Australian National Kennel Council Registered Breeder

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Canine Cough is the equivalent of influenza in humans.

Canine Cough is one of the most common infectious diseases of dogs. It is a highly contagious respiratory disease that can occur in massive outbreaks and is sometimes still referred to as Kennel Cough.  However dogs can become infected with Canine Cough anywhere that dogs gather such as at parks, obedience classes, dog shows and at kennels.

Canine Cough can be caused by a number of different viruses and bacteria but the two most common infectious agents are Bordetella and Bronchiseptica and Canine Parainfluenza virus.   Some dogs can carry the infection for months without showing any signs of disease. These dogs act as a source of infection for other dogs.

The classical sign is a harsh, hacking cough that often finishes with gagging.  Severely affected dogs may have fever, be depressed, not eat and can develop pneumonia. The coughing bouts can persist for a number of weeks, despite treatment, creating significant discomfort for both the dog and its owner.

Treatment may include antibiotics and symptomatic therapy such as cough medicine as prescribed by your veterinarian.

Most Vets will recommend that puppies should be vaccinated against both Bordetella bronchiseptica and canine parafluenza virus and require two injections four weeks apart. 

We personally find it is a waste of time to vaccinate against Canine Cough (as does our Vet) and it is better to treat the Canine Cough (which is just like influenza in a human) with a course of antibiotics (3 day course).