Understanding Canine Respiratory Infections: Causes, Symptoms, and When to See A Veterinarian

Last September, the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association (OVMA) announced that the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) was investigating reports of “atypical canine infectious respiratory disease.” This news left many Oregon dog owners worried and wondering how best to protect their pups. 

As a veterinary hospital that serves Portland, Beaverton, and surrounding areas, one of our top priorities is to keep you up-to-date about health issues that can impact your dog’s well-being! In this blog, we’re looking at common canine respiratory infections, what causes them, how to recognize them, and when to call your vet. 

What Is A Respiratory Infection?

Just like people, dogs can experience a whole range of respiratory ailments. Sometimes, symptoms are so mild they’re hardly noticeable, like when we have the sniffles. Other times, respiratory infections can lead to coughing, sneezing, lethargy, or even pneumonia. In rare cases, canine respiratory infections can be fatal. 

Because they can vary so much from case to case, it’s important to know when to seek veterinary care to help support your dog and manage symptoms. Let's dive into the basics of canine respiratory infections, the symptoms they cause, and how preventative care can help!

Common Types of Canine Respiratory Infections

A wide variety of viruses and bacteria can cause canine respiratory infections. However, the most common types of infections include: 

Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC)

Also known as “kennel cough,” CIRDC is a catch-all term for respiratory infections caused by various bacteria and viruses. The most common of these is Bordetella bronchiseptica. This highly contagious respiratory disease spreads through direct contact, inhalation of infected droplets, and contact with contaminated items. Because these bacteria and viruses are so contagious, they are especially common in social settings like boarding facilities, dog parks, and grooming salons. 

Canine Influenza Virus (CIV)

Commonly known as the dog flu, CIV is another highly contagious respiratory infection. It comes in two primary strains: H3N8 and H3N2. Outbreaks of canine influenza occur periodically, especially in areas with high dog populations. Because CIV has similar symptoms to CIRDC, it can be difficult to tell the two apart without laboratory testing. 

Canine Distemper 

Canine distemper is a viral infection that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. It’s much less common than kennel cough or canine influenza, largely thanks to the availability of an effective vaccine. Still, because distemper can be life-threatening, it’s important to keep it on your radar! 

Symptoms of Respiratory Infections in Dogs

Canine respiratory infections have a few telltale signs. While the severity depends on the infection, common symptoms include: 

• Persistent coughing or a “honking” cough
• Sneezing and runny nose (clear or yellow/green color)
• Red, watery eyes
• Low energy
• Loss of appetite
• Mild to moderate fever

While mild cases might resolve on their own, some infections (like distemper or severe canine influenza) can progress rapidly. Knowing when to consult with your vet is key! 

When to See a Veterinarian

Mild symptoms, like a light cough or occasional sneezing, will often resolve on their own. Keep your dog home and away from other pets while they’re symptomatic. If you see the following symptoms, it’s time to consult with a veterinarian: 

Persistent cough. If your dog has been coughing for several days without improvement or if the cough is dry, honking, or causes discomfort, it’s time for an exam. 

Yellow or green nasal discharge. Thick, colored nasal discharge can indicate a bacterial infection that may require antibiotics.

High fever. While a mild fever can be part of the body’s natural response to infection, a fever over 103°F is a signal to seek veterinary care.

Difficulty breathing. Any signs of labored breathing, wheezing, or shortness of breath warrant an immediate trip to the vet, as respiratory distress can become a serious emergency.

Other unusual symptoms. If your dog shows any signs of confusion, tremors, or seizures (possible indicators of distemper), contact your vet right away. 

Loss of appetite:  If your dog has a decreased or loss of appetite for over 24 hours, seek veterinary care. 

The Role of Vaccination in Preventing Respiratory Infections

Vaccinations are one of the easiest ways to prevent canine respiratory infections. The core vaccine series for dogs typically includes distemper and adenovirus vaccinations, which can prevent two of the more severe respiratory infections. Additionally, there are vaccines available for Bordetella and canine influenza.

Keeping your dog up-to-date on these vaccines is especially important if they regularly visit dog parks, doggy daycare, grooming or boarding facilities. Vaccinations not only protect your dog but also help prevent outbreaks in the community, as vaccinated dogs are far less likely to spread these infections. Keeping vaccines current is especially important if your pup has a chronic condition, is taking immunosuppressant medications, or has a history of severe respiratory infections. 

Protecting Your Pets, Safeguarding the Community

The team here at Mountainside Veterinary Hospital is dedicated to keeping pets healthy and protected from contagious respiratory infections. If you have questions about which vaccines are right for your dog or if your dog has been experiencing worrying symptoms, we’re here to help. Together, we can work to ensure that your dog—and all the dogs in our community—stays happy, healthy, and protected. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

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