Kennel cough, or canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is one of the most common respiratory illnesses seen in dogs—including Pomeranians. Often compared to the human cold or flu, kennel cough can spread quickly in environments where dogs mix, such as grooming salons, training classes, boarding kennels, and dog shows. For small breeds like the Pomeranian, whose delicate airways are more sensitive, this condition can be especially concerning.
In this article, Pomeranian breed authority Denise Leo, together with resident veterinarian Dr. Muqeet Mushtaq (DVM, MSc Animal Breeding & Genetics), explains what kennel cough is, how it spreads, and the potential risks associated with vaccination. Our goal is to provide balanced, reliable information so you can make the best decision for your Pomeranian’s health.
It’s common to want to protect your Pomeranian against kennel cough by vaccinating him. However, the kennel cough part of that vaccine is UNSAFE for Poms.
Kennel cough (aka Bordetella) is incredibly contagious with horrendous complications that can sometimes lead to pneumonia. Humans spread the common cold incredibly fast, at a comparable speed to the spread of kennel cough in the canine world, according to numerous veterinarians.
Pomeranian owners kick up a huge fuss over vaccines, but if your dog is young and healthy, kennel cough is more annoying than a problem. The sound a dog makes with kennel cough is awful – it’s a combination of coughing, hacking, and choking.
It’s a “so-called self-limiting” problem, meaning it doesn’t get worse and generally won’t need a complicated treatment plan. In rare cases, young puppies or dogs of an advanced age may require extra attention if they develop complications.
It’s human nature to want to keep your dog healthy (and all other dogs, for that matter), so, in the same way you trust your own human doctor to care for you, a vet is entrusted with your dog’s health.
Before giving your Pom any vaccines, ask these questions:
- How safe is the vaccine?
- Will it be effective?
- How dangerous is kennel cough?
- How hazardous is the disease to your dog compared to the vaccine?
- Are yearly Bordetella vaccinations really necessary for my dog?
- Can a dog die from kennel cough? How is it treated?
- Are yearly Bordetella vaccinations really necessary for my dog?
Here are some facts you should know before deciding if the vaccine for kennel cough is the ideal option for your Pomeranian.
Kennel Cough Vaccine – Vital Information You Need To Know
Kennel Cough (also known as Bordetella) is a vaccine that most people associated with your dog will advise you is essential (e.g., your groomer, veterinarian, training facility staff, boarding kennel staff, and individuals at doggie day care). It’s a routine requirement for dogs that spend any time around other dogs (and that’s virtually every dog).
Amazingly, there’s actually a vaccine for this condition. As a self-limiting disease, the danger to your canine friend is similar to the common cold’s danger to you.
However, boarding kennels and day care venues are very concerned about it, and I’ll explain why in a minute. It’s normal for you to keep your own children home if they get a cold.
If your dog gets a cold, everyone convinces you that it’s a highly contagious, dangerous disease. The frightening thing about this is that three problems occur to make this a very serious issue.
The Vaccine Really Doesn’t Do A Good Job
There’s a strong reason why this vaccine won’t work well. At least 40 different agents can cause kennel cough.
However, there are only two agents within this vaccine. Despite this fact, veterinarians are still very busy vaccinating large numbers of dogs every single day to address this one problem.
They’ll keep recommending this vaccine if your dog spends ANY time around other dogs…because they think it actually works, or they are encouraged by the drug companies to push this vaccine to unsuspecting dog owners.
Pomeranian Vaccine Reactions Are Common After Kennel Cough Vaccination
These kennel cough vaccine reactions or bordetella shot side effects can range from mild to life-threatening. Another fact your vet may neglect to mention is that the intranasal Bordetella vaccine is part of a combination injection that also contains the parainfluenza vaccine. This intranasal form can cause problems such as pneumonia, an irritable trachea, or a collapsed trachea.
All vaccines also elevate histamines, which is dangerous as it can cause infections and cancer. After vaccinations, Pomeranians can and have developed life-threatening autoimmune diseases.
Why do dogs get a kennel cough after vaccination?
Something not widely known: After vaccinations, dogs shed kennel cough into the environment for up to seven weeks and parainfluenza for approximately one week. It means that, after vaccinations, your dog can spread kennel cough to all the dogs it comes into contact with. Pomeranians may exhibit kennel cough symptoms after vaccination.
