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Dog Bordetella Respiratory Infection FAQ — Key Information Every Pet Owner Should Know

RespiratoryQ&AMeongsiljang Veterinary Advisory Board

Bordetella respiratory infection in dogs is a highly contagious cough-causing pathogen that spreads easily in environments where dogs are in close contact. Here’s the essential information every pet owner should know.

What is Bordetella respiratory infection in dogs?

A scene of a puppy being examined for suspected Bordetella infection

Kennel cough, or Bordetella respiratory infection in dogs, is a contagious respiratory disease caused by the Gram-negative bacterium Bordetella bronchiseptica. It spreads easily in environments where multiple dogs are housed closely together. The bacteria are transmitted through respiratory droplets (aerosols) released into the air when an infected dog coughs, as well as via contaminated objects such as food bowls, human hands, and toys. The hallmark symptom is a persistent, paroxysmal, harsh cough, often ending in a retching sound with the expulsion of a small amount of frothy mucus. Most dogs do not have a fever at the time of diagnosis. However, in puppies with immature immune systems or senior dogs, the infection can progress to more severe conditions such as pneumonia. Although most cases resolve on their own, antibiotic treatment is often recommended after a veterinary diagnosis to prevent secondary bacterial infections.

In what situations is infection likely to occur?

Kennel cough, caused by Bordetella, spreads easily in environments where dogs are in close contact. Infection can occur through respiratory droplets (aerosols) expelled when dogs cough in places where they gather, such as pet cafes, boarding facilities, training centers, and veterinary clinics. Puppies and dogs with weakened immune systems are at higher risk. Symptoms typically appear within 2 to 10 days after exposure to an infected dog. The bacteria can also spread through contact with contaminated objects like shared water bowls, toys, dirty dishes, or human hands. To help prevent the spread, it’s important to regularly clean and disinfect equipment and facilities using a 1:30 diluted bleach solution or a quaternary ammonium disinfectant. After an outbreak, extra caution is needed for about 1 to 2 weeks, so preventive measures are essential when visiting crowded environments.

Environments with high concentrations of dogs at increased risk of Bordetella infection

What are the main symptoms?

The hallmark symptom of Bordetella respiratory infection in dogs is a sudden, repetitive, harsh, high-pitched cough. The coughing fits come on abruptly, often ending with a gagging or retching sound as if something is stuck in the throat, sometimes producing a small amount of frothy mucus. Coughing may worsen with exercise or excitement. Most dogs do not have a fever at the time of diagnosis, but if multiple bacteria are involved or the condition becomes severe, loss of appetite and lethargy may occur. In some cases, the infection progresses to pneumonia, causing difficulty breathing. Symptoms typically last one to two weeks, and most dogs recover on their own without specific treatment. Early detection and consistent monitoring are key.

Common symptoms associated with Bordetella infection

Signs requiring immediate veterinary care

If your dog shows signs of difficulty breathing in addition to coughing, or if their gums, tongue, or the area around their mouth turns blue or bluish (cyanosis), you should seek veterinary care immediately. Additionally, if the cough persists for several days or worsens, or if it is accompanied by a fever and loss of appetite, it could be dangerous. Puppies with weak immune systems and senior dogs are at higher risk of developing severe conditions like pneumonia, so early veterinary evaluation is essential.

How is the diagnosis made?

Veterinarians make a diagnosis by comprehensively evaluating symptoms along with recent exposure history to other dogs, such as stays at pet hotels, visits to training facilities, or trips to animal hospitals. If coughing persists and it’s difficult to distinguish from other respiratory conditions, samples may be collected from the nose or throat for bacterial culture or antibiotic susceptibility testing. Chest X-rays may also be used to check for lung inflammation, such as pneumonia. Since symptoms alone are often insufficient for a definitive diagnosis, a thorough assessment is essential. Considering both exposure history and test results together allows for a more accurate diagnosis. The treatment plan is then determined based on the test results.

Sample collection procedure for diagnosing Bordetella infection

What are the treatment methods?

