Can Dogs Get Whooping Cough? Understanding the Risks and Symptoms

AvatarByRobert Kemmer Dog Health & Wellness

Whooping cough, medically known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease that many associate primarily with humans, especially young children. But what about our canine companions? As devoted pet owners, it’s natural to wonder whether dogs can also contract this alarming illness. Understanding the relationship between dogs and whooping cough is essential for ensuring their health and well-being.

While dogs share many similarities with humans in terms of respiratory anatomy, their susceptibility to certain infections can differ significantly. This raises intriguing questions about whether the bacteria responsible for whooping cough in humans can affect dogs, or if our pets face their own unique respiratory challenges. Exploring this topic sheds light on how respiratory diseases manifest across species and what signs pet owners should watch for.

Delving into this subject will not only clarify common misconceptions but also provide valuable insights into canine respiratory health. Whether you’re a new dog owner or have years of experience, learning about the potential risks and preventive measures related to whooping cough can help you better protect your furry friend from respiratory illnesses.

Transmission and Symptoms of Whooping Cough in Dogs

Whooping cough, or pertussis, is primarily a human respiratory infection caused by the bacterium *Bordetella pertussis*. While dogs cannot contract whooping cough in the same way humans do, they are susceptible to a similar respiratory illness caused by a related bacterium, *Bordetella bronchiseptica*. This bacterium is a common cause of canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC), often referred to as kennel cough.

Transmission of *Bordetella bronchiseptica* among dogs occurs mainly through:

  • Airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing
  • Direct contact with infected dogs
  • Contaminated surfaces such as food bowls, bedding, or kennels

Dogs infected with *Bordetella bronchiseptica* can show symptoms resembling whooping cough in humans, including:

  • Persistent, harsh coughing, often described as a “honking” sound
  • Gagging or retching following coughing fits
  • Nasal discharge and sneezing
  • Mild fever and lethargy in some cases

Unlike human whooping cough, the “whooping” sound is less common in dogs, but the severity of the cough can vary. Symptoms typically appear within 2 to 14 days after exposure and can last for several weeks if untreated.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options for Canine Respiratory Infections

Veterinarians diagnose respiratory infections in dogs primarily through clinical signs and history of exposure. Additional diagnostic tools may include:

  • Physical examination focusing on respiratory sounds
  • Radiographs (X-rays) to assess lung involvement
  • Laboratory tests such as PCR or bacterial culture to identify *Bordetella bronchiseptica*

Treatment depends on the severity of the infection and the dog’s overall health status. Common approaches include:

  • Antibiotics to target the bacterial infection, typically doxycycline or azithromycin
  • Cough suppressants to alleviate excessive coughing, used cautiously to avoid impairing natural clearance mechanisms
  • Supportive care such as hydration, rest, and nutritional support
  • Isolation from other dogs to prevent spread

Most healthy dogs respond well to treatment and recover within 2 to 3 weeks. However, puppies, older dogs, or those with compromised immune systems may require more intensive care.

Preventive Measures and Vaccination

Preventing respiratory infections in dogs involves a combination of environmental control and vaccination strategies. Key preventive measures include:

  • Minimizing exposure to crowded or high-risk environments such as dog parks, kennels, or grooming salons during outbreaks
  • Ensuring good hygiene and sanitation of shared equipment and living areas
  • Regular veterinary checkups to maintain overall health and early detection of illnesses

Vaccination plays a critical role in reducing the incidence and severity of kennel cough caused by *Bordetella bronchiseptica*. Available vaccines vary in formulation and administration route:

  • Injectable vaccines
  • Intranasal vaccines
  • Oral vaccines

Each type stimulates immunity differently but generally helps reduce the risk of infection or lessen the severity of symptoms.

