, such as dog parks, daycare facilities, training groups, and shows.

The bordetella bacterium is the most common cause of kennel cough, but it's not the only one - other germs like canine adenovirus type 2 and parainfluenza virus can also trigger the illness.

A vaccine for kennel cough is available to protect against the bordetella bacterium, but it may not prevent all cases since other germs can cause the disease as well.

The vaccine typically requires two doses given two to four weeks apart, followed by a booster every six months to a year.

Intriguing read: Bordetella Vaccine vs Kennel Cough

Treatment for kennel cough typically involves a week or so of rest and supportive care.

Your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infection, as well as cough suppressant medication to ease symptoms.

Antibiotics are usually not necessary unless there are signs of bacterial pneumonia, such as illness lasting more than 10 days.

Rest is crucial for recovery, which means avoiding excitement and neck leashes that can irritate airways.

Additional reading: Antibiotics for Kennel Cough for Dogs

Kennel cough can be caused by a number of different airborne bacteria and viruses, typically triggered when a dog spends time with other dogs.

Dog parks, dog shows, frequent travel, and kennels have a higher risk of developing kennel cough than dogs that stay at home most of the time.

A multifaceted attack from these pathogens is often necessary to trigger illness, similar to how colds and flu can spread quickly in schools or daycares.

Mild cases of kennel cough are treated with a week or so of rest and supportive care, similarly to treating your own common cold.

Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent secondary bacterial infection, as well as cough suppressant medication to ease symptoms and help you sleep.

Using a dog harness rather than a collar is helpful when walking a dog with kennel cough, as irritation of the tracheal area can aggravate the cough and cause damage.

On a similar theme: When to Worry about Kennel Cough

CIRDC treatment is tailored to each dog's severity of illness.

Most dogs with mild CIRDC will recover quickly with basic supportive care that avoids situations that irritate their airways.

This means encouraging your dog to rest and avoiding excitement and neck leashes, which can make symptoms worse.

Dogs with more severe illness may benefit from nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications to reduce fever and inflammation.

Fluids are also often given to treat dehydration in these cases.

Antibiotics aren't usually necessary unless there's a sign of bacterial pneumonia, such as an illness lasting over 10 days.

Keeping your dog's vaccines current is essential for protecting them against CIRDC. Vaccines not only reduce the chance of illness but also make your dog less likely to develop severe disease or spread the infection to other dogs.

Dogs can be contagious and still look perfectly healthy, so it's crucial to keep an eye on their behavior and health. This means keeping a close eye on any signs of illness, such as coughing, sneezing, or lethargy.

To further reduce the risk of CIRDC, make sure your dog is not exposed to toys and food and water bowls used by dogs outside your household. These can be breeding grounds for germs that can cause CIRDC.

Stay informed about places where CIRDC has been reported by asking your veterinarian or checking news or internet resources. This will help you make informed decisions about traveling with your dog.

If outbreaks are occurring in a particular area, consider delaying or avoiding travel with your dog to keep them safe. Your veterinarian can provide guidance on the best course of action for your dog's specific needs.