Bordetella respiratory infections often resolve on their own, so dogs with mild symptoms can recover with careful monitoring and supportive care at home. However, antibiotic therapy is recommended if there is a risk of spreading the infection to other dogs or if secondary bacterial infections are suspected. In such cases, your veterinarian will prescribe an appropriate antibiotic, such as doxycycline, based on your dog’s condition. Antibiotics help prevent not only Bordetella but also other potential bacterial infections. It is crucial to administer antibiotics exactly as directed by your veterinarian for the full prescribed duration. Limiting activity and ensuring plenty of rest during treatment will aid recovery.

A puppy being given medication while undergoing treatment for a Bordetella infection.

Symptoms and management by severity: mild vs moderate vs severe

Item	Main symptoms	Response measures	Need for a clinic visit
Mild	Paroxysmal, recurring cough	Rest at home, maintain a warm environment and observe the condition	Observation alone is generally sufficient
Moderate	Worsening cough, decreased appetite, lethargy	Take antibiotics after consulting a veterinarian	Recommended
Severe	Respiratory distress, blue or bluish gums/mouth (cyanosis)	Visit the clinic immediately; oxygen therapy needed	Essential

If symptoms worsen or persist for more than a few days, an immediate clinic visit is recommended.

Management points for prevention

The key to preventing Bordetella respiratory infections in dogs is vaccination. We especially recommend the Bordetella vaccine for dogs frequently exposed to crowded environments. While the vaccine may not completely prevent infection, it effectively reduces symptom severity and transmission. It’s also important to avoid contact with infected dogs and regularly disinfect shared toys and water bowls. A balanced diet and adequate rest support immune health. Preventive care is essential for maintaining a healthy life.

Points to note: Limitations and side effects of the vaccine

The Bordetella vaccine doesn’t completely prevent infection, but it effectively reduces the severity of symptoms and limits the spread of the disease. Some dogs may experience temporary side effects after vaccination, such as fever, fatigue, or loss of appetite. These are normal, short-lived reactions, so there’s no need to worry. However, if any unusual symptoms persist after vaccination, please consult your veterinarian.

Reviewed by a veterinarian

Dr. Tony — Punnawat Phongkittirak

Veterinarian

A veterinarian who majored in veterinary medicine at Khon Kaen University, Thailand, and completed the IVSA program at North Carolina State University in the United States. Drawing on clinical experience at animal hospitals, he works in the pet healthcare field and is dedicated to building a digital care environment that connects pet parents with veterinarians.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should the Bordetella vaccine be administered?

We recommend the Bordetella vaccine for dogs frequently exposed to crowded environments, with annual booster shots typically advised. Since it takes time for immunity to develop (about 72 hours for intranasal vaccines), it’s safest to vaccinate before using services like pet hotels or training facilities. Consult your veterinarian to determine the appropriate start date and vaccination schedule.

Does a cough mean a Bordetella infection?

Coughing can be caused by a variety of factors, including viruses, in addition to Bordetella. If the cough persists for several days or is accompanied by difficulty breathing, your pet should be examined by a veterinarian.

Can Bordetella infection be transmitted to humans?

Bordetella bronchiseptica is a bacterium that primarily causes respiratory disease in dogs, and it is not commonly known to spread to humans. However, if you live with someone who has a weakened immune system—such as a child, an elderly person, or someone with a chronic condition—it’s a good idea to practice basic hygiene, like regular handwashing. If you’re concerned about the exact level of risk, consult your veterinarian or physician.

How should I care for an infected puppy at home?

Infected puppies should be separated from other dogs and allowed to rest in a warm, well-ventilated environment. Ensure they have plenty of water to drink, and administer antibiotics exactly as directed by your veterinarian.

Is the Bordetella vaccine absolutely necessary?

If your dog is frequently exposed to crowded environments, we recommend vaccination. However, the safest approach is to consult with your veterinarian and make a decision based on your dog’s individual circumstances.

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References

[1] Reagan KL, Sykes JE. Canine infectious respiratory disease. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2020;50(2):405-18.

[2] Hurley K. Canine infectious respiratory disease complex: Management and prevention in canine populations. DVM 2010;360.

[3] Joffe DJ, Lelewski R, Weese JS, et al. Factors associated with development of Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC) in dogs in 5 Canadian small animal clinics. Can Vet J 2016;57(1):46–51.