Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease: Dog Flu and Kennel Cough
Coughing dogs may have infectious respiratory disease. Learn about the different causes, treatment, and prevention.
Canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC), often called 'kennel cough,' is a group of highly contagious respiratory infections. Multiple viruses and bacteria can cause it, and affected dogs typically develop a persistent, honking cough. While usually mild, it can progress to pneumonia in vulnerable dogs.
- Multiple pathogens cause kennel cough — not just one
- The hallmark is a persistent, honking cough
- Highly contagious in places where dogs congregate
- Most cases resolve on their own in 1-3 weeks
- Puppies, seniors, and immunocompromised dogs are at higher risk
- Vaccination reduces severity and spread
What Causes It
CIRDC is caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria, including Bordetella bronchiseptica (the most common bacterial cause), canine parainfluenza virus, canine adenovirus, canine influenza virus, and Mycoplasma. Dogs typically get infected in places where many dogs gather — boarding kennels, dog parks, grooming facilities, and shelters.
Signs and Symptoms
The classic sign is a persistent, forceful, honking cough that sounds like something is stuck in the throat. Other signs include sneezing, nasal discharge (clear initially, may become yellow-green if bacterial), lethargy, and reduced appetite. Most dogs remain bright and alert. If your dog becomes lethargic, stops eating, or develops difficulty breathing, the disease may be progressing to pneumonia.
Treatment
Most mild cases resolve on their own in 1-3 weeks with rest and supportive care. Your vet may prescribe cough suppressants for comfort, antibiotics if a bacterial infection is suspected, and anti-inflammatories. Keep your dog away from other dogs during recovery (contagious for 2-3 weeks). Honey (1 teaspoon for medium dogs) can soothe the throat.
Prevention
Vaccines are available for Bordetella and canine influenza — they don't prevent infection entirely but reduce severity. Most boarding kennels require Bordetella vaccination. Avoid exposing puppies to large groups of dogs until fully vaccinated. Good ventilation and hygiene in boarding facilities reduce transmission.
- Cough lasting more than a week
- Fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite
- Yellow-green nasal discharge
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
- Puppy or senior dog with cough
- Cough that's getting worse instead of better
RVC
RVC can diagnose respiratory infections and provide treatment. We offer Bordetella and canine influenza vaccines for dogs at risk. Call +853 6677 6611.
+853 6677 6611