Understanding and Managing Kennel Cough in Dogs

Kennel cough is a term used to describe various infectious and contagious respiratory conditions in dogs where coughing is a primary symptom. It’s a common issue in the canine world, so understanding its causes and prevention is essential for every pet parent. Here’s a comprehensive guide to kennel cough and our top tips for keeping your dog healthy.

What is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious respiratory disease or canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is an upper respiratory infection in dogs. It is caused by a combination of bacteria and viruses, with Bordetella bronchiseptica being one of the primary bacterial culprits  . Kennel cough is highly contagious, spreading through respiratory secretions from dog to dog. Infected dogs must be isolated at the first sign of symptoms to prevent further transmission.

Some of the bacteria/viruses include:

• Canine Adenovirus Type-2 (CAV-2)

• Parainfluenza Virus

• Bordetella bronchiseptica

Each pathogen plays a role in compromising your dog’s respiratory health. Let’s explore these in detail:

Canine Adenovirus Type-2 (CAV-2)

CAV-2 is a contagious virus that primarily affects a dog’s respiratory tract. Symptoms include:

• Mild fever

• Nasal discharge

• Coughing

• Poor weight gain

The virus typically enters through inhalation, replicating in the upper respiratory tract and trachea. While CAV-2 infections are usually mild, secondary bacterial or viral infections (e.g., distemper) can worsen symptoms.

Interestingly, studies suggest that reinfection with CAV-2 can cause hyperreactive airways, a condition where the bronchial lining becomes overly sensitive to irritants like smoke or cold air.

Canine Parainfluenza Virus (CPIV)

Highly contagious, CPIV is a common cause of respiratory illness in dogs. Symptoms range from mild to severe and may include:

• A dry, harsh cough lasting up to 7 days

• Fever

• Nasal discharge

CPIV suppresses the immune system by damaging cilia in the respiratory tract, making dogs more vulnerable to secondary infections. Puppies, senior dogs, and immunocompromised pets are particularly at risk.

Did you know? CPIV can survive on nonporous surfaces for 4–12 days but is easily neutralised with disinfectants.

Bordetella Bronchiseptica

This gram-negative bacteria often worsens viral infections in dogs. Once it colonizes the airways, Bordetella can:

• Damage respiratory cells

• Evade the immune system

• Disrupt natural defenses like the mucociliary apparatus (the system that clears pathogens from the airways)

Symptoms vary from mild coughing and nasal discharge to severe pneumonia, particularly in young or immunocompromised dogs.

Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRD)

CIRD occurs when multiple pathogens, such as CAV-2, CPIV, and Bordetella, interact to cause respiratory illness. These coinfections can overwhelm your dog’s immune system, making prevention and management crucial.

Symptoms of Kennel Cough

Kennel cough manifests in various symptoms, ranging from mild to severe. Key symptoms include:

- Persistent dry cough

- Coughing that keeps dogs awake at night

- Retching or gagging

- Watery nasal discharge

- In mild cases: dogs remain active and continue eating normally

- In severe cases: symptoms can progress to pneumonia, inappetence, fever, and lethargy

Strengthening Your Dog’s Immune System to Combat Kennel Cough

Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease (CIRD), commonly known as kennel cough, directly targets your dog’s immune system. The pathogens involved can suppress immune defences, leading to persistent symptoms. A well-functioning immune system is your dog’s first line of defence against these attacks. Here’s how you can support it:

Key Vitamins and Their Immune Benefits

1. Vitamin C

• Boosts immune defence by enhancing cellular functions in both the innate and adaptive immune systems.

• Stimulates the production of white blood cells (lymphocytes and phagocytes), essential for protecting the body against infection.

2. Vitamin A:

• Maintains the integrity of mucosal barriers (skin, respiratory tract, etc.).

• Supports the activity of natural killer cells, macrophages, and neutrophils.

• Aids T and B cell function for antibody production and promotes the Th2 anti-inflammatory response.