Now that you have this extra information, is vaccinating your dog against kennel cough still a great idea?
However, if your dog is highly susceptible to Bordetella/Kennel Cough, you must get him vaccinated. In all other cases, if somebody demands that you give your healthy dog the kennel cough vaccine, you’ll want to assess different options.
I have written this article to encourage Pomeranian owners to seriously consider the reasons behind getting their dogs vaccinated. If a healthy Pom doesn’t get put into daycare or boarded, then it should be your choice whether to do so or not.
Consider this – Why on earth would you give your Pomeranian a vaccination that can make him seriously ill or may not even work at all?
There are over 40 strains of Kennel Cough, and the Bordetella vaccine only covers 10-14 different strains. Does that sound like a smart way to treat Kennel Cough?
If you’re providing your Pomeranian with a healthy, well-balanced diet, supplementing it with coconut oil and other natural remedies, that’s half the battle. If he’s generally healthy and isn’t in contact with other canines regularly, there’s no reason to empty your pockets with expensive vaccines that may not work or could cause him serious harm.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kennel Cough and Pomeranians
What is kennel cough in dogs?
Kennel cough (canine infectious tracheobronchitis) is a highly contagious respiratory illness that causes inflammation of the trachea and bronchi. It is often recognized by a persistent, harsh, “honking” cough.
How do Pomeranians catch kennel cough?
Kennel cough spreads through direct contact, airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing, and contaminated surfaces like food bowls or grooming tools. Pomeranians can be exposed at kennels, dog shows, grooming salons, obedience classes, or even on walks where dogs interact.
Is kennel cough dangerous for Pomeranians?
While many healthy dogs recover, Pomeranians are a toy breed with smaller, more delicate airways, making them more vulnerable to complications. Puppies, senior dogs, and those with underlying health issues may be at higher risk of severe illness.
Does the kennel cough vaccine prevent the disease completely?
No. The kennel cough vaccine may reduce symptoms in some dogs, but it does not guarantee full protection. Breakthrough infections are still common, and vaccinated dogs can sometimes develop kennel cough.
Should Pomeranians be given the kennel cough vaccine?
Many Pomeranian breeders and experts do not recommend the kennel cough vaccine for Pomeranians due to the potential for adverse reactions in this sensitive toy breed. Owners should carefully weigh the risks and benefits with their veterinarian before making a decision.
Are there alternatives to vaccination for preventing kennel cough?
Yes. Reducing exposure is key. Avoid crowded environments with unknown dogs, ensure good ventilation at shows or grooming salons, and keep your Pom away from sick animals. Maintaining strong overall health through proper nutrition, grooming, and stress reduction also helps support the immune system.
What should I do if my Pomeranian develops kennel cough?
If your Pom shows symptoms—such as persistent coughing, lethargy, nasal discharge, or loss of appetite—consult your veterinarian promptly. Mild cases often resolve with rest, while severe cases may require medical treatment to prevent complications, such as pneumonia.
Conclusion
Kennel cough is a contagious illness that can affect Pomeranians, but the decision to vaccinate should never be taken lightly. While some veterinarians may recommend the kennel cough vaccine for dogs in high-risk environments, many Pomeranian experts and breeders, including Denise Leo, advise against it due to the potential risks and limited effectiveness in this delicate toy breed.
Instead, focus on prevention through responsible management—avoiding crowded environments, practicing good hygiene, and keeping your Pom in peak health. By staying informed and working closely with your trusted veterinarian, you can make the best choice for your Pomeranian’s unique needs.
At Pomeranian.org, our goal is to provide balanced, expert-backed information, enabling every Pom lover to make confident, well-informed decisions for their beloved companion.
Please note: while I do discuss health, care, and behavioral issues, you should never use this information as a replacement for advice from qualified veterinarians, diagnoses, or recommended treatment regimes. If you have any worries about the health of your Pomeranian, your first contact should be your regular vet or, if you don’t yet have one, a vet that works locally. Never ignore or avoid treatment and advice from your vet because of a piece of information you have read on any website.
