What are the common causes of canine infectious respiratory disease?

Canine infectious respiratory disease can be caused by a variety of viruses or bacteria, and is common in dogs with incomplete vaccination coverage or in high-contact environments. A definitive diagnosis requires laboratory testing — consult your vet for further evaluation.

What tests are needed when a dog is coughing?

Common diagnostic tests include a physical examination, blood work, chest X-ray, and when necessary, nasal or throat swab culture or PCR testing to identify the likely pathogen and assess severity.

Is canine infectious respiratory disease contagious to other dogs?

Yes, most of the pathogens involved are contagious. If your dog is coughing or has a runny nose, temporarily isolate them and avoid contact with other dogs. Consult your vet about whether additional preventive measures are needed.

How long does recovery take after infection?

Recovery time depends on the pathogen and the individual dog. Mild infections may improve within a few days to a week, while more severe cases or secondary infections may require longer treatment and medical management. Follow your vet's guidance for monitoring.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Home Care [2025]

Canine infectious respiratory disease (kennel cough) is common in group-housed dogs, typically self-limiting but may progress to pneumonia

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2025/12/16

Pethealthmap editorial team

Sources: AVMA, WSAVA, Taiwan Society of Veterinary Internal Medicine

When to See a Vet

Seek immediate veterinary care (emergency)

•Very rapid breathing with pronounced labored effort of the chest
•Bluish or abnormally pale color of the lips or gums
•Coma, sluggish responsiveness, or inability to be roused

Schedule a clinic visit soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Persistent high fever with markedly poor energy for more than a day
•Cough that keeps worsening or produces heavy, thick secretions
•Markedly reduced eating and drinking with a clear drop in activity

01What symptoms indicate a problem?

Common clinical signs of canine respiratory infection and warning signs of deterioration to help owners decide when to seek veterinary care.

Lethargy or noticeably reduced activity
Decreased appetite or sudden refusal to eat
Persistent or intermittent cough, often dry or with a reflexive gagging motion
Fever or abnormal body temperature readings should be closely monitored
Runny nose, increased eye discharge, or changes in breathing sounds (wheezing)
Monitor symptoms closely and arrange a vet visit as soon as possible

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Rapid breathing or visibly laboured breathing
⚠️ Blue or abnormally pale lips or gums
⚠️ Collapse, loss of consciousness, or unresponsiveness

02What to watch for at home and when to go to the emergency vet

Recording key observations and videos before your appointment helps the vet assess the condition quickly.

Note the onset and progression of lethargy or reduced activity
Take temperature daily, recording the time and method used (rectal or ear thermometer)
Record video of coughing, wheezing, or abnormal breathing at rest and during movement
Monitor changes in appetite, water intake, and bowel or bladder habits
Note when symptoms began, any contact with other dogs, or recent group vaccination history
If symptoms worsen rapidly or breathing difficulty develops, seek emergency veterinary care immediately

03How does the vet diagnose this condition? Common diagnostic tests

The vet will use physical examination, blood tests, and imaging to identify the cause and assess severity.

Physical examination

assess respiratory rate, breathing pattern, and lung auscultation

Blood tests

evaluate overall health, infection markers, and inflammatory indicators

Chest X-ray

examine changes in the lungs, trachea, and chest cavity

Nasal or throat swab cytology or bacterial culture

clarify the likelihood of bacterial infection

PCR testing

detect viruses or specific pathogens to confirm diagnosis

CT scan for further imaging evaluation if needed

For advanced tests (PCR/CT), seek a specialist hospital with the appropriate equipment

04Treatment and aftercare: medications, diet adjustments, and home care

Treatment focuses on symptomatic relief and anti-infective measures as needed, with regular follow-up to monitor recovery.

Prescribe targeted medications or anti-infective treatment and supportive care based on test results
Schedule follow-up visits to reassess clinical signs and imaging changes (e.g. repeat chest X-ray)
Home care essentials: ensure plenty of rest and isolate from other dogs to prevent spread
Maintain adequate hydration and offer easily digestible food; assist with feeding if needed
If symptoms do not improve or recur, arrange further specialist evaluation or testing

05What to prepare before the vet visit: key information to speed up diagnosis

Prepare video and audio recordings of coughing or abnormal breathing, noting the time and context of each clip

Write a timeline of symptom onset, progression, and any animals the dog has been in contact with

Describe exercise tolerance and whether breathing worsens with activity or causes shortness of breath

Bring recent vaccination records, current medications, and past medical history if available

It is recommended to call ahead to make an appointment and ask whether videos or records can be sent to the clinic in advance

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.