Infectious Tracheobronchitis in Dogs

Kennel Cough

Infectious tracheobronchitis is a contagious disease of the upper respiratory tract, which includes the trachea (windpipe) and bronchi (large air passages of the lungs). Viruses and bacteria are usually involved.

The most common sign of kennel cough is a harsh, dry cough that is often followed by gagging and coughing up foamy mucus. Otherwise, the patient appears alert and generally healthy. The disease spreads rapidly form one dog to another, but it does not affect people. Signs appear in 3 to 10 days after the dog contracts the disease. Vaccines are available to protect against kennel cough.

Kennel cough is self-limiting. Symptoms usually disappear in 1 to 3 weeks, unless complications such as pneumonia occur.