TL;DR
- • Kennel cough is the everyday name for canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC) — usually Bordetella bronchiseptica with or without parainfluenza.
- • Most healthy adult dogs recover in 1–3 weeks without treatment.
- • See a vet sooner if your dog is a puppy, elderly, brachycephalic, or stops eating.
- • The intranasal vaccine (Nobivac KC) costs £30–£50 and is required by most kennels, day cares and group training classes.
How dogs catch it
Despite the name, kennel cough spreads anywhere dogs mix — walks, daycare, training classes, the vet waiting room, even shared water bowls in pubs. Incubation is typically 2–14 days.
Symptoms to watch for
- Sudden, dry, "honking" cough — often described by owners as if something is stuck in the throat
- Retching or producing a small amount of foam after coughing
- Sneezing or mild eye/nasal discharge
- Cough triggered by pulling on the collar or excitement
- In severe cases: lethargy, off food, fever — these warrant immediate veterinary attention
When to see the vet
Most adult dogs recover without medication. Book a consult if your dog:
- Is younger than 6 months or older than 10 years
- Is a brachycephalic breed (French Bulldog, Pug, Bulldog) — airway disease decompensates faster
- Has stopped eating or drinking
- Is breathing fast at rest or with abdominal effort
- Has shown no improvement after 7–10 days
- Develops thick yellow/green nasal discharge
Treatment costs
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Consultation | £40–£75 |
| Antibiotics (only if bacterial complication) | £20–£60 |
| Anti-inflammatory | £15–£35 |
| Cough suppressant | £10–£25 |
| Chest X-ray (if pneumonia suspected) | £150–£280 |
BSAVA antibiotic stewardship guidance is clear: uncomplicated CIRDC does not require antibiotics. A vet who reaches straight for antibiotics for a mild cough is not following current guidance.
Vaccination — the cheapest insurance you'll buy
The intranasal Nobivac KC vaccine (Bordetella + parainfluenza) costs £30–£50 at most UK practices, lasts 12 months, and protects against the most common pathogens. It's mandatory for nearly every reputable kennel, day care and group training class.
Tip: book it with the booster appointment to avoid a second consultation fee.
FAQs
Is kennel cough dangerous?
In healthy adults, rarely. In puppies, elderly dogs and those with heart/lung disease, it can develop into bronchopneumonia.
Can my dog catch it from a vaccinated dog?
Yes — the vaccine doesn't cover every pathogen in the CIRDC complex (canine adenovirus, herpes, mycoplasma can also contribute) but it dramatically reduces severity.
How long should I keep my dog away from others?
Until 7 days after the cough fully resolves.
About the data: Treatment costs reflect published UK practice pricing in June 2026.