Many things can cause your dog to cough. Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex – CIRDC is a new term to describe the various pathogens that can cause coughing and other respiratory signs in dogs. Viruses and bacteria that can cause your dog to cough include Bordetella, commonly referred to as Kennel Cough, Staphlococcus or Streptococcus infection, and also the viruses, Canine Distemper, Canine Parainfluenza, Canine Influenza, Canine Adenovirus Type 2, and Canine Influenza, also known as dog flu.

Dog flu is the most recently discovered virus.  One, H3N8, originated as a horse virus, but crossed over into dogs. The other, H3N2) originated as a bird virus and crossed over to dogs. H3N8 was first identified in dogs in 2004 in Florida and H3N2 was first found in Asia around 2002.

How would they spread?

Just like the way a cold or flu transfers in from people to people, these bacteria and virus transfer to a healthy dog through direct contact with respiratory secretions from an infected dog,. Sometimes contaminated clothing or food and water bowls can store and transfer the disease.  A dog that is visiting a kennel, doggie day care, or other social areas are at most risk at becoming infected.

How serious are these diseases?

Sometimes these pathogens only cause mild respiratory illness and some may be life-threatening.   Canine Distemper most often results in severe clinical signs and death while a majority of bordetella infections resolve with supportive care and TLC. 

How can I prevent these diseases?

Prevention is key. There are vaccines available for most respiratory pathogens. Talk to your veterinarian about vaccination options for your dog.