Copyright Pomeranian.Org. All Rights Reserved.
📚 References & Further Reading
- [1] AKC Pomeranian Breed Standard (2011)
- [2] English Kennel Club Breed Standard
- [3] The Pomeranian Handbook – Denise Leo
- [4] Denlinger, The Complete Pomeranian
- [5] Kimbering, 1891–1991
- [6] Taplin, The Sportsman’s Cabinet
- [7] Parker, The Popular Pomeranian
- [8] Ives, Show Pomeranians
The Pomeranian Handbook
Natural Kennel Cough Remedies
- RELIEVE RESPIRATORY DISCOMFORT: Dog coughing treatment chewable tablets are sspecially designed to relieve coughing in dogs. They effectively soothe dry coughs, wet coughs, improve symptoms associated with kennel cough. The gentle formula contains natural ingredients that protect respiratory system function, allowing your beloved pet to breathe more smoothly and comfortably
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- For Dogs with Ongoing Coughing & Respiratory Sensitivity: For dogs that cough occasionally, breathe heavily after activity, or show throat sensitivity during seasonal or environmental changes. Designed for pets whose respiratory comfort fluctuates over time—not just one-time situations
- Mullein-Based Respiratory Support with Multi-Herb Blend: Formulated with mullein leaf, licorice root, echinacea, skullcap, grindelia, osha root, and rosemary—botanicals traditionally used to support respiratory function. This blend helps maintain airway comfort, throat ease, and overall breathing balance as part of daily care
- Supports Comfortable Breathing & Airway Function: Supports normal airflow and helps maintain clear, steady breathing patterns. Especially relevant for dogs exposed to dust, seasonal changes, or indoor air conditions that may affect respiratory comfort over time
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- Easy Liquid Format That Dogs Accept More Easily: Liquid drops mix easily into food or can be given directly. No pills or powders—ideal for picky dogs. Dropper format supports consistent daily use without added stress or resistance
- Throat Calm & Dog Cough Comfort: Helps soothe throat irritation and calm dry coughing caused by excitement, leash pulling, barking, or seasonal air dryness. A gentle way to support throat comfort and everyday respiratory wellness for dogs
- Collapsed Trachea Support for Dogs: Formulated to support dogs experiencing airway sensitivity associated with tracheal irritation. Helps maintain normal trachea comfort and supports easier breathing for dogs prone to coughing or throat strain
- Herbal Support for Throat & Respiratory Comfort: Slippery elm and mullein help coat and soothe delicate throat tissues, supporting natural throat calm while helping maintain a comfortable airway
- Helps Maintain Clear Breathing & Respiratory Balance: Botanical extracts help support the body’s natural respiratory balance, helping dogs stay active and comfortable while supporting normal breathing and airway wellness
- Easy Liquid Trachea Supplement for Dogs: Liquid drops make daily use simple. Add to food or water, or give directly using the dropper for convenient throat and cough support
- Antibiotics for Dogs: Dog antibiotics selects organic ingredients with the power of nature.. Antibiotics for dog helps to keep your dog in good condition and strengthens its resistance. Antibiotics for dog lets your dog embrace health and vitality
- Natural Ingredients: Antibiotics for dog is made with nature’s safe ingredients including Echinacea,Wormwood and Oregano.Dog antibiotic helps to replenish your dog’s key vitamins,boost the immune system, promote digestive health, and fight off infections
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- Suitable for All Breeds and Sizes: Dog antibiotics is suitable for all breeds, ages and sizes of dogs, providing balance for the whole organism of your pet, dog antibiotic aids does not contain any additives and is completely safe for all dogs
- How to Use: Aantibiotic for dogs infection skin is equipped with a dropper, according to the weight of the dog and the amount of demand, take the appropriate amount, dog antibiotics dietary supplement can also be mixed with food, water or milk
- Cough Suppressant for Dogs and Cats: Cats & dog cough treatment is in liquid form and can provide a solution for pets with breathing problems and respiratory disorders, kennel cough treatment naturally and gently relieves your pet’s cough, choose kennel cough for cats and let your beloved pet breathe better
- Natural Extracts: Cat and dog cough suppressant is formulated from a variety of natural ingredients with mild herbal effects. Dog cough relief effectively relieves respiratory problems and strengthens the immune system. Relief designed for dogs is free of artificial additives, bringing safe and healthy care to your beloved pets
- Formulation Characteristics: Cough treatment for dogs and cats specifically formulated to address dry, wet, barking and wheezing coughs. Kennel cough drops for dogs and cats helps pets beat coughs and soothe irritated throats. Kennel cough treatment for dogs and cats helps pets regain free breathing
- For Pets of All Ages: Cat & dog cough treatment suitable for all breeds, ages and sizes of dogs and cats, safe to use whether your pet is a puppy or an adult, a small dog or a large dog. Dog cough supplement Ensure that your beloved pet receives the most comprehensive care and support
- Ease of Use: Equipped with a precise dropper, cough suppressant for dogs, cats can be used by dropping it in dog food or water, or directly in the mouth. Kennel cough treatment is the best alternative as chewable tablets, capsules, pills,kennel cough for cats provides your beloved pet with a more comfortable using experience
- BREATHING SUPPORT: A cat and dog cough suppressant helps maintain normal breathing and lung function. Simply add drops to your pet’s food or water as part of their daily wellness routine.