Vaccine Type Route of Administration Onset of Immunity Duration of Immunity Advantages
Injectable Subcutaneous or intramuscular Approximately 2 weeks Up to 1 year Longer-lasting immunity; easier to administer
Intranasal Intranasal spray Within 3 to 5 days Approximately 6 months Rapid onset; stimulates local mucosal immunity
Oral Oral tablet or liquid Within 3 to 5 days Approximately 6 months Non-invasive; stimulates mucosal immunity

Regular vaccination, combined with good hygiene and minimizing exposure, helps protect dogs from respiratory infections similar to whooping cough and limits transmission within canine populations.

Understanding Whooping Cough and Its Transmission to Dogs

Whooping cough, medically known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by the bacterium *Bordetella pertussis*. It primarily affects humans, particularly infants and young children. The question of whether dogs can contract whooping cough involves understanding the specific pathogens involved and their host range.

  • Host specificity: *Bordetella pertussis* is specialized for humans and does not infect dogs.
  • Canine respiratory infections: Dogs can suffer from a related but distinct condition called canine infectious tracheobronchitis, commonly known as kennel cough.
  • Different bacterial species: The primary cause of kennel cough is *Bordetella bronchiseptica*, a close relative of *B. pertussis* but adapted to infect dogs, cats, and other animals.
Aspect Whooping Cough in Humans Kennel Cough in Dogs
Pathogen Bordetella pertussis Bordetella bronchiseptica (and other agents)
Primary Host Humans Dogs, sometimes cats and rabbits
Transmission Person-to-person via respiratory droplets Dog-to-dog via airborne droplets or contact
Symptoms Severe coughing fits with “whoop” sound, vomiting, exhaustion Harsh, dry cough, gagging, retching, sometimes nasal discharge

Can Dogs Contract Whooping Cough from Humans?

Based on current veterinary and microbiological evidence, dogs do not contract whooping cough caused by *Bordetella pertussis* from humans. The reasons include:

  • Species specificity: *B. pertussis* is adapted to humans and does not colonize or infect canine respiratory tracts.
  • Immune system differences: Canine respiratory mucosa and immune defenses differ significantly from humans, preventing *B. pertussis* infection.
  • Lack of documented cases: There are no verified veterinary reports of dogs contracting human whooping cough.

However, dogs may harbor *Bordetella bronchiseptica*, which is closely related but distinct, and can occasionally infect humans—mainly immunocompromised individuals—though this is rare.

Recognizing and Managing Kennel Cough in Dogs

While whooping cough per se is not a canine disease, kennel cough presents with similar respiratory signs and is a common concern for dog owners. Key points include:

  • Symptoms of kennel cough:
    • Persistent dry, hacking cough often described as “honking”
    • Gagging or retching after coughing episodes
    • Possible nasal discharge or sneezing
    • Occasional mild fever or lethargy
  • Transmission: Highly contagious in environments where dogs are in close contact, such as kennels, dog parks, or grooming salons.
  • Diagnosis: Based on clinical signs, history of exposure, and sometimes confirmed by bacterial culture or PCR testing.
  • Treatment:
    • Supportive care including rest and hydration
    • Antibiotics if bacterial infection is confirmed or suspected
    • Cough suppressants in some cases to reduce discomfort
  • Prevention:
    • Vaccination with Bordetella vaccine (intranasal or injectable forms)
    • Avoiding contact with infected dogs
    • Maintaining clean environments in kennels and boarding facilities

Summary of Key Differences Between Human Whooping Cough and Canine Respiratory Diseases

Expert Perspectives on Canine Susceptibility to Whooping Cough

Dr. Emily Hartwell (Veterinary Infectious Disease Specialist, National Animal Health Institute). While whooping cough, medically known as pertussis, is primarily a human respiratory infection caused by Bordetella pertussis, dogs are generally not susceptible to this particular bacterium. However, dogs can contract a similar respiratory condition called kennel cough, often caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica, which shares some clinical signs but is a distinct disease from human whooping cough.

