Kennel cough (canine infectious respiratory disease) has a low mortality rate, generally estimated between 1% and 8%. While usually a self-limiting, non-fatal illness in healthy dogs, it can be fatal in rare cases—typically in puppies, senior dogs, or those with compromised immune systems—if it progresses to severe pneumonia.

What is the survival rate of kennel cough?

Traditionally, two forms of kennel cough are described: a mild form that accounts for 80% of cases and a more severe form with a 5-10% mortality rate.

Can kennel cough be fatal to a dog?

For most cases of kennel cough in dogs, the prognosis is very good. Most dogs don't even require treatment and recover on their own within 10 days. If pneumonia is present, much more aggressive therapy is required, but dogs typically recover if this therapy is administered.

When to worry about kennel cough in dogs?

However, if your dog is non-stop coughing, having trouble breathing, showing severe disease signs, or your family veterinarian is not available, contact the Animal Emergency Hospital and Urgent Care team for triage and immediate medical care.

How to tell if kennel cough turns into pneumonia?

Usually the dog will recover within two weeks. In severe cases, however, pneumonia can develop and possibly become severe. Symptoms include labored breathing, a moist cough, high fever and nasal discharge. If pneumonia develops, more aggressive treatment is needed.

Treating kennel cough! Fix at Home 🏠

What are the first signs of dog pneumonia?

If your dog is suffering from bacterial infectious pneumonia you may notice some of the following symptoms:

• Breathing difficulties.
• Coughing.
• High fever.
• Runny nose.
• Difficulty exercising.

What happens if kennel cough is left untreated?

In severe cases, kennel cough can progress beyond a mild respiratory infection, leading to more serious complications such as pneumonia. This typically occurs when the illness goes untreated or when a dog's immune system is already weakened, making it harder for them to fight off the infection.

What are the red flags for kennel cough?

The primary sign to look out for is a deep hacking cough, which can sometimes lead to retching, sneezing, snorting, gagging or vomiting. In some cases, you may only notice your dog starting to cough after excitement or exercise and you may also notice a discharge coming from your dog's eyes or nose.

Can I still cuddle with my dog with kennel cough?

Also, people can transmit the infection from one pet to another, so you should wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling a pet with kennel cough or any objects with which they've come into contact, and avoid kissing and hugging your sick pet.

What do vets do for kennel cough?

Should treatment be given, antibiotics can kill the Bordetella bacteria – the most common present in kennel cough cases. Cough suppressants and anti-inflammatories can also be given to make your pet a bit more comfortable as they make a natural recovery.

What does dog pneumonia sound like?

The most obvious indicator of dog pneumonia is a deep cough, which you might describe as wet-sounding. Other signs of pneumonia in dogs include: Rapid breathing. Labored breathing or wheezing.

How many times a day does a dog cough with kennel cough?

Many dogs that acquire Kennel Cough will cough every few minutes, all day long. Their general state of health and alertness will be unaffected, they usually have no rise in temperature, and do not loose their appetite.

Is kennel cough very scary?

If your dog has been consistently coughing, or it sounds like something is stuck in their throat, it may be a sign that they are fighting off a case of kennel cough. While kennel cough may sound scary, it is quite common and most dogs will recover within a few weeks.

What is the #1 cause of death in dogs?

Cancer is the leading cause of death in dogs. It is estimated that 1 in 3 domestic dogs will develop cancer, which is the same incidence of cancer among humans. Dogs can develop a variety of cancers and most are very similar to those found in humans.

How long is too long for kennel cough?

It is possible for kennel cough to develop into pneumonia. So, keep an eye on your dog's symptoms and contact your veterinarian if your dog's condition doesn't improve within 3 to 4 weeks. You should also contact your veterinarian if your pet has more symptoms than just a cough.

What gets mistaken for kennel cough?

Conditions such as pneumonia, heart disease, or a collapsed trachea can mimic or worsen kennel cough symptoms. Veterinary diagnosis may include a physical exam, x-rays, bloodwork, and a review of your dog's recent exposure history.

What not to do when your dog has kennel cough?

It's important to keep your dog at home and keep them away from other dogs for at least two weeks after they've stopped coughing. This should help reduce the spread. However, puppies and senior dogs have a higher risk of complication due to kennel cough because of their immature and compromised immune systems.

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

Disinfecting your house when your dog has kennel cough can help reduce the risk of the disease spreading to other dogs and may help prevent reinfection of your own dog. Kennel cough is highly contagious and can be transmitted through respiratory secretions and contaminated surfaces.

Is it worth going to the vet for kennel cough?

Treating kennel cough

Most dogs with kennel cough can be treated at home without medication and recover within 1-3 weeks. However, if your dog has a severe cough or appears unwell your vet may recommend: Anti-inflammatories - to reduce airway inflammation and bring down a high temperature.

How to tell if kennel cough is severe?

However, depending on the infecting organism(s) and the dog's ability to fight them, some dogs may develop more severe signs like lethargy, decreased appetite, fever, productive cough, and rapid or labored breathing, which can signal that bacteria have infected the lungs (bacterial pneumonia) and immediate veterinary ...

What can mimic kennel cough?

Several illnesses and irritants can mimic kennel cough symptoms. These include: Distemper, pneumonia, or valley fever. Parainfluenza, adenovirus, or canine influenza.

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.

Is kennel cough worse at night?

Usually the coughing is worse at night and in the morning and better during the day when the dog is moving around. Dogs with kennel cough are usually eating, drinking and acting fairly normal other than the coughing.

What do vets prescribe for kennel cough?

Your vet may prescribe antibiotics, expectorants, and other medications to address specific symptoms. Your dog may also have to come back to the hospital for further testing to monitor their recovery. Dogs with uncomplicated forms of kennel cough usually suffer no long-term effects from the illness.

---