If your dog spends time around other dogs,  daycare, boarding, grooming or even just playdates; you’ve probably heard the term kennel cough. The name sounds scary, but in most cases it behaves more like a “dog cold” than a crisis.

Just like kids pick up sniffles at school, dogs can pick up mild respiratory infections when they’re in shared environments. It’s part of life with social dogs,  not necessarily a sign something was “wrong” at the facility.

What Exactly Is Kennel Cough?

“Kennel cough” isn’t one single disease. It’s a group of contagious respiratory infections that dogs catch through close contact. It can spread through air (coughs/sneezes), shared bowls, toys, or bedding.

The most common bacteria behind it is Bordetella bronchiseptica, but there are viruses too, which is why one vaccine can reduce risk, not eliminate it fully.

Common Signs You May See at Home

A dog with kennel cough may:

  • Make a dry, honking cough that sounds like something stuck in the throat
  • Gag or retch after coughing
  • Have a mild runny nose or mild eye discharge
  • Still eat, play and act pretty normal

Most healthy dogs recover with rest and vet guidance if needed.

When It Can Be a Bigger Problem

For puppies, seniors, or dogs with weak immune systems, kennel cough can linger longer or lead to complications like pneumonia. That’s when you call your vet instead of “wait and watch.”

“But My Dog Is Vaccinated…”

Yes, and that’s still the right choice. The Bordetella vaccine:

  • Lowers severity
  • Shortens recovery time
  • Helps slow spread

It’s like the flu shot for humans, protection, not a guarantee.

What We Do at New Inn Kennels to Reduce Risk

No boarding or daycare facility can promise zero risk, but we do a lot to keep exposure low:

  • Mandatory Bordetella and core vaccines
  • Sanitizing bowls, toys, crates and play areas daily
  • Isolation & notification if coughing is spotted
  • Good ventilation and outdoor rotations

Even with strong protocols, if dogs socialize, minor exposures are always possible, that’s just the nature of group dog environments.

FAQ: Quick Answers for Worried Pet Parents

Q: Should I cancel boarding if I’m scared of kennel cough?
 A: Not unless your dog is already coughing or unwell. The benefits of socialization usually outweigh the mild risk.

Q: My dog is coughing after boarding – what do I do?
 A: Keep them away from other dogs for 7–10 days, call your vet if it worsens, and let us know so we can update our safety measures.

Q: Can humans or other pets catch it?
 A: Other dogs can; humans rarely. Cats, very rarely.

Q: Can I still board my dog if they recently recovered?
 A: Yes,  after clearance from a vet and once they are no longer contagious.

Q: Is kennel cough the facility’s “fault”?
 A: Usually, no. It spreads like a cold, even one asymptomatic dog can bring it in despite all screening and cleaning efforts.

Our Promise at New Inn Kennels

We can’t remove every germ from the world, but we can create a safe, clean, monitored place where dogs play, rest, and feel loved while you’re away. Our team is trained to catch symptoms early, communicate honestly, and care for your dog like our own.

Social dogs will always share air, just like children share classrooms. We work hard so they share fun and comfort first, not illness.