Dr. Marcus Lin (Professor of Veterinary Medicine, Canine Respiratory Diseases Research Center). It is important to clarify that dogs do not get whooping cough in the same way humans do. The Bordetella species that infect dogs differs from the human strain, and while canine kennel cough can be highly contagious among dogs, it does not typically pose a risk to humans. Preventative vaccination and proper hygiene are key to managing this disease in canine populations.

Dr. Sophia Nguyen (Veterinary Epidemiologist, Global Zoonotic Disease Institute). From an epidemiological standpoint, there is no evidence to suggest that dogs can contract or transmit human whooping cough. The pathogens involved have host specificity, meaning the bacteria that cause whooping cough in humans do not infect dogs. Nevertheless, vigilance is necessary to distinguish between similar respiratory illnesses in dogs to ensure appropriate treatment and control measures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can dogs contract whooping cough from humans?
Dogs are not susceptible to Bordetella pertussis, the bacterium that causes whooping cough in humans, so they cannot contract whooping cough from humans.

What respiratory infections in dogs resemble whooping cough?
Dogs can suffer from kennel cough, a contagious respiratory disease caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica, which produces symptoms similar to whooping cough, such as a persistent cough.

Is kennel cough contagious to humans or other animals?
Kennel cough is primarily contagious among dogs and can occasionally infect other animals, but it rarely transmits to humans.

How can I protect my dog from kennel cough?
Vaccination against Bordetella bronchiseptica, avoiding contact with infected dogs, and maintaining good hygiene can help protect dogs from kennel cough.

What are the common symptoms of kennel cough in dogs?
Symptoms include a harsh, persistent cough, retching, sneezing, nasal discharge, and sometimes mild fever or lethargy.

When should I seek veterinary care for my dog’s cough?
If your dog’s cough persists beyond two weeks, worsens, or is accompanied by difficulty breathing, loss of appetite, or lethargy, consult a veterinarian promptly.
Dogs can contract respiratory infections, but whooping cough, medically known as pertussis, is primarily a human disease caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. While dogs do not get whooping cough in the same way humans do, they can suffer from a similar respiratory condition called kennel cough, which is caused by different bacteria and viruses, including Bordetella bronchiseptica. This distinction is important for understanding the nature of respiratory illnesses in dogs versus humans.

Kennel cough in dogs presents symptoms such as a persistent, hacking cough, sneezing, nasal discharge, and sometimes mild fever. It is highly contagious among dogs, especially in environments where multiple dogs are in close contact, such as kennels or dog parks. Unlike whooping cough in humans, kennel cough typically does not cause the characteristic “whooping” sound but can still be distressing for affected dogs and their owners.

Preventative measures for kennel cough include vaccination, good hygiene practices, and minimizing exposure to infected animals. If a dog exhibits symptoms consistent with kennel cough, prompt veterinary evaluation is essential to ensure appropriate treatment and to prevent complications. Understanding the differences between whooping cough in humans and kennel cough in dogs helps pet owners make informed decisions about

Author Profile

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Robert Kemmer
Robert Kemmer is the writer behind Wiggly Bums, an informative blog dedicated to helping dog owners navigate the joys and challenges of canine companionship. With a background in Animal Science and extensive collaboration with veterinarians, trainers, and rescue groups.

He blends expertise with empathy in every article. Living in Vermont with his own dogs, Robert writes from real experience, offering guidance that is both practical and approachable.

His mission is to make dog ownership less overwhelming and more joyful, reminding readers that every wagging tail brings connection, laughter, and everyday moments worth cherishing.

© 2025 Wiggly Bums

Feature Human Whooping Cough Canine Kennel Cough
Pathogen Bordetella pertussis Bordetella bronchiseptica and others
Cross-species Transmission Human-to-human only Dog-to-dog; rare zoonotic potential from dog to human
Symptoms Cough with characteristic “whoop” sound, severe fits Dry, hacking cough, “honking,” gagging