Updated April 20, 2026
Kennel cough, also called canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC), is a highly contagious respiratory illness in dogs. The condition affects a dog’s airways and is most commonly spread in places where many dogs gather, such as kennels, shelters and daycare facilities.
While most dogs recover quickly with rest and supportive care, kennel cough can occasionally lead to more serious illness that requires veterinary treatment.
Understanding the symptoms, causes and prevention of kennel cough can help pet parents protect their dogs and prevent the disease from spreading.
The Facts About Kennel Cough (CIRDC)
Canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC), commonly known as kennel cough, is a contagious illness that affects the respiratory tract in dogs.
All breeds and ages can develop kennel cough. However, dogs are at greater risk in environments where many dogs are housed or interact closely, including:
- Boarding kennels
- Animal shelters
- Dog daycare facilities
- Grooming or training centers
- Dog parks and other social settings
Several different bacteria and viruses can contribute to CIRDC, and dogs may be infected by more than one organism at the same time. Common causes include:
- Bordetella bronchiseptica, a bacterium
- Canine parainfluenza virus
- Canine adenovirus type 2
Because some of these pathogens spread through the air, routine cleaning and disinfecting of kennel surfaces alone cannot fully eliminate the risk of infection.
Kennel Cough Symptoms
The most recognizable symptom of kennel cough is a sudden, frequent cough that sounds like a honking goose.
This cough may also appear as gagging or retching and can sometimes produce frothy mucus that resembles vomit. Coughing often becomes worse when a dog is active or excited because activity can irritate the airways.
Other common symptoms of kennel cough include:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Watery eyes
In most cases, kennel cough is mild and dogs recover within 7 to 10 days.
However, some dogs may develop more serious symptoms, especially if bacteria infect the lungs. Signs of a more severe illness may include:
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
- Productive cough
- Rapid or labored breathing
These symptoms may indicate bacterial pneumonia, which requires immediate veterinary care.
How Kennel Cough Spreads Between Dogs
Dogs with kennel cough are often contagious before symptoms appear, which makes the disease difficult to control. In settings with multiple dogs, the illness can spread quickly and sometimes cause outbreaks.
Some organisms associated with CIRDC can also survive in the environment for several weeks.
Dogs can become infected through:
- Close or direct contact with infected dogs, such as licking or nuzzling
- Breathing in respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing
- Contact with contaminated objects, including toys, bedding, water bowls or people’s hands
The risk of infection increases when dogs remain in close contact with other dogs for extended periods.
If you suspect your dog has kennel cough, keep them away from other dogs until they have fully recovered to help prevent further spread.
Level Up Your Pet Parenting Skills With Our Free Guide!
Unleash the ultimate pet parenting guide! Sign up now to receive our exclusive guide filled with expert advice from American Humane Society’s animal care and veterinary specialists. Discover essential training techniques, vital pet care tips, and much more.
Treatment for Kennel Cough in Dogs
There is no single medication that cures kennel cough, and treatment depends on how sick the dog is.
Most dogs with mild illness recover quickly with supportive care, including:
- Rest and limited activity
- Avoiding excitement that triggers coughing
- Using a harness instead of a neck leash to reduce airway irritation
Dogs with more severe illness may benefit from veterinary treatment such as:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications to reduce fever and inflammation
- Fluids to treat dehydration
Antibiotics are usually not necessary unless a veterinarian suspects bacterial pneumonia or the illness lasts longer than 10 days. In rare cases, dogs with severe disease may require intensive supportive care, including oxygen therapy.
Keeping a dog in a warm, calm environment and limiting activity may help prevent complications such as pneumonia.
Preventing the Spread of Kennel Cough
To reduce the risk of kennel cough spreading:
- Keep infected dogs away from other dogs until fully recovered
- Avoid shared water bowls, toys and bedding when possible
- Wash hands after handling dogs with respiratory symptoms
- Follow vaccination recommendations from your veterinarian
These steps can help limit transmission, especially in homes with multiple dogs or in facilities where dogs gather.
What to Know About Dog Coughs
Not every cough in dogs is caused by kennel cough.
For example, dogs that bark continuously in shelters or boarding facilities may develop throat irritation that causes coughing. Other respiratory diseases can also produce similar symptoms.
Dogs infected with canine distemper virus, one of the organisms sometimes associated with CIRDC, may develop additional symptoms such as:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Hardened footpads
- Neurologic signs like head tilt or circling behavior
Puppies, older dogs and dogs with existing health problems are at higher risk of severe illness and complications.
Contact a veterinarian if your dog:
- Has a fever
- Is less active than usual
- Has a decreased appetite or stops eating
- Develops discharge from the eyes or nose
- Has difficulty breathing
These symptoms may indicate a more serious condition that requires prompt medical attention.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is a contagious respiratory illness in dogs formally known as canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC). It affects a dog’s upper airways and commonly spreads in places where many dogs interact, such as kennels, shelters and daycare facilities. Several viruses and bacteria can cause kennel cough, including Bordetella bronchiseptica.
Dogs get kennel cough through contact with infected dogs or contaminated environments. The disease spreads through airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing, as well as shared items such as toys, water bowls or bedding. Dogs in close-contact environments like boarding facilities or dog parks have a higher risk of infection.
The most common early symptom of kennel cough is a persistent, honking cough that may sound like gagging or retching. Some dogs may also develop sneezing, watery eyes or a runny nose. Symptoms often appear suddenly and may worsen during exercise or excitement.
Most cases of kennel cough are mild and last 7 to 10 days. Dogs usually recover with rest and supportive care. However, if symptoms last longer than 10 days or worsen, a veterinarian should evaluate the dog for complications such as pneumonia.
You should contact a veterinarian if your dog develops more serious symptoms such as fever, lethargy, loss of appetite or difficulty breathing. These signs may indicate complications like bacterial pneumonia. Puppies, older dogs and dogs with underlying health conditions may need veterinary care sooner.
Yes, mild cases of kennel cough often resolve on their own with rest and supportive care. Limiting activity, reducing airway irritation and keeping dogs calm can help recovery. A veterinarian may recommend medication if symptoms become severe or prolonged.
Yes. Kennel cough is highly contagious and spreads easily between dogs, especially in environments where dogs are in close contact. Keeping an infected dog separated from other dogs until symptoms resolve helps prevent outbreaks.
Protecting Your Dog’s Health
Kennel cough is a common but manageable respiratory illness in dogs. American Humane Society shares expert guidance and reliable animal welfare resources to help pet owners make informed decisions about their pets’ health.
