Glossary
Kennel cough
A contagious airway infection with a dry, honking cough, caused by several viruses and bacteria and common where dogs gather.
Also called: infectious tracheobronchitis, canine infectious respiratory disease complex, CIRDC, bordetella, dog cough
Kennel cough is not one germ but a group of viruses and bacteria, including Bordetella bronchiseptica and canine parainfluenza virus, which together inflame a dog's windpipe and airways. It spreads through the air and on shared surfaces, so it shows up after boarding, grooming, daycare, dog parks and shelters.
The usual sign is a harsh, dry, honking cough, sometimes ending in a gag, in a dog that otherwise seems bright. Many cases clear up by themselves within a few weeks, but puppies, older dogs and flat-faced breeds can get pneumonia.
Vaccines for Bordetella and parainfluenza reduce how sick a dog gets but do not guarantee protection. Call a vet if the dog is tired, not eating, breathing fast or coughing for more than about two weeks. Keep a coughing dog away from others.
Last reviewed November 8, 2026