If you’ve noticed more dogs coughing at the park, you’re not imagining it — kennel cough tends to spike when dogs spend more time indoors and in close contact (often in fall and winter, but outbreaks can happen any time). Here’s a practical, parent-friendly guide to understanding the reason, spotting signs early, and preventing your dog from getting sick.

Quick facts

• What Is It? Kennel cough (infectious tracheobronchitis) is a contagious respiratory syndrome caused by several bacteria and viruses (commonly Bordetella bronchiseptica, canine parainfluenza, adenovirus, and Mycoplasma).
• How Does it Spread? Typically through airborne droplets, direct contact, and contaminated surfaces.
• What is the Contagious Period?  Often up to 2–3 weeks, but varies — follow your vet or facility guidance.
• What is the Typical Outcome?  Most healthy adult dogs recover in 1–3 weeks with supportive care. Puppies, seniors, and immunocompromised dogs are at higher risk of complications.

Why is Kennel Cough Seasonal?

• More indoor time: Cooler weather and holiday travel increase boarding, daycare, and indoor play — perfect conditions for spread.
• Crowded facilities: Boarding, daycare, grooming, and shelters are common sites for outbreaks.
• Increased travel: Holidays mean more dogs in transit or at kennels.

How Can I Recognize the Signs in My Dog?

• A loud, honking cough or gagging (often worse with excitement or exercise)
• Retching or vomiting after coughing
• Sneezing, runny eyes, or nasal discharge (sometimes)
• Mild fever, lethargy, or decreased appetite (if secondary infection) If your dog is a puppy, elderly, brachycephalic (flat-faced), or has chronic illness, be extra cautious — symptoms can progress to pneumonia.

How Can I Avoid It This Season? — A Practical Prevention Checklist

• Vaccinate appropriately:
  • Talk with your vet about Bordetella and parainfluenza vaccines. Vaccines reduce risk and severity but don’t guarantee complete protection.
  • Intranasal or oral Bordetella vaccines often provide protection faster (within days); injectable forms may take longer — confirm timing with your vet before travel/boarding.
  • Many boarding/daycare facilities require up-to-date vaccines — be sure to plan ahead!

Like the average cold, Kennel Cough is extremely common. Vaccinating your dog may not prevent them from getting it, but will prevent it from sticking around and potentially turning into something more serious like Bronchitis or Pneumonia! If you plan to have your dog around other animals, it is highly recommended to keep your pup’s vaccines up-to–date! 

Kennel cough season means increased vigilance. Be sure to vaccinate on time, choose clean training facilities, avoid crowded dog events during outbreaks, and isolate and seek veterinary care quickly if your dog develops a cough. With a little planning this winter season, you can significantly reduce the chance your dog will get sick — and keep playtime fun and safe for everyone!