Cold months bring more than peppermint mochas. They also bring the annual wave of contagious respiratory infections in dogs. Boarding facilities fill up, groomers stay busy, and dog parks remain crowded. Germs take advantage of the season.
If your dog is suddenly coughing, here is what might be going on.
Kennel Cough: The Classic Culprit
Kennel cough is a common name for a group of contagious respiratory infections in dogs. The medical term for this group is Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex, often shortened to CIRDC. Think of it as the canine version of a winter cold season where multiple viruses and bacteria circulate at the same time.
CIRDC is caused by several organisms that can infect the throat, trachea, and upper airways. The most well-known one is Bordetella bronchiseptica, which is why many people call the illness “Bordetella.” In reality, kennel cough often involves more than one organism at once.
Kennel cough spreads easily anywhere dogs gather:
- Daycares
- Boarding
- Grooming facilities
- Dog parks
- Training classes
It usually sounds like a loud, hacking cough that seems to come from deep in the throat.
Most mild cases improve with supportive care, although some benefit from medication.
Canine Influenza
Dog flu peaks during winter and early spring, especially around the holidays when boarding increases.
Symptoms may include:
- Coughing
- Nasal discharge
- Low energy
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
Canine influenza can cause more significant illness in older pets or dogs with health conditions.
When to Worry
Call us if your dog experiences:
- Persistent cough
- Trouble breathing
- Thick nasal discharge
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Any symptoms in a senior dog or short-nosed breed
Early care prevents complications.
Prevention
Vaccines for Bordetella and Canine Influenza protect your dog and help reduce community spread.
If Your Dog Is Coughing
Call us today for an appointment. We can determine what is causing the cough and treat it appropriately so your house does not sound like a chorus of throat clearing.