Canine Cough Vaccines—Protecting Your Dog from ‘Kennel Cough’

If you’ve ever heard your dog let out a deep, hacking cough that sounds a bit like they’re trying to clear their throat, you might have wondered if it’s kennel cough. While that’s the common name most people know, veterinarians now refer to it as canine cough—because your dog doesn’t need to go near a kennel to catch it!

Canine cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection that spreads easily between dogs, and vaccination plays a key role in keeping your dog healthy.

What Is Canine Cough?

Canine cough is the collective name for a group of respiratory infections caused by several viruses and bacteria. The main culprits are:

• Bordetella bronchiseptica (a bacteria)

• Canine Parainfluenza Virus

• Sometimes Canine Adenovirus Type 2

These pathogens affect the upper airways—the nose, throat and windpipe—causing irritation and inflammation.

It’s similar to a human chest cold: unpleasant, easily spread and sometimes more serious in puppies, seniors or dogs with other health issues.

How It Spreads

Canine cough spreads through airborne droplets, shared surfaces and direct contact with infected dogs.

Your dog can catch it by:

• Sniffing or playing with another dog

• Sharing water bowls, toys or grooming tools

• Visiting dog parks, training classes or boarding facilities

Because it spreads so easily, any place where dogs socialise can be a hotspot for infection—not just kennels.

Symptoms of Canine Cough

The most recognisable symptom is a dry, hacking cough that can sound like retching or gagging. Other signs may include:

• Sneezing

• Nasal discharge

• Mild fever

• Loss of appetite or energy

Most cases are mild and resolve with rest and supportive care, but some dogs can develop more serious secondary infections, such as pneumonia.

The Canine Cough Vaccine

The canine cough vaccine protects against the main causes of the disease—Bordetella bronchiseptica and Canine Parainfluenza Virus.

In Australia, this protection is usually included as part of the C5 vaccination, which covers:

• The core C3 diseases (Parvovirus, Distemper, Hepatitis), plus

• The two canine cough components (Bordetella and Parainfluenza).

How the Vaccine Is Given

The vaccine can be given in several ways:

• Intranasal (nose drops) – provides local immunity in the airways.

• Injectable – commonly given along with the C3 vaccine.

Each type provides strong protection, though our vets may choose one method over another depending on your dog’s health and tolerance.

How Often Does My Dog Need It?

Canine cough vaccines typically need to be boosted once a year. Our vets will tailor a vaccination schedule to your dog’s risk level—dogs who frequently visit parks, groomers, boarding kennels or doggy daycare may benefit from more regular protection.

Why Vaccinate Against Canine Cough?

• Reduces the severity of illness if your dog is exposed.

• Prevents outbreaks in community settings such as boarding kennels and dog parks.

• Required by kennels and groomers—most facilities won’t accept dogs without current vaccination.

• Protects vulnerable pets—including puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions.

While no vaccine can guarantee complete prevention, it greatly reduces the likelihood and severity of infection, keeping your dog comfortable and recovery time short.

Final Thoughts

Canine cough is common, contagious and uncomfortable—but it’s also largely preventable. Keeping your dog’s vaccinations up to date is one of the best ways to protect them and the dogs around them.

If it’s been more than a year since your dog’s last canine cough vaccine—or if you’re not sure when it was done—speak with our friendly nurses today to check your dog’s protection status.