Updated: 26/02/26
You might have heard of canine infectious cough or “kennel cough”, an infection in dogs that can cause a nasty cough.
The term “kennel cough” is somewhat misleading, as this disease can occur in all dogs, whether they go to kennels or not.
Vaccination is a vital part of protecting your dog against canine infectious cough, and can form part of your pet’s annual preventative vaccination plan.
What is canine infectious cough?
Canine infectious respiratory disease complex (or “kennel cough”) is an infection in dogs caused by several different viruses and bacteria.
Most dogs will suffer with a persistent, hacking, honking cough.
In some cases dogs may also develop sneezing, discharge from their eyes and nose, a reduced appetite and lethargy. In serious cases, infection can lead to pneumonia.
The risk of infection is highest in dogs that are socially active and regularly mix with or visit areas where there are a lot of other dogs.
Examples include: staying at a boarding kennels, going to doggy day care, playing in public areas, visiting the groomers or attending dog shows or competitions.
How do I stop my dog from catching it?
Our team can vaccinate your dog against the main causes of canine infectious cough at a vaccination visit.
We strongly recommend that your dog receive their kennel cough (canine infectious cough) vaccination, especially if they are going to be mixing with lots of other dogs at the park, day care centres, show or competitions.
The vaccination is often required for your dog to attend training classes, stay in boarding kennels or visit a doggy day care service.
If you would like to discuss your dog’s risk level and the vaccination in more detail, please contact your local veterinary practice today – a member of our team will be happy to advise you further.
How often should dogs be vaccinated?
Yearly vaccinations are recommended and we advise that vaccinations are given at least three weeks before your dog goes into kennels.
Please be aware that some kennels and other boarding services have their own specific requirements on timings of vaccination, so we would always recommend checking their specific requirements.
To learn more or book your dog’s next vaccination appointment, please get in touch with your local VetPartners team.
Found this article useful? You may also like:
