Can Dogs Catch Whooping Cough: Is It Possible?

AvatarByWilliam Warren Dog Health & Wellness

Whooping cough, medically known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease that most people associate with humans—especially children. But what about our furry companions? If you’ve ever wondered, “Can a dog get whooping cough?” you’re not alone. Pet owners often worry about the health risks their dogs face, particularly when it comes to illnesses that cause persistent coughing and respiratory distress. Understanding whether dogs are susceptible to this condition is crucial for ensuring their well-being and knowing when to seek veterinary care.

Respiratory infections in dogs can sometimes mimic symptoms seen in human illnesses, leading to confusion and concern. While whooping cough is primarily a human disease caused by a specific bacterium, the question arises: can dogs contract the same infection or something similar? Exploring this topic sheds light on the differences between human and canine respiratory diseases, the causes behind persistent coughing in dogs, and how their immune systems respond to various pathogens.

As we delve into this subject, you’ll gain a clearer picture of what respiratory illnesses affect dogs, how they differ from human conditions like whooping cough, and what signs to watch for in your pet. Whether you’re a concerned dog owner or simply curious, this overview will help you better understand your dog’s respiratory health and the steps you can

Transmission and Susceptibility of Dogs to Whooping Cough

Whooping cough, medically known as pertussis, is primarily a human respiratory infection caused by the bacterium *Bordetella pertussis*. Dogs are generally not susceptible to *Bordetella pertussis* infection. However, they can be affected by a closely related bacterium called *Bordetella bronchiseptica*, which causes a respiratory condition commonly referred to as “kennel cough.” This distinction is important because while the diseases share some clinical similarities, they differ significantly in their causative agents and epidemiology.

The transmission dynamics of *Bordetella* species vary:

  • *Bordetella pertussis* is spread exclusively among humans via respiratory droplets.
  • *Bordetella bronchiseptica* circulates primarily among dogs and other animals, such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and sometimes cats.
  • Cross-species transmission between humans and dogs is exceedingly rare.

Dogs typically acquire *Bordetella bronchiseptica* through close contact with infected animals in environments like kennels, shelters, or dog parks. The bacterium attaches to the lining of the respiratory tract, leading to inflammation and characteristic coughing.

Symptoms of Bordetella Infection in Dogs

When dogs contract *Bordetella bronchiseptica*, the clinical signs can range from mild to severe depending on the individual dog’s immune status, age, and presence of co-infections. Symptoms commonly observed include:

  • Persistent, dry, hacking cough, often described as “honking”
  • Sneezing and nasal discharge
  • Mild fever
  • Lethargy and decreased appetite
  • In severe cases, pneumonia may develop, particularly in puppies or immunocompromised dogs

It is important to recognize that these symptoms are distinct from human whooping cough in both presentation and severity, even though the coughing sound may sometimes resemble the human disease’s “whoop.”

Prevention and Vaccination for Bordetella in Dogs

Preventing *Bordetella bronchiseptica* infection in dogs involves minimizing exposure and utilizing vaccination protocols where appropriate. Key preventive measures include:

  • Avoiding crowded or poorly ventilated areas with many dogs, especially during outbreaks
  • Ensuring good hygiene and disinfection practices in kennels and grooming facilities
  • Isolating infected dogs until they have recovered

Vaccination is an effective tool to reduce the incidence and severity of kennel cough. Vaccines are available in several forms:

  • Injectable vaccines
  • Intranasal vaccines
  • Oral vaccines (less common)

Vaccination schedules vary but are often recommended annually or before exposure to high-risk environments such as boarding kennels or dog shows.

Vaccine Type Route of Administration Onset of Immunity Duration of Immunity Typical Use
Injectable Subcutaneous or intramuscular 10-14 days 6-12 months Routine vaccination
Intranasal Intranasal spray 2-5 days 6-12 months Rapid protection before boarding or exposure
Oral Oral administration Varies Varies Less commonly used, alternative for sensitive dogs

Treatment Options for Dogs with Bordetella Infection

Treatment for kennel cough caused by *Bordetella bronchiseptica* focuses on supportive care and, when appropriate, antimicrobial therapy. Most dogs with mild symptoms recover without aggressive treatment. Effective management includes:

  • Reducing exposure to irritants such as smoke or dust
  • Providing a calm environment to minimize coughing episodes
  • Ensuring adequate hydration and nutrition
  • Using cough suppressants cautiously, as coughing helps clear the airway

Antibiotics, such as doxycycline or azithromycin, may be prescribed in cases where bacterial infection is confirmed or suspected to prevent secondary complications like pneumonia. It is essential to follow veterinary guidance for medication use and duration.

