Kennel cough is common in dogs and highly contagious, but how can you prevent your dog from getting it?

It is likely that most dogs will get kennel cough during their life and sometimes it will go away on its own but here is everything you need to know from Purina.

What is kennel cough?

Kennel cough is a canine infection which effects the respiratory system and is caused by a wide range of bacteria and viruses. It is highly contagious and is more recognised by a harsh, hacking cough.

What causes it?

Dogs become infected when they inhale these bacteria or virus particles into their respiratory tract. Dogs are more likely to be infected when their immune system is weakened, usually by an infection from a virus.

READ: Alabama rot: How to spot it in dogs and get it treated

What are the symptoms?

If a dog has kennel cough, the main symptom is a consistent, forceful cough. However, some dogs do have other symptoms like sneezing, a runny nose or eye discharge.

There are some factors that exacerbate the likelihood a dog will be infected by kennel cough:

Being around other dogs who have kennel cough

Being kept in crowded conditions

Poor ventilation

Cold temperatures

Exposure to dust or cigarette smoke

Travel-induced stress

What is the treatment for kennel cough?

Kennel cough can usually go away on its own, most cases will clear up within three weeks and shouldn’t need any treatment at all. But, if you are worried about your dog, take him to see the vet.

The vet may be able to prescribe antibiotics to target the bacteria causing the cough.

Protection against some of the viruses that can cause kennel cough is included in puppy and booster vaccinations. These viruses include canine influenza, canine distemper, canine parainfluenza virus and canine adenovirus type two.