What Is Kennel Cough?
Kennel cough, known medically as infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection of dogs. Despite the name, it is not limited to dogs that have stayed in kennels — it can be picked up anywhere dogs gather, from dog parks and training classes to veterinary waiting rooms and grooming salons. It is one of the most common respiratory conditions seen in dogs across Europe.
Kennel cough is not caused by a single pathogen. It is instead a complex of several bacteria and viruses that can act alone or in combination, which is part of what makes it so persistent in dog populations.
Pathogens Involved
The most significant agents involved in kennel cough include:
- Bordetella bronchiseptica — the most well-known bacterial cause and typically the most clinically significant. Named after the genus that also causes whooping cough in humans, though the canine strain is distinct.
- Canine Parainfluenza Virus (CPiV) — a major viral contributor that is highly transmissible and often acts together with Bordetella
- Canine Adenovirus type 2 (CAV-2) — another viral pathogen involved in respiratory disease, covered by many core vaccines
- Canine Distemper Virus — in unvaccinated populations, distemper can cause respiratory signs that overlap with kennel cough, though it is a far more severe systemic disease
- Mycoplasma species — bacterial organisms that can complicate or prolong infection, particularly in dogs with weakened immunity
Recognising the Classic Cough
The sound of kennel cough is unmistakable once you have heard it, and it is one that frequently alarms owners. It is a harsh, dry, forceful cough — often described as honking or goose-like — that can be remarkably loud for the size of the dog. Episodes frequently end with the dog retching or bringing up a small amount of white or clear foam. This retching often causes owners to believe the dog is choking or has something stuck in its throat, and some rush to emergency vets believing the dog is in immediate danger.
The cough is typically worse after exercise, excitement, or when pressure is placed on the trachea — for example, when a lead is pulled. Despite the dramatic sound, most dogs with uncomplicated kennel cough remain alert, eat well, and maintain normal energy levels between coughing bouts.
How Kennel Cough Spreads
Kennel cough is extremely contagious. It spreads through direct dog-to-dog contact, through airborne droplets produced by coughing, and through contact with contaminated surfaces such as shared water bowls, toys, and leads. Infection can also travel on the hands and clothing of people who have been in contact with an infected dog. The incubation period is typically two to fourteen days, which means a dog can be incubating the infection and shedding it before any symptoms appear.
Vaccination Options in Europe
Vaccination against kennel cough is highly recommended, particularly for any dog that has regular contact with other dogs. Across Europe, owners have access to several types of vaccine, and the available formats differ from those used in some other parts of the world.
Intranasal Vaccines
The most widely used kennel cough vaccine across Europe is the intranasal format, with Nobivac KC being one of the most commonly available. This vaccine is administered as liquid drops into the nostrils rather than by injection. It contains both Bordetella bronchiseptica and Canine Parainfluenza Virus antigens and produces immunity in the nasal mucosa — exactly where the pathogens first establish infection. A major advantage of intranasal vaccines is speed: they can provide protection within 72 hours of administration, making them useful when kennelling is booked at short notice. However, most boarding kennels and holiday care providers require vaccination at least two to three weeks before arrival, so do not leave it too late.
Injectable Vaccines
Components providing protection against CAV-2 and Canine Distemper Virus are typically included as part of the core injectable combination vaccines given annually or every three years. These form an important part of the overall protective picture, particularly against viral components of kennel cough.
Oral Vaccines
Oral kennel cough vaccines targeting Bordetella have become available in a growing number of European countries in recent years. These are administered as liquid drops into the mouth and are well-tolerated by most dogs. Uptake varies by country, and availability should be confirmed with your vet.
Vaccination Requirements for Boarding
If you plan to board your dog in Europe, check the kennel's vaccination requirements well in advance of your booking. Most reputable boarding facilities require evidence of current kennel cough vaccination, in addition to standard core vaccinations. Requirements vary between establishments, so confirm directly with the facility what they need and how recently the vaccination must have been given.
Dogs at Higher Risk
While kennel cough can affect any dog, certain groups are at greater risk of developing a more severe illness.
- Brachycephalic breeds — dogs with flat faces and compromised airways, such as Pugs, French Bulldogs, and English Bulldogs, are more likely to develop complications
- Elderly dogs — older dogs with reduced immune function may develop secondary bacterial pneumonia
- Immunocompromised dogs — those on immunosuppressive medications or with chronic illness
- Puppies — particularly those under six months of age whose immune systems are still developing
Treatment
The majority of otherwise healthy adult dogs with uncomplicated kennel cough recover fully without specific treatment within one to three weeks. During this time, rest and isolation from other dogs are the most important measures. Walks should be kept calm and short, and lead pressure on the trachea minimised by using a harness rather than a collar. Fresh water should be available at all times.
Where there is a significant bacterial component — evidenced by thick nasal discharge, lethargy, or prolonged illness — your vet may prescribe antibiotics. Cough suppressants may occasionally be prescribed to improve quality of life during recovery but are not appropriate in all cases.
When to See the Vet Urgently
Seek veterinary advice promptly if your dog develops thick yellow or green nasal or eye discharge, becomes lethargic, loses appetite, shows laboured or rapid breathing, or if symptoms worsen rather than improve after a few days. Puppies, elderly dogs, and brachycephalic breeds should be seen earlier rather than later, as they are less able to cope with respiratory compromise.
Distinguishing Kennel Cough from Other Conditions
Not every cough is kennel cough. Tracheal collapse produces a chronic honking cough often triggered by excitement, but typically occurs in small and toy breeds without the infectious context. Heart disease cough tends to be softer and more persistent and is usually accompanied by exercise intolerance. A foreign body lodged in the throat causes acute distress, pawing at the mouth, and retching. If you are uncertain about your dog's cough, a veterinary examination will establish the cause efficiently.