Is Dog’s Kennel Cough Contagious to Humans?

It is common to hear about kennel cough when discussing pet care in everyday conversation, but what is it? Is kennel cough contagious to humans? 

It is a common yet concerning respiratory condition that can prevail quickly among dogs.  

The canine infectious tracheobronchitis condition is especially prevalent in environments where dogs come into close contact, such as kennels, dog parks, and shelters. 

This article answers that question and provides essential insights on;

• What exactly is kennel cough?
• How do dogs get kennel cough?
• Common symptoms
• Is kennel cough contagious to humans?
• Possible complication of kennel cough in humans
• Preventing measures in dogs
• Available treatment options

What is Kennel Cough?

It is an upper respiratory infection that can badly affect dogs if not treated in a timely manner. It is caused mainly by bacteria and viruses.

Main Causes:

• Bordetella bronchiseptica
• Canine parainfluenza virus
• Canine adenovirus type 2
• Canine coronavirus (Different strain from COVID-19)

How Do Dogs Get Kennel Cough?

Similar to humans, dogs can also get viral or infectious diseases from other infected dogs or dogs with viral issues. 

Dogs usually get the disease from airborne particles or contaminated environments. 

Also, when an infected dog coughs or sneezes, it releases bacteria and viruses into the air, which nearby dogs can inhale. 

Key Risk Factors:

• Crowded Environments: 

Kennels, shelters, and dog parks.

• Poor Ventilation: 

Increases exposure to airborne pathogens.

• Stress: 

High-stress environments can weaken a dog’s immune system.

• Cold Temperatures: 

Can make dogs more susceptible to respiratory infections.

What Are the Symptoms of Kennel Cough?

Generally, the signs of kennel cough in healthy adult dogs are not very serious, but the disease can be quite severe in puppies, elderly dogs, or immune-compromised dogs. 

Common Symptoms:

• Persistent, dry, honking cough
• Runny nose or nasal discharge
• Sneezing
• Loss of appetite (in severe cases)
• Mild fever

And it lasts from a few days to several weeks, depending on the severity of the infection and the dog’s immune response.

Can Humans Get Kennel Cough?

Is Kennel Cough Contagious to Humans, and Who is at Risk?

• Higher risk due to weaker immune defense (e.g., HIV/AIDS, chemotherapy).
• Pre-existing conditions like asthma or COPD increase vulnerability.
• Repeated exposure to infected dogs elevates risk for vets and staff.
• Age-related immune decline may increase susceptibility in older adults.
• Developing immune systems in children poses a slight risk, though rare.

Protective Measures for Pet Owners and Veterinarians:

• Wash hands well after handling or treating infected dogs to prevent spread.
• Use gloves and masks to minimize risk, especially for high-exposure roles.
• Weak-immune individuals should avoid close contact with kennel-cough dogs.
• Regularly clean pet bedding, toys, and shared spaces.
• Avoid high-traffic pet areas if kennel cough is suspected.
   

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Kennel Cough Complications in Humans

Keep in mind that healthy people don’t generally face a risk from kennel cough. More often than not, research shows there’s an underlying condition that increases the risk of infection.

Research reported that 7 out of 8 patients with confirmed kennel cough had a significant preexisting medical condition, such as lung disease or autoimmune neutropenia.

Humans who do acquire kennel cough may develop pneumonia or an upper respiratory tract infection.

Some serious complications of pneumonia may include:

• Septic shock: Infection spreads to the blood, potentially fatal.
• Lung abscesses: Pus collects in lung cavities.
• Pleural effusion: Fluid builds up around lung tissue.
• Respiratory failure: Severe cases may impair breathing.

Preventing Kennel Cough in Dogs

Preventing the condition is especially important in multi-dog settings and other practice areas.

Kennel cough vaccines won’t protect against all strains, but they can reduce the chance of catching the disease by half.

Vaccination Options:

• Intranasal Vaccine: 

Often used for rapid immunity, administered through the nose.

