Causes, Signs, Treatment, and Prevention of Infectious Canine Cough

What Is CIRDC?

CIRDC, often referred to as “kennel cough,” is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by infection with one or more viruses and/or bacteria that can affect your dog's respiratory tract. All breeds and ages are susceptible. Dogs are particularly at risk when exposed to settings where multiple dogs typically gather or live. These communal places include shelters, daycare facilities, or kennels (hence the name “kennel cough”). However anywhere that a dog is engaged in “social” activities with other dogs can introduce risk. Therefore, it would be more apt to use the term “canine cough”. There are several different types of bacteria and viruses that can contribute to CIRDC, and dogs can even be infected by more than one.

Bordetella bronchiseptica

B. bronchiseptica is a bacterium that spreads through direct and indirect contact such as licking, nuzzling, or sharing of contaminated objects. It can also be spread through the air as a result of coughing or sneezing. Transmission is possible between cats and dogs. CIRDC, or “canine cough”, is sometimes referred to simply as “Bordetella”.

Canine Parainfluenza Virus (CPIV)

Canine parainfluenza virus (CPIV) is a highly contagious respiratory virus typically transmitted through the air and spreads rapidly through spaces where large numbers of dogs are kept together in close quarters.

Canine Adenovirus Type 2 (CAV-2)

Canine adenovirus Type 2 (CAV-2) is spread directly from dog to dog through infected respiratory secretions and contact with contaminated feces or urine.

What Are Some Signs of CIRDC?

• The most common and prevalent symptom of canine cough is a persistent, forceful cough that can sound like a goose honk. This cough has also been described as a gagging or retching, sometimes accompanied by a froth that is similar to vomit. The cough can worsen after exercise.
• Some dogs may show other signs such as sneezing, a runny nose, or eye discharge. In more severe infections, your dog may suffer from lethargy, decreased appetite, fever, and rapid or labored breathing. The latter can indicate a more serious infection, and immediate veterinary attention is needed.

Are There Treatments for CIRDC Available?

• The majority of cases will resolve without medications. However, your veterinarian may prescribe medications depending on the severity. 
• If you suspect your dog has CIRDC, talk to your veterinarian immediately. You can also try to minimize coughing by keeping your dog in a well-humidified area and using a harness as opposed to a collar. Remember, CIRDC is incredibly infectious. While your dog is recovering, try to keep them away from other dogs.

Is There a Way to Help Prevent CIRDC?

Because CIRDC pathogens can be airborne, normal cleaning and disinfecting of kennel surfaces won’t completely eliminate the chances your dog can be infected. The best way to help protect your dog is to keep him up to date on his vaccinations.

Vaccination against CIRDC is considered a non-core vaccine, which means your veterinarian will recommend the vaccine based on your pet’s lifestyle and risk factors. There are multiple types of vaccines for CIRDC, including oral and intranasal. Speak to your veterinarian about which options they offer and recommend. Intranasal and oral vaccines work quickly (one study showed onset of an oral vaccine within 1 week of administration), and they do not require a booster again for a year if given orally or intranasally.¹

Important Things to Know

Remember, not every cough is CIRDC. There are numerous causes of cough in dogs, some more serious than others. Don’t take any chances; coughing of any kind is best checked out by your veterinarian.

Watch for signs. If your dog displays severe signs such as a decreased appetite, discharge from the eyes or nose, difficulty breathing, or is noticeably less active than normal, a more serious problem may be present.