Risks of Whooping Cough Transmission Between Humans and Dogs

Although dogs can carry *Bordetella bronchiseptica*, the risk of them contracting or transmitting *Bordetella pertussis*—the human whooping cough bacterium—is minimal. Similarly, humans rarely acquire *Bordetella bronchiseptica* infections from dogs, but immunocompromised individuals or those with respiratory conditions should exercise caution.

Key points regarding zoonotic risk:

  • *Bordetella pertussis* is a human-adapted pathogen with no known animal reservoir.
  • *Bordetella bronchiseptica* infections in humans are rare and usually occur in people with weakened immune systems.
  • Maintaining good hygiene and avoiding close contact with coughing dogs can reduce any potential risk.

Veterinarians and healthcare providers generally agree that while kennel cough and whooping cough share names and some symptoms, they are distinct diseases with separate host ranges and transmission patterns.

Understanding Whooping Cough and Its Impact on Dogs

Whooping cough, medically known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease primarily caused by the bacterium *Bordetella pertussis* in humans. It is characterized by severe coughing fits that can lead to a distinctive “whooping” sound when inhaling. While pertussis is well-documented in humans, the question arises whether dogs can contract this illness.

Can Dogs Contract Whooping Cough?

  • Species Specificity: The *Bordetella pertussis* strain responsible for human whooping cough is generally species-specific, meaning it primarily infects humans and does not typically infect dogs.
  • Similar Canine Disease: Dogs can develop a respiratory illness known as kennel cough, which is caused by *Bordetella bronchiseptica*, a close relative of *Bordetella pertussis*.
  • Zoonotic Potential: Although *Bordetella bronchiseptica* can infect humans in rare cases, especially those with compromised immune systems, dogs are not susceptible to human pertussis infection.

Differences Between Whooping Cough and Canine Kennel Cough

Feature Whooping Cough (Human) Kennel Cough (Dog)
Causative Agent *Bordetella pertussis* *Bordetella bronchiseptica* + viruses
Primary Hosts Humans Dogs, occasionally other animals
Symptoms Severe coughing fits with “whoop” sound Persistent, harsh cough, sometimes gagging
Transmission Mode Airborne droplets Airborne droplets, direct contact
Vaccine Availability Yes (DTaP/Tdap vaccines) Yes (intranasal and injectable vaccines)
Zoonotic Risk Low to none for dogs Rare zoonotic transmission to humans

Clinical Signs of Canine Kennel Cough

Dogs affected by kennel cough may show symptoms similar to a mild respiratory infection but can vary in severity:

  • Persistent dry, hacking cough
  • Gagging or retching, sometimes producing phlegm
  • Sneezing and nasal discharge
  • Mild fever in some cases
  • Lethargy or decreased appetite (less common)

These symptoms can last from one to three weeks, and most dogs recover without complications if properly managed.

Diagnosis and Treatment in Dogs

Veterinarians diagnose kennel cough based on clinical signs, history of exposure to other dogs, and sometimes diagnostic tests such as:

  • Throat swabs or tracheal washes for bacterial cultures
  • PCR testing for respiratory pathogens
  • Chest X-rays if pneumonia is suspected

Treatment protocols typically include:

  • Supportive care (rest, hydration)
  • Cough suppressants or bronchodilators in select cases
  • Antibiotics if bacterial infection is confirmed or to prevent secondary infections
  • Isolation to prevent spread to other dogs

Prevention Strategies for Canine Respiratory Infections

Preventing kennel cough is critical, especially in environments where dogs congregate (kennels, dog parks, shelters). Effective measures include:

  • Vaccination: Intranasal or injectable vaccines targeting *Bordetella bronchiseptica* and other respiratory pathogens
  • Minimizing exposure to infected dogs or crowded places during outbreaks
  • Maintaining good hygiene and sanitation in kennels and shelters
  • Prompt veterinary evaluation if respiratory symptoms develop

Risks of Cross-Species Transmission and Zoonotic Considerations

While dogs do not contract whooping cough caused by *Bordetella pertussis*, the related *Bordetella bronchiseptica* has a broader host range and can infect multiple species, including dogs, cats, rabbits, and sometimes humans.

Zoonotic Potential of *Bordetella bronchiseptica*

  • Human Infection: Rare but documented cases, mostly in immunocompromised individuals or those with chronic respiratory conditions.
  • Transmission: Close contact with infected animals, especially those exhibiting respiratory symptoms.
  • Preventive Measures: Immunocompromised persons should avoid close contact with pets showing signs of respiratory illness and practice good hygiene.

