Kennel Cough in French Bulldogs: How To Treat It?

If you’re a French Bulldog parent, you know how sensitive these adorable pups can be to health issues. One common concern that might send you Googling is kennel cough in French Bulldogs. This highly contagious respiratory condition can be worrying, but with the right knowledge and care, you can help your furry friend recover quickly.

What is Kennel Cough in French Bulldogs?

Kennel cough, also known as canine tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious upper respiratory infection that can affect any dog but French Bulldogs are more prone to it. This is caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria, with Bordetella bronchiseptica being the most common bacterial strain. It targets the respiratory system, that’s why it’s often characterized by a persistent cough.

How is Kennel Cough Spread?

Knowing how kennel cough is spread will help you take the necessary precautions for your French Bulldog. This is spread in environments where dogs are in close contact, such as:

• Boarding kennels: These are kennel cough hotspots because of the number of dogs in one place.
• Dog parks: While great for socialization, shared water bowls, toys or even sniffing another dog’s nose can spread it.
• Grooming salons: Shared air and tools increase the risk.
• Training classes or daycare: Close proximity and shared equipment can spread it.

Kennel cough can be spread through:

1. Airborne droplets: When an infected dog coughs or sneezes, the bacteria and viruses become airborne and can infect other dogs nearby.
2. Direct contact: Nose-to-nose or face-to-face contact between dogs can spread the infection.
3. Contaminated surfaces: Shared water bowls, toys or even surfaces like kennel doors can harbor bacteria or viruses.

Why French Bulldogs are More Prone?

French Bulldogs with their cute flat faces are more prone to respiratory issues in general. Their unique anatomy—narrow nostrils, short trachea and long soft palate—makes it harder for them to clear irritants or infections from their respiratory system. So kennel cough can hit them harder than other breeds.

Also, the reduced airflow in brachycephalic breeds can lead to complications if the infection progresses. So even a mild case of kennel cough in French Bulldogs needs attention.

How to Take Your French Bulldog Outdoors?

Since kennel cough is so contagious, be mindful when taking your Frenchie out. Here are some tips to minimize exposure:

1. Be Careful in High-Risk Areas

If you’re visiting areas with a lot of dogs, like dog parks or boarding facilities, make sure your Frenchie’s vaccinations are up to date. These are kennel cough hotspots especially if other dogs aren’t vaccinated.

2. Don’t Share Bowls and Toys

Make your dog drink from their own water bowl and don’t let them chew on shared toys. While it seems harmless, these can harbor bacteria and viruses left by infected dogs.

3. Check Other Dogs

Before letting your dog interact with others, check the other dogs around them. If you hear another dog coughing or see signs of illness like nasal discharge, stay away.

4. Choose Reputable Facilities

If you need to board your Frenchie or take them to a grooming salon, choose facilities that prioritize hygiene and require vaccinations for all dogs. Ask about their ventilation systems and cleaning protocols.

5. Limit Exposure During Outbreaks

If there’s a known outbreak of kennel cough in your area, it’s best to avoid crowded areas entirely. Stick to quieter walks and limit contact with unfamiliar dogs.

6. Strengthen Your Frenchie’s Immune System

A healthy immune system can reduce the risk of infections. Ensure your Frenchie has a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient hydration. Avoid exposing them to extreme weather, as cold air or heat can irritate their sensitive respiratory system.

Early Detection is Key

Pay attention to the early signs of kennel cough in French Bulldog:

• Are they interacting with a lot of dogs recently?
• Have they started coughing after a visit to a kennel or park?
• Do they seem more tired than usual or show signs of nasal discharge?

Recognizing the symptoms early and taking swift action can prevent complications and help your Frenchie recover faster. With the right care and precautions, you can minimize their risk while still letting them enjoy the social and physical benefits of outdoor adventures.

Recognizing Kennel Cough in French Bulldogs

The telltale sign of kennel cough in French Bulldogs is a dry hack. Many describe it as a goose honk. If you’re wondering ‘’What does kennel cough sound like in French Bulldogs?’’ Think of a persistent raspy cough that comes from way down in their throat.

French Bulldogs are prone to respiratory infections due to their brachycephalic (flat faced) head. So pay attention to the sounds your Frenchie is making.

What does kennel cough sound like in French Bulldogs?

If your French Bulldog starts coughing you may notice:

• A honking or hacking sound.
• Episodes of retching or gagging, almost like they’re trying to clear their throat.
• Wheezing or labored breathing in severe cases.

You may be freaking out if you’ve never heard what kennel cough sounds like in French Bulldogs before. The good news is it’s usually treatable with proper care.

Symptoms of Kennel Cough in French Bulldogs

Beyond the characteristic cough, a French Bulldog with kennel cough may show these symptoms:

• Runny nose or watery eyes.
• Lethargy or reduced energy.
• Mild fever.
• Loss of appetite.
• In severe cases, breathing difficulties or secondary infections like pneumonia.

Diagnosing Kennel Cough in Your French Bulldog

If you suspect your dog has kennel cough, it’s important to consult your veterinarian. They’ll typically diagnose it based on symptoms and a physical exam. In some cases, they may recommend additional tests like X-rays or lab work to rule out more serious conditions, especially if your Frenchie is struggling to breathe.

French Bulldog Kennel Cough Treatment

Once the vet has diagnosed your French Bulldog with kennel cough they will guide you on the best treatment plan. Here are the common approaches:

1. Rest and Hydration

Rest is key to recovery. Make sure your French Bulldog with kennel cough gets lots of downtime and drinks plenty of water.

2. Medications

Your vet may prescribe:

• Cough suppressants to make them more comfortable.
• Antibiotics if a bacterial infection like Bordetella is suspected.
• Anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce throat irritation.

3. Humidifiers and Steam Therapy

Using a humidifier near your Frenchie’s resting area can help calm their airways. Or you can take them into a steamy bathroom for a few minutes.

4. Avoid Irritants

Smoke, strong perfumes or cleaning products can make their cough worse. Keep their environment as clean and irritant free as possible.

5. Isolation

As kennel cough is contagious you need to keep your Frenchie away from other dogs until they are fully recovered.

Preventing Kennel Cough in French Bulldogs

Prevention is always better than cure, especially with kennel cough. Here’s how you can reduce your Frenchie’s risk:

• Vaccination: The Bordetella vaccine is recommended for dogs that socialize with others. It doesn’t guarantee immunity but reduces the symptoms.
• Minimise Exposure: Be careful when taking your French Bulldog to dog parks or boarding facilities.
• Healthy Lifestyle: A healthy diet and exercise will strengthen your Frenchie’s immune system and make them less prone to infections.

When to See a Vet?

Mild cases of kennel cough in French Bulldogs will resolve on their own with rest but certain signs need immediate attention:

• Difficulty breathing.
• Coughing more than 2 weeks.
• Secondary infections such as high fever or green nasal discharge.
• Lack of appetite or energy.

Caring for a French Bulldog with kennel cough can be tough. Their coughing and lethargy will make you feel helpless. Remember your love and care will play a big role in their recovery. Keep their favourite blanket or toy nearby to comfort them and don’t hesitate to call your vet if you have concerns.

Dealing With Kennel Cough in French Bulldogs: Conclusion

Kennel cough in French Bulldogs can be scary—literally—but with proper treatment and care it’s not life-threatening. Knowing what kennel cough sounds like in French Bulldogs and recognizing the signs early will make a big difference to your dog’s comfort and recovery.

Follow the tips above and be proactive with prevention and you’ll keep your Frenchie happy, healthy, and full of their sass.

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