Symptoms of Kennel Cough in Rottweilers

The Rottweiler is a large breed favored by dog lovers for its loyalty and protective instincts. Like any dog breed, Rottweilers are susceptible to contracting kennel cough, an infectious condition that attacks the respiratory system. Kennel cough can have a number of causes, both viral and bacterial in nature. Medical treatment may be required to minimize symptoms and treat any secondary infections that occur.

  1. Cough

    • The primary symptom of kennel cough in Rottweilers is a chronic, forceful cough-like sound. The sounds created by this condition do not sound like a typical dog cough but more like a loud, dry, honking sound. Reverse sneezing may also occur with kennel cough and be confused as a coughing sound. Reverse sneezing is characterized by loud, rapid inhalations through the nose that sound similar to a cough made to try to clear the throat.

    Sneezing

    • Sneezing is another sign of kennel cough in Rottweilers and should not be confused with reverse sneezing. Reverse sneezing creates rapid inhalations through the nose, but regular sneezing in dogs is the same as in humans. A sudden expulsion of air is passed out of the nose and mouth. Kennel cough causes sinus irritation, leading the dog to sneeze in an attempt to expel the irritant from its nasal passage.

    Mucous Discharge

    • The multiple viruses that cause kennel cough often cause mucous discharge, including a runny nose or discharge from the eyes. If your Rottweiler is experiencing mucous discharge that is yellow or green in color, you should contact your veterinarian immediately, because this is usually the sign of an infection that will require antibiotics for treatment. Excessive coughing may cause your Rottweiler to expel phlegm. Foamy, white phlegm is normal under these circumstances, but if the phlegm is yellow or green or appears to contain blood, contact your veterinarian.

    Fever

    • Some dogs may experience fever with kennel cough, but this symptom is not seen as frequently as the others. If your dog is running a fever, it may be indicative of a secondary infection in the body. The average temperature for a dog is between 101 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. A body temperature of 103 degrees or more is usually considered a fever in dogs. It is difficult to accurately diagnose a dog fever without taking the animal's temperature rectally, but there are some symptoms that may indicate fever. Loss of appetite, lethargy and shivering are not symptoms of kennel cough, but a dog with kennel cough may exhibit these symptoms if it is running a fever as well.