Updated September 25, 2026. Fact-checked against veterinary sources; review by a licensed veterinarian is in progress. See our editorial policy.
Quick answer: Some dogs develop mild sneezing, nasal discharge, or a soft cough for a few days after an intranasal or oral Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccine. This is usually a mild, short-lived reaction to the live vaccine. Call your vet if your dog has a fever, lethargy, poor appetite, fast breathing, or signs lasting more than a week, since these may mean an actual infection.
Normal reactions
- Sneezing
- Mild clear nasal discharge
- Occasional soft cough
- Usually starts within a few days and resolves within a week
When to call your vet
- Fever, lethargy, or not eating
- Thick yellow or green discharge
- Fast or labored breathing
- Signs lasting more than a week
- Facial swelling, hives, vomiting, or collapse (possible allergic reaction, an emergency)
Why dogs may still get kennel cough
- Kennel cough is caused by many different germs, and vaccines cover only some
- Vaccines reduce severity rather than preventing every infection
- Immunity takes time to develop after vaccination
Home care
- Rest and a harness instead of a collar
- Avoid other dogs for a few days if your dog is sneezing
Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Canine infectious respiratory disease complex
- Lappin MR, et al. Antimicrobial use guidelines for treatment of respiratory tract disease in dogs and cats: ISCAID. J Vet Intern Med. 2017
- Ellis JA, et al. 2022 AAHA Canine Vaccination Guidelines. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc. 2022
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for care from your own veterinarian. Learn about The Pet Vet and our editorial policy.