top of page
Search

Upper Respiratory Infections in Dogs

  • Writer: Diamond's Friends Pet Rescue
    Diamond's Friends Pet Rescue
  • May 30
  • 6 min read
upper respiratory infections in dogs

If your dog starts sneezing, snorting, or sounding a bit stuffy, you might be dealing with a URI, short for upper respiratory infection. These doggy “colds” are surprisingly common and often misunderstood.


But don't panic! Most cases are mild, manageable, and treatable.


Here’s what every dog owner should know about URIs.


What Is a URI in Dogs?


According to ASPCA Pet Health Insurance, a URI is a highly contagious illness in dogs that can be caused by bacteria, parasites, or viruses. It can impact your dog's airways, lungs, nasal cavities and throat.


How Common Are URIs in Dogs?


URIs are very common in dogs. In fact, the AKC reports that one version of the URI, commonly known as kennel cough, is one of the conditions veterinarians see most frequently.



What Dogs Are at a High Risk of Developing a URI?


Any dog can get a URI. However, senior dogs, puppies, and dogs with health issues are more susceptible to getting a URI.


How (And Where) Do Dogs Get URIs?


URIs can be spread through:


  • Airborne droplets (from barks, sneezes, or coughs)

  • Direct nose-to-nose contact

  • Shared items like water bowls, toys, or bedding


The most common causes of bacterial and viral URIs in dogs include:


  • Adenovirus Type II

  • Bordetella bronchiseptica

  • Canine influenza

  • Distemper


The following places may be hotspots for your dog to get a URI:


  • Dog parks

  • Dog shows

  • Doggy daycare

  • Groomers

  • Kennels

  • Shelters


Learn More: Dog Parks 101


How Long Does It Take Dogs To Show Symptoms of a URI After Exposure?


After exposure, it may take dogs anywhere from two to 10 days to start showing symptoms.


How Are URIs in Dogs Diagnosed?


Most vets start by doing an exam when making a URI diagnosis. They will also ask for information about your dog’s history.


In some cases, X-rays or lab work may be needed. But, generally, a diagnosis can be made based on your dog’s symptoms.



What Are the Symptoms of URIs in Dogs?


The following symptoms are common in dogs with URIs:


  • Appetite loss

  • Coughing

  • Eye discharge

  • Fever

  • Lethargy

  • Runny nose

  • Sneezing

  • Sore throat


In some cases, you might also hear wheezing or a “honking” cough, often associated with kennel cough.



What Health Issues Can URIs Cause in Dogs?


It is possible for your dog to develop secondary infections from a URI. These can include:


  • E-coli

  • Pneumonia

  • Staph

  • Strep


If you are dealing with a bacterial URI, you will want to get your dog on medication to try to prevent these issues from happening.



How Are URIs in Dogs Treated?


URIs in dogs are treated both at home and potentially with veterinary assistance. Many cases are self-limiting, and mild cases may not even require medical intervention.


That said, if your dog has a URI, we do recommend consulting with a veterinarian. The ASPCA recommends this as well.


We always take our dogs to see the vet if they have a URI just to make sure we are firing on all cylinders to get them healthy as quickly as possible.


At-Home Care


You can try the following tactics for at-home care if your dog has a URI:


  • Encourage hydration and nutrition

  • Keep them away from other dogs to prevent spreading it

  • Keep them warm

  • Make sure they rest

  • Use a humidifier or bring them into a steamy bathroom to ease breathing

  • Wipe runny noses


Veterinary Intervention


Veterinary intervention to help your dog recover from a URI may vary depending on the severity of their case and the cause of the infection. Treatments can include:


  • Antibiotics

  • Antiparasitics

  • Fever reducers

  • IV fluids or hospitalization for severe cases

  • Nasal drops or sprays

  • Pain medications


How Long Do URIs in Dogs Last?


It can take dogs five to ten days to recover from a URI as long as there are no complications.


What Is the Prognosis for URIs in Dogs?


The prognosis is good! Most dogs recover from URIs in one to two weeks.


That said, if the URI is caused by distemper, the prognosis isn't as favorable. The American Veterinary Medical Association says that one in two dogs who get distemper won't survive their illness. If they do, they will likely have long-term health issues.


Learn More: What Is Distemper?


Can Dogs Die From a URI?


Usually, no. URIs are generally not life-threatening unless they progress into pneumonia, are caused by distemper, or your dog has other complications.


How Long Can URI Pathogens Live on Surfaces?


It varies depending on the cause of your dog’s URI. For example, if your dog’s URI is caused by distemper, the virus generally cannot survive outside of a host for more than a few days but may live longer in food bowls or wet toys.


If your dog’s URI is a case of kennel cough, pathogens can live on surfaces for two to five days. However, it is possible for some URI pathogens to live for months on surfaces.


Ultimately, regular cleaning and disinfecting shared items is essential for stopping the spread of URIs.


Are URIs Contagious To Other Dogs?


Yes. URIs are highly contagious between dogs. If your dog is sick, you’ll want to keep them isolated from other dogs.


Are URIs Contagious From Dogs To People?


Yes, but it is very rare and depends on whether your dog has a contagious URI that can be transmitted to people.


For example, Healthline shares that people can, on rare occasion, get kennel cough from a dog. However, this generally only happens if someone has severe pre-existing conditions or is majorly immunocompromised.


On the other hand, if your dog's URI is caused by distemper, you cannot contract the disease.


