The incubation period from the time a dog is exposed until clinical signs appear varies depending on which infectious agent is the cause. In general it appears to be about 3 to 5 days with Bordetella. The infection tends to be mild except for a very harsh cough that often prompts owners to think that their dog “has something caught in his throat”. In some dogs it can lead to pneumonia or more serious signs. Cough suppressants can be used to control the cough and antibiotics may be necessary for stubborn infections or to try to stop the spread of the bacteria in multiple dog households. It is probably a good idea to vaccinate dogs who will be exposed to large numbers of other dogs, such as at shows, obedience classes or the classic cause — when left in kennels. The intranasal vaccine is pretty fast acting, providing some protection in as little as 5 days. The injectable version of the vaccine may provide longer immunity, though. Some vets use both to get maximum protection.

Usually, this cough will present in the patient as a dry hacking cough, that although uncomfortable to the animal, is not something that you should worry about if treated.

This cough is very very contagious and often it is common to here of entire kennel occupants developing the cough at the same time simply due to the close proximity of dog to dog. Once symptoms appear, it can take 1 to two weeks for your dog to become symptom free.

There is a vaccine to prevent this cough, and it is probably included in your dog’s annual vaccinations. If it is not, ask about it.