3. Vitamin B6:

• Regulates inflammation and cytokine production in innate immunity.

• Enhances natural killer cell activity and lymphocyte development for adaptive immunity.

• Supports Th1 immune responses and the creation of cytokines and antibodies.

4. Vitamin D:

• Vital for immune cell proliferation and cytokine production.

• Acts as an immune modulator, balancing the immune response to prevent overactivation.

• Deficiency is often linked to higher rates of autoimmunity and infections.

5. Zinc:

• Protects against oxidative damage and supports skin and mucosal membrane health.

• Essential for T cell development, activation, and maintaining a robust Th1 immune response.

Natural Remedies for Kennel Cough

Most cases of kennel cough resolve with rest and supportive care. Below are some natural remedies to help your dog recover.

Medicinal Mushrooms

Mushrooms are renowned for their powerful health benefits, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular-protective, anti-diabetic, hepatoprotective, and anticancer properties.

One of their most notable advantages is their ability to modulate the immune system. Mushrooms have a profound impact on hematopoietic stem cells, lymphocytes, macrophages, T cells, dendritic cells (DCs), and natural killer (NK) cells, helping to strengthen and regulate immune responses.

Discover more about these super mushrooms and their incredible benefits: Learn More.

Ginger

Research reveals that ginger and its active compounds—[6]-gingerol, [8]-gingerol, and [6]-shogaol—play a crucial role in relaxing airway smooth muscle (ASM). Notably, [8]-gingerol has been shown to reduce airway hyperresponsiveness, making it particularly beneficial for respiratory health.

Beyond this, ginger is widely recognized for its potent antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties, making it a versatile natural remedy for supporting overall health. Read more here.

Chamomile

Known for its soothing effects, chamomile has been used for centuries as a natural anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, mild astringent, and healing agent. Its soothing properties make it a popular choice for treating skin and mucous membrane inflammation, as well as bacterial infections affecting the skin, oral cavity, gums, and respiratory tract.

These benefits extend to dogs as well, where chamomile tinctures or teas are often better tolerated than other forms.

Manuka Honey

Another trusted remedy, Manuka honey, is renowned for its soothing properties and powerful antimicrobial benefits. It serves as:

• Antiviral

• Antibacterial

• Antiviral

• Antibacterial

Emerging research highlights its ability to combat a wide range of pathogens. Manuka honey is especially effective at breaking down and eliminating bacteria embedded in biofilms—those stubborn matrixes that adhere to wounds, teeth, and mucosal surfaces. Learn more here.

Echinacea

A study evaluated a plant-based immune stimulant on 41 dogs suffering from chronic and seasonal upper respiratory tract infections, such as pharyngitis, tonsillitis, bronchitis, and kennel cough.

The results were impressive: 92% of 39 dogs showed significant improvement after just 4 weeks of treatment, with continued benefits observed after 8 weeks.

Key outcomes included:

• Significant reductions in the severity of symptoms.

• Resolution of clinical signs such as clear nasal discharge, swollen lymph nodes, dry cough, difficulty breathing (dyspnea), and dry lung sounds after 4 weeks.

Read the Full Study findings here.

1. Steam Therapy

  - Steam can help loosen mucus in the throat and nose, relieving the cough. Let your dog sit in the bathroom while you take a hot shower. Ensure they have access to water to stay hydrated.

2. Rest

   - Ample rest is crucial. A well-rested dog can fight off the infection more effectively.

3. Bone Broth

   - Feeding bone broth can provide essential nutrients and hydration, aiding in recovery.

4. Marshmallow Root and Slippery Elm

   - Both have demulcent and tonic properties that soothe the throat and alleviate coughing. Marshmallow root is gentler and can be especially helpful.

5. Homeopathy

   - Drosera 30C is a recommended homeopathic remedy for kennel cough. Administer one pillule every hour for up to four hours.

6. Essential Oils

   - Diffusing essential oils, such as the thieves blend, can provide relief. Use six drops in a diffuser in an enclosed room for two hours. Note that essential oils should not be used concurrently with homeopathic remedies.