How Long Are Dogs With URIs Contagious?


It depends on the underlying cause of your dog’s URI. At minimum, you should keep your dog separate from other dogs for at least a week if they have a URI.


When it comes to kennel cough, quarantining dogs for at least two weeks is wise. Additionally, dogs with distemper can remain contagious for months.


Is There a Vaccine To Prevent URIs in Dogs?


Yes, but it depends on the specific pathogen. Common URI-related vaccines recommended by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association include:


  • Bordetella bronchiseptica (kennel cough vaccine)

  • Canine parainfluenza

  • Canine adenovirus

  • Canine influenza

  • Distemper


Adenovirus and distemper are both core vaccines, while the others are non-core and recommended based on your dog’s lifestyle.



Can Dogs Who Are Vaccinated Still Get URIs?


Yes. Fortunately, vaccinated dogs often experience milder symptoms and shorter illness duration for the pathogen that causes kennel cough.


For causes like distemper, The Vets reports that vaccines are the best protection, even though they are not 100% effective.


How Can I Protect My Dog From Getting a URI?


You can try the following strategies to protect your dog from getting a URI:


  • Always vaccinate appropriately

  • Avoid high-risk places during known outbreaks

  • Quarantine your dog if they show signs of illness

  • Wash bowls and toys regularly


Final Thoughts


URIs may be common, but they don’t have to be scary. With a little awareness and quick action, your pup can stay comfortable and recover quickly.


When in doubt, talk to your vet. They’re your best advocate when it comes to keeping your dog healthy.

 

 

Disclaimer: This article is not intended as professional medical advice. It is based on personal experience and online research. Please consult with your veterinarian if you are concerned about your dog's health.




Sources

  1. The Vets. (2025, January 20). Distemper in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment. Retrieved from https://thevets.com/resources/pet-diseases/distemper-in-dogs/

  2. Greer, M. (2024, March 13). Upper Respiratory Infections: URI in Dogs. Retrieved from https://www.revivalanimal.com/learning-center/upper-respiratory-infections-uri-in-dogs?srsltid=AfmBOoqGg4ResbOutD3pqgEV8bV8WyCTIGcO5zJVQU5H2SPoegMiEBAp

  3. Squires, R.A., et al. (2024). 2024 Guidelines for the Vaccination of Dogs

    And Cats – Compiled by the Vaccination Guidelines Group (VGG) of the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA). Retrieved from https://wsava.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WSAVA-Vaccination-guidelines-2024.pdf

  4. University of Florida. (2023, December 6). For Pet Owners: Information About Mysterious Respiratory Illness in Dogs. Retrieved from https://www.vetmed.ufl.edu/2023/12/06/for-pet-owners-information-about-mysterious-respiratory-illness-in-dogs/

  5. Dallas Animal Services. (2022, November 29). Keep Your Dog Healthy. Retrieved from https://bedallas90.org/wp-content/uploads/DAS-PUB-409-URI-Handout-for-Public.pdf

  6. Johnstone, G. (2022, November 17). Upper Respiratory Infections in Dogs: What You Need to Know. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/upper-respiratory-infections-dogs-need-know/

  7. San Diego Humane Society. (2021, March 17). Canine Distemper Fact Sheet for Foster Homes. Retrieved from https://bestfriends.org/sites/default/files/2023-08/Canine%20Distemper%20Fact%20Sheet%20for%20Foster%20Homes.pdf

  8. Williams, C. (2018, March 2). Home Treatments for Upper Respiratory Infections in Dogs and Cats. Retrieved from https://www.healthypawspetinsurance.com/blog/home-cold-treatments

  9. AVMA. (n.d.). Canine Distemper. Retrieved from https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/canine-distemper

  10. Best Friends. (n.d.). Kennel Cough in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatments, Vaccine. Retrieved from https://bestfriends.org/pet-care-resources/kennel-cough-dogs-symptoms-treatments-vaccine

  11. Companion Animal Hospital of Wakefield. (n.d.). Upper Respiratory Infections in Pets: What You Should Know. Retrieved from https://wakefieldpetvet.com/blog/upper-respiratory-infection-in-pets/

  12. Healthline. (n.d.). Is Kennel Cough Contagious to Humans? Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/is-kennel-cough-contagious-to-humans

  13. M., H. (n.d.). Dog Upper Respiratory Infection Symptoms. Retrieved from https://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/resources/dog-upper-respiratory-infection-symptoms/

  14. Pinnacle Pets. (n.d.). Kennel Cough Misconceptions. Retrieved from https://pinnaclepets.com/kennel-cough-misconceptions/


Comments

Find our site helpful? Want to support our rescue and educational efforts? Please consider making a donation to Diamond's Friends Pet Rescue!

Donate with PayPal

Disclaimer: This website and all articles/information published on it are intended only as general guidance. Any information provided does not constitute health or other professional advice. Individual situations and applicable laws vary by jurisdiction. You are encouraged to obtain appropriate advice from qualified professionals. We make no representations or warranties concerning any course of action taken by any person following or otherwise using the information offered or provided on this site or within any articles, including any such information associated with and provided in connection with third-party products. We are not liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, special, exemplary or other damages that may result, including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness or death.

© 2025 by The DAWG Blog from Diamond's Friends Pet Rescue. All rights reserved.

  • Facebook
  • Instagram

Contact Us

Terms of Service

bottom of page