Bordetella (kennel cough) is not breed-specific and can affect all dog breeds, ages, and genders. It is highly contagious, particularly in crowded, poorly ventilated areas like boarding facilities, dog parks, or groomers. While all dogs are susceptible, brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds like Pugs and Bulldogs may experience more severe symptoms.

What dogs are at risk for Bordetella?

Dogs that spend a lot of time with other pups have a higher risk of catching Bordetella (also known as kennel cough) from their visit to a local dog park, the kennel, or their doggy daycare center and should be vaccinated against Bordetella to make sure they stay healthy and happy.

How common is Bordetella in dogs?

It is highly contagious in dogs. The disease is found worldwide and will infect a very high percentage of dogs in their lifetime.

What dogs get Bordetella vaccines?

The bordetella vaccine is given to both puppies and adult dogs. This vaccine helps to ward off a frequent illness that is known as kennel cough. Kennel cough is easily spread from one dog to another and is highly contagious. In healthy adult dogs, the condition is typically not life threatening.

Does Bordetella in dogs go away on its own?

Thankfully, many cases of Bordetella will go away on their own without any treatment. If you're worried about your dog's cough and decide to bring them to the vet, they might prescribe antibiotics to help expedite their recovery. Always follow the full dosage of any medicine prescribed by your veterinarian.

Should Your Dog Get a Bordetella Vaccine?

Can humans get Bordetella from dogs?

Not usually. Only one CIRDC-associated organism—Bordetella bronchiseptica—is known to infect people, and cases of dog-to-human transmission are extremely rare.

At what age should you stop vaccinating your dog?

At what age do you stop vaccinating your dog? Senior dogs do not generally stop requiring vaccinations, but it will depend on your dog's lifestyle and overall health. Once a dog reaches seven years of age, its senior status requires some special considerations to keep them healthy and happy.

How can I prevent Bordetella in my dog?

Regular vaccination is vital to protect your dog against Bordetella infection. Several vaccination types are available, and some also protect against other common respiratory bacteria and viruses that can occur with bordetella.

Is Bordetella serious?

The bordetella infection can cause coughing, nasal and ocular discharge, fever and mild sneezing in cats. However, in rare circumstances (especially in young kittens and in cats under intense stress), the infection may develop into more severe illness and become fatal.

How does a dog get Bordetella?

Dogs in areas with a higher, more concentrated population of dogs (such as those mentioned above) are more likely to come into contact with this virus and develop signs of an upper respiratory infection. Inhaling bacterial particles is the main way in which a dog will catch Bordetella.

What vaccines are absolutely necessary for dogs?

Absolutely necessary dog vaccines (core vaccines) protect against deadly, common diseases and include Rabies, Canine Distemper (D), Adenovirus (Hepatitis - H), Parainfluenza (P), and Parvovirus (P), often combined as DHPP or DAPP, plus Leptospirosis, depending on location/risk. These are essential for all dogs due to the severity and prevalence of these illnesses, with Rabies often legally required.

Should I throw away my dog's toys after kennel cough?

You should clean your dog's toys regularly, but that doesn't mean every day or even every week. Martha Stewart recommends cleaning your dog's toys every two weeks. Of course, if your dog's toy looks visibly dirty or there's been a recent case of kennel cough, you should disinfect and clean your toys as needed.

Can I still cuddle with my dog with kennel cough?

Yes, you can cuddle your dog with kennel cough for comfort, as it's not easily spread to humans, but you must isolate them from other dogs, wash your hands thoroughly after handling them, and change your clothes to prevent spreading it to other pets. Focus on rest and extra snuggles for your sick pup, but be cautious about transmitting the highly contagious virus between dogs via hands or clothing, notes this video on kennel cough. 

How can I boost my dog's immune system?

Pro-immunity extras include red-bell peppers, berries (such as strawberries and blueberries), as well as spinach, carrots or kale. Many dogs will take these offerings as training treats, or they can be added to their meals. If you feel that your dog needs immune support beyond this level, consult your veterinarian.

Do I need to clean my house if my dog has kennel cough?

Yes, you need to clean and disinfect your house when your dog has kennel cough because the highly contagious bacteria and viruses can survive on surfaces (toys, bowls, bedding, floors, etc.) for days, potentially infecting other dogs; focus on high-contact areas and items, use disinfectants like bleach or veterinary-grade cleaners, and isolate the sick dog until they're well for about a week. 

What dogs should not get Bordetella vaccines?

However, your veterinarian may advise against getting the Bordetella vaccine if your dog is immunocompromised, sick, or pregnant, and they will discuss the risks and benefits of the vaccine for dogs with a previous history of vaccine reactions.

How much is a Bordetella shot for a dog?

On average, you can expect to pay between $19 and $50 per dose for the Bordetella vaccine. Some veterinary clinics may offer the vaccine as part of a wellness plan or vaccination package, which can help reduce costs.

What is the 3 2 1 rule for vaccines?

The "3-2-1" rule is a guideline for monitoring lumps at feline vaccination sites, indicating a lump needs veterinary investigation if it's still present 3 months after vaccination, is larger than 2 cm, or is growing larger 1 month after appearing. This rule helps identify potentially dangerous injection-site sarcomas, rare tumors that can develop in cats, prompting biopsies for suspicious masses. 

Why is my dog coughing like he has a hairball?

When your dog sounds like they're coughing up a hairball, it's often a dry, hacking cough followed by gagging or retching, commonly caused by Kennel Cough, Tracheal Collapse, irritants like dust/smoke, or even swallowed hair, but it can also signal serious issues like Heart Disease, so a vet visit is crucial, especially if persistent or accompanied by lethargy. 

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