7. Natural Cough Syrup

   - Mix one tablespoon of locally sourced raw honey or manuka honey with one tablespoon of lemon juice and 120 ml of warm water. Administer using a dropper if necessary. (Avoid giving honey to puppies under 12 months, diabetic dogs, or dogs allergic to bees.)

8. Environmental Control

   - Keep your dog’s sleeping area warm and free of drafts. Use Leucillin spray to disinfect surfaces and fabrics to minimize the spread of the virus.

Supporting the Immune System Post-Recovery

After recovering from kennel cough, it's essential to boost your dog's immune system to prevent future illnesses. Here are some natural supplements that can help:

1. Echinacea

   - Echinacea has natural antibiotic, antifungal, and antiviral properties. It can also help prevent the growth of cancer cells by extending the life of healthy cells .

   - Dosage: 12 to 25 drops of echinacea tincture three times a day, with a schedule of five days on and two to three days off.

2. Chamomile Tincture

   - Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, and it also helps with anxiety and digestive upset.

   - Dosage: 0.25 ml to 0.50 ml per 10 kg of body weight, twice a day.

3. Medicinal Mushrooms

   - Mushrooms are powerful immune boosters with antiviral, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties . Varieties like shiitake, turkey tail, reishi, and chaga are particularly beneficial.

   - If sourcing mushrooms is difficult, consider supplements like those from Four Leaf Rover or Time Health.

Kennel Cough Vaccine: Is it Necessary?

Kennel cough vaccines are a topic of debate among canine immunologists. Dr. Ronald Schultz, a leading expert in canine immunology, describes kennel cough as a disease not effectively preventable by vaccine . The vaccine covers only a few of the approximately 40 viruses that can cause kennel cough, making it less reliable. Additionally, live vaccines can shed the virus for 3-14 weeks, potentially exposing other dogs.

Despite the availability of a vaccine, it is important to note that:

• Kennel cough is not entirely preventable by vaccination - Dr. Schultz emphasizes that the vaccine only targets a small fraction of the approximately 40 pathogens known to cause kennel cough.

• The vaccine may not always be necessary - We believe the kennel cough vaccine should only be considered if absolutely essential, as overloading your dog’s body with unnecessary substances—such as heavy metals found in some vaccines—can pose long-term health risks.

• The vaccine has limitations - Since kennel cough can be caused by various strains, it’s impossible to vaccinate against them all effectively.

Effectiveness of the Vaccine

Studies have shown mixed results regarding the effectiveness of the kennel cough vaccine. One study found it to be only about 20% effective in reducing coughing compared to a placebo.

Another study indicated that 40-60% of dogs with kennel cough had a history of vaccination, suggesting the vaccine does not always prevent the disease.

Conclusion

Kennel cough is a common yet manageable condition. By understanding the symptoms and utilizing natural remedies, you can support your dog's recovery and boost their immune system. While the kennel cough vaccine is available, its efficacy is limited, and natural alternatives may provide safer, long-term protection. If you need further assistance or have questions, our team is here to help. Feel free to reach out via the group.

Sources

1. "Kennel Cough in Dogs." VCA Animal Hospitals. [Link](https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/kennel-cough-in-dogs)

2. "Bordetella Bronchiseptica in Dogs." Merck Veterinary Manual. [Link](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/generalized-conditions/respiratory-diseases-of-dogs-and-cats/bordetella-bronchiseptica-in-dogs)

3. "Echinacea: Benefits, Uses, Side Effects and Dosage." Healthline. [Link](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/echinacea)

4. "Medicinal Mushrooms for Dogs: The Ultimate Guide." Dogs Naturally Magazine. [Link](https://

www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/medicinal-mushrooms-for-dogs/)

5. "Does Your Dog Need the Kennel Cough Vaccine?" Dogs Naturally Magazine. [Link](https://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/kennel-cough-vaccine/)

6.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7110455/

7.https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7126306/