Barking cough is a warning sign
Bonn. Contagious coughs are also common in dogs. A sudden, violent, dry and “barking” cough is typical of the disease (Kennel cough). If you experience symptoms such as a persistent cough or fever, it is advisable to seek veterinary advice. The risk of a respiratory infection can be significantly reduced with a vaccination.
Canine infectious tracheobronchitis (CIRD), Infectious cough, or more commonly known as kennel cough, is a highly contagious respiratory disease in dogs. It can be caused by various viruses and bacteria. Coinfections with two or more pathogens often occur. The main pathogen is the bacterium Bordetella bronchiseptica. It is found in more than three quarters of canine patients with acute respiratory symptoms and is therefore more than twice as common as the canine parainfluenza virus. Negative environmental influences or a generally poor immune status of the dog increase the risk of infection or intensify the disease process.
Contrary to what the name kennel cough suggests, the infection also occurs outside of animal shelters, dog boarding kennels or at dog meetings. Only around 45 percent of infections can be attributed to intensive contact with other dogs. The pathogens can also be transmitted when sniffing in the park, going for a walk or through other dogs' bowls and toys. A dog can become infected anywhere, not just in a kennel.
Recognize symptoms
The typical signs of an infectious cough are easy to recognize. The dog often develops a dry to choking cough. Other typical “cold symptoms” include sneezing and nasal discharge; in more severe cases, fever can occur and pneumonia can also occur. Puppies, older dogs, and animals with weakened immune systems or insufficient vaccination protection are particularly susceptible to such serious illnesses.
Infection and risk factors
Infectious coughs in dogs spread in a similar way to a cold in humans. Dogs become infected by inhaling droplets that infected animals release when they cough or sneeze. The disease can also be spread through contact with contaminated objects, such as water or food bowls and toys. Animals that have frequent contact with other dogs – for example in dog parks, in dog boarding kennels or during training – have a higher risk of infection.
Treatment of infectious cough
Mild cases of infectious cough often do not require any special treatment and in most cases resolve after one to two weeks. If the animal appears weak, has a fever or refuses food, it should definitely be examined by a veterinarian. He may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications or cough suppressants to provide the dog with relief. In severe cases, the administration of antibiotics may also be necessary. As a dog owner, you can help your dog recover by giving him plenty of rest and making sure he drinks enough. Wearing a chest harness instead of a collar helps relieve strain on the neck and prevents coughing. Because of the high risk of infection, contact with other dogs should be avoided if possible.
Prevention through vaccination
For dogs that have frequent contact with other dogs, vaccination against the main pathogens of infectious cough, Bordetella bronchiseptica and the canine parainfluenza virus, is recommended. Vaccines are available as single or combination vaccines. After basic immunization, which includes one or two vaccinations depending on the vaccine, immunity lasts a maximum of one year. Annual booster vaccinations are usually required thereafter. Although vaccination does not protect against all respiratory infections, it can reduce the severity of the disease and reduce the likelihood of infection. 70 percent of all dog owners who have experience with infectious coughs would recommend the vaccination to other dog owners.