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Kennel Cough in UK Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention

Kennel cough — officially known as infectious tracheobronchitis — is one of the most common and highly contagious respiratory infections in UK dogs. Despite the name, it does not only spread in kennels: any place where dogs socialise, from dog parks to training classes, can be a source of infection. Most cases are mild and self-limiting, but some require veterinary treatment.

What Causes Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough is not caused by a single agent but by a complex of viruses and bacteria that can act alone or together. The most significant bacterial cause is Bordetella bronchiseptica, which is the main target of the kennel cough vaccine. Viral contributors include canine parainfluenza virus, canine adenovirus type 2, canine distemper virus (now rare in vaccinated populations), and canine respiratory coronavirus.

The infection spreads rapidly through aerosol droplets — a single cough from an infected dog can spread pathogens to nearby dogs. Sharing contaminated surfaces, bowls, or toys can also transmit infection. The incubation period is typically 3–10 days, meaning a dog can contract the infection and not show symptoms for up to a week and a half.

Outbreaks are particularly common in autumn and winter in the UK. The disease is also more likely to occur in dogs that are stressed, immunocompromised, or in environments where many dogs are in close proximity.

Recognising the Symptoms

The classic sign of kennel cough is a harsh, hacking cough — often described as sounding like the dog has something stuck in its throat. It may end with a retching or gagging sound, and some dogs bring up white foamy mucus, which owners sometimes mistake for vomiting. The cough is typically worse after exercise or excitement, and may disturb sleep.

In uncomplicated cases, dogs remain bright, alert, eating, and drinking normally despite the cough. This is one of the key distinguishing features from more serious respiratory infections. The cough typically lasts 1–3 weeks and resolves without specific treatment in healthy adult dogs.

Complications can occur, particularly in puppies, elderly dogs, or those with underlying health conditions. Signs that suggest a more serious infection include: lethargy and depression; reduced or absent appetite; a nasal discharge that becomes thick and discoloured; fever; and laboured or rapid breathing. These signs may indicate progression to pneumonia and require prompt veterinary attention.

When to See the Vet

For a healthy adult dog with classic kennel cough symptoms and no other concerns, many vets advise monitoring at home for the first few days. The PDSA advises that mild cases can resolve without treatment. However, you should call your vet if your dog: has been coughing for more than 3 weeks; is showing signs of complications (lethargy, high fever, laboured breathing, reduced appetite); is a puppy, elderly, or has underlying health problems; or you are unsure whether the symptoms are typical kennel cough or something more serious.

Importantly, if you need to take your dog to the vet, inform the reception team in advance that you suspect kennel cough. They will advise you on how to minimise the risk of spreading infection to other dogs — in some practices, you may be asked to wait outside or in a separate area.

Treatment, if prescribed, typically involves antibiotics (to clear bacterial involvement and prevent secondary infection), anti-cough medication for dogs with a very severe or distressing cough, and sometimes nebulisation in hospitalised cases. Cough medications for dogs are prescription-only — do not use human cough suppressants.

Prevention: The Kennel Cough Vaccine

The kennel cough vaccine is the primary preventive measure. In the UK, it is administered as an intranasal spray (directly into one nostril) or, more recently, as an oral squirt (Nobivac KC Oral). It provides protection specifically against Bordetella bronchiseptica and parainfluenza virus. It does not protect against all causes of kennel cough, which is why vaccinated dogs can still occasionally contract a milder form of the disease.

The vaccine requires annual boosting to maintain protection. Most kennels, doggy daycare facilities, hydrotherapy centres, and training classes require proof of kennel cough vaccination before accepting dogs. Some require vaccination at least 2 weeks prior to attendance as there is a brief period before full protection develops.

The kennel cough vaccine costs on average £34 as a stand-alone vaccination in the UK, or approximately £97 when combined with the annual booster. This is a modest cost relative to the potential treatment costs if your dog develops a complicated infection, and the risk of spreading disease to other dogs.

Comparing Vaccination Costs Near You

The cost of the kennel cough vaccine varies between practices. Under the CMA's March 2026 reforms, all UK vet practices are required to publish standard price lists including vaccination fees — making it easier than ever to compare the cost of routine preventive care.

CompareMyVet at app.comparemyvet.uk currently lists 29 practices in Brighton & Hove with their published prices, and is expanding across the UK. If you want to compare the cost of kennel cough vaccination and annual boosters across local practices, our platform is designed to make that straightforward.

Keeping your dog up to date with kennel cough vaccination is a routine part of responsible dog ownership and one of the simplest ways to protect their health — and prevent the spread of infection to other dogs in your community.