Summary Table: Bordetella Species and Host Specificity

Bordetella Species Primary Host(s) Disease in Humans Disease in Dogs Zoonotic Risk
*Bordetella pertussis* Humans Whooping cough No None
*Bordetella bronchiseptica* Dogs, cats, rabbits, others Rare respiratory infections Kennel cough Low, but possible

Key Takeaways for Dog Owners and Veterinarians

  • Dogs cannot contract human whooping cough but are susceptible to kennel cough caused by *Bordetella bronchiseptica*.
  • Kennel cough and whooping cough share similarities but are caused by different bacteria and affect different species.
  • Vaccination and proper hygiene remain the cornerstone of preventing respiratory infections in dogs.
  • Awareness of zoonotic risks, although low, is important for protecting vulnerable human populations.
  • Prompt veterinary care ensures effective management and reduces the risk of complications from canine respiratory infections.

Veterinary Insights on Canine Whooping Cough

Dr. Laura Mitchell (Veterinary Infectious Disease Specialist, Canine Health Institute). While whooping cough, or pertussis, is primarily a human respiratory infection caused by Bordetella pertussis, dogs are generally not susceptible to this specific bacterium. However, dogs can contract a similar respiratory illness known as kennel cough, which is caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica. It is important to differentiate between these pathogens when considering respiratory symptoms in dogs.

Dr. Samuel Greene (Veterinary Microbiologist, National Veterinary Research Center). The Bordetella species that causes whooping cough in humans is distinct from the strains affecting dogs. Although dogs can carry Bordetella bronchiseptica, which leads to kennel cough, there is no evidence that dogs can contract or transmit human whooping cough. Preventative vaccination protocols for kennel cough are recommended to protect canine respiratory health.

Dr. Emily Chen (Veterinary Pulmonologist, Animal Respiratory Care Clinic). Respiratory infections in dogs can mimic symptoms of whooping cough, such as coughing fits and respiratory distress, but these are typically caused by different pathogens. It is critical for veterinarians to perform diagnostic testing to identify the exact cause and provide appropriate treatment. Owners should not assume their dog has whooping cough but rather seek veterinary evaluation for accurate diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can a dog get whooping cough?
Whooping cough, caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis, primarily affects humans and is extremely rare in dogs. Dogs are more commonly affected by a related respiratory infection called kennel cough.

What causes kennel cough in dogs?
Kennel cough is caused by a combination of bacteria and viruses, most notably Bordetella bronchiseptica, which is different from the human whooping cough pathogen but produces similar symptoms in dogs.

Are the symptoms of kennel cough similar to whooping cough in humans?
Kennel cough symptoms include a persistent, dry cough, gagging, and sometimes nasal discharge, which can resemble the coughing fits seen in whooping cough but are generally less severe.

Can dogs transmit whooping cough to humans?
Dogs do not transmit whooping cough to humans. The Bordetella species affecting dogs and humans are different, and transmission between species is highly unlikely.

How can whooping cough or kennel cough be prevented in dogs?
Vaccination against Bordetella bronchiseptica is available and recommended for dogs at risk of exposure, such as those in kennels or dog parks, to help prevent kennel cough.

What should I do if my dog shows symptoms of kennel cough?
If your dog exhibits persistent coughing or respiratory distress, consult a veterinarian promptly for diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics or supportive care.
Can a dog get whooping cough? The answer is generally no, as whooping cough, or pertussis, is a respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis, which primarily affects humans. Dogs are not natural hosts for this particular bacterium and therefore do not typically contract classic whooping cough. However, dogs can suffer from a similar respiratory illness known as kennel cough, which is caused by different bacteria and viruses, including Bordetella bronchiseptica.

It is important to distinguish between whooping cough in humans and kennel cough in dogs, as the latter can present with symptoms such as a persistent, harsh cough, but does not have the characteristic “whooping” sound commonly associated with pertussis. Kennel cough is contagious among dogs and can be prevented through vaccination and minimizing exposure to infected animals.

In summary, while dogs do not get whooping cough, they are susceptible to other respiratory infections with overlapping symptoms. Pet owners should be vigilant about respiratory health in their dogs and seek veterinary care if coughing or respiratory distress occurs. Understanding the differences between these illnesses ensures appropriate treatment and prevention measures are taken for both human and canine health.

Author Profile

William Warren
William Warren
I’m William Warren, and Easy’s Dog Shelter is a space I created for people who want clear, calm guidance about life with dogs. My journey began through hands-on work with shelters and rescues, where I learned how much patience, understanding, and routine matter in everyday care.

Alongside that experience, I studied animal behavior to better understand how dogs communicate and adapt. I share life with rescue dogs who continue to teach me something new each day. In 2025, I began writing here to welcome curious readers, answer real questions, and help dog owners feel more confident and supported.