- PLANT-BASED FORMULA: Crafted with carefully selected herbal ingredients and free from artificial colors, flavors, or unnecessary additives. A clean formula made to complement your pet’s nutrition.
- VERSATILE HELP: Suitable for pets experiencing seasonal sensitivities, occasional coughing, or environmental changes. Helps promote overall comfort and balance in the throat.
- FOR ALL BREEDS & SIZES: Our cough suppressant for dogs and cats is formulated for pets of different breeds, sizes, and life stages. Easy to adjust serving based on weight for consistent daily use.
- SIMPLE LIQUID FORMAT: Easy-to-serve formula is designed for fast absorption. Dosage as follows: pets under 10 lbs – 0.5 ml; 10–35 lbs – 1 ml; over 36 lbs – 2 ml.
- Tracheal Cough Support: This herbal liquid formula is designed for small breeds such as Pomeranians and Chihuahuas to help support normal trachea and airway function. Gentle for everyday use, it helps maintain comfortable breathing during activity and supports overall respiratory comfort.
- Supports Comfortable Breathing: Excitement, running, or leash walking may place temporary strain on a dog’s airways, sometimes leading to occasional coughing or throat irritation. This herbal airway support formula helps maintain healthy airways and smooth breathing. Gentle for daily use, it supports a natural breathing rhythm and helps keep your dog comfortable whether active or at rest.
- Multi-Herbal Airway Support Blend: Formulated with a blend of herbal extracts including Trichosanthes kirilowii, Astragalus membranaceus, Magnolia officinalis, and Rehmannia glutinosa, this formula helps support respiratory balance and airway comfort. Alcohol-free and free from artificial colors or fragrances, it is gentle enough for everyday use to help maintain comfortable breathing.
- Comfortable Breathing Day and Night: Airway sensitivity may occur not only during exercise but also while resting or at night. This herbal formula helps support comfortable breathing during both activity and rest. Gentle for daily use, it helps maintain natural breathing patterns and supports overall respiratory comfort so your dog can stay relaxed and comfortable throughout the day.
- Easy-to-Use Liquid Drops: The liquid formula makes daily feeding simple and convenient compared with tablets or chewables. The included graduated dropper allows precise weight-based dosing. It can be given directly or mixed with food or water. The chicken flavor makes it more appealing for dogs, helping turn daily airway support into an easy routine.
- 【NATURAL SUPPORT】Natural Respiratory Relief for Coughs & Hoarseness: Ease your pet’s discomfort quickly and naturally. Our Mullein Drops are expertly crafted to provide fast-acting relief from kennel cough, seasonal coughing, and hoarseness. The soothing properties help calm the throat and reduce the urge to cough, allowing your dog or cat to rest and recover comfortably.
- 【SOOTHES THROAT DISCOMFORT & IRRITATION】： A scratchy, irritated throat can be miserable for any pet. Our formula directly targets and soothes throat discomfort, providing a calming coating to the throat’s membranes. It’s ideal for pets who strain their voices or experience irritation from dry air or minor