• Injectable Vaccine: 

Provides broader immunity but may take longer to be effective.

• Oral vaccine: 

This is a newer option that is effective in protecting and easing administration.

Other Preventive Measures:

• Ensure yearly vaccinations
• Avoid unnecessary dog exposure to high-risk environments
• Reduce overcrowding in dog facilities

How Veterinarians Diagnose Kennel Cough in Dogs

A diagnosis for kennel cough in dogs can be made based on the dog’s symptoms, history, and response to therapy. 

Normally, the condition is treated with antibiotics and other support care. 

The diagnostic tests are usually recommended for:

• Dogs where pneumonia is suspected.
• Dogs that do not respond to supportive care.
• Dogs with signs of systemic disease.
• If an outbreak is occurring in multiple dogs.

These diagnostic tests may include:

• Blood work
• Chest X-rays
• PCR testing (looking for the genetic material of a virus or bacteria to diagnose an infection)   

Treatment Options for Kennel Cough in Dogs

1. Cough Suppressants

It helps alleviate the persistent, dry cough that often accompanies kennel cough, giving dogs relief from throat irritation. 

This treatment helps restful sleep at night, but veterinarians should recommend it.

• Reduces coughing frequency
• Soothes irritated throat tissues
• Provides better nighttime rest
• Supports the overall healing process
• Only prescribed for severe cases

2. Antibiotics

These medications help combat bacterial agents directly, lowering the risk of complications, especially in puppies, senior dogs, or immunocompromised pets.

• Targets specific bacterial infections.
• Reduces contagiousness in severe cases.
• Prevents secondary infections.
• Often given as oral medication.
• Shortens recovery time in high-risk dogs.

3. Humidifiers and Steam Therapy

A humidifier, or using steam therapy, adds moisture to the air and eases breathing, easing coughing. 

The increased humidity will help loosen the dog’s mucus, allowing it to clear naturally.

• Loosens mucus buildup
• Relieves dry, scratchy throat
• Soothes inflamed airways
• Helps open up nasal passages
• Ideal for home treatment

4. Isolation

Isolating a dog with kennel cough prevents the spread of infection to other pets and helps create a calm environment for recovery. 

This is especially crucial in multi-pet households or boarding facilities.

• Prevents cross-infection
• Reduces exposure to other animals
• Lowers stress on the infected dog
• Provides a restful recovery area
• Should continue until symptoms improve

5. Supportive Care

It ensures your dog remains hydrated, well-fed, and comfortable throughout recovery. 

This care helps strengthen the immune system naturally, enhancing recovery outcomes when combined with other treatments.

• Encourages rest and recovery
• Maintains hydration levels
• Boosts the immune response
• Complements medical treatments
• Essential in mild cases

Brand Awareness

The curiosity, “Is kennel cough contagious to humans?” should now end with the above quality information and facts. The chance that the disease will shift to humans from an infected kennel cough dog is rare. 

However, if the above symptoms are present, take proper care and avoid cuddling with dogs. Always get quick help when you suspect your dog has kennel cough symptoms. 

DVM Central is a leading veterinary marketplace where you can buy quality dog-related products and address common disease concerns. 

Additionally, we conduct RACE-approved Virtual Expos to help veterinary professionals stay current with trends and elevate their practices. 

 

FAQs

Is kennel cough contagious to humans, and does it infect humans?

Yes, it is contagious and is rare to transmit to healthy humans. However, the disease can still be transmitted from dogs to humans. This happens when the contact person has a weakened immune system or chronic respiratory conditions. Generally, healthy individuals face a low risk.

What should I do if my dog has kennel cough?

You immediately follow the below steps to rescue your dogs from the disease.

• Keep your dog isolated from other pets
• Monitor symptoms
• Consult your veterinarian
• In severe cases, use veterinarians recommended medications

How long does kennel cough last in dogs?

Typically, the kennel cough lasts 7 to 21 days or 1-3 weeks. However, if your dog’s immune system is good and you apply the above-recommended preventative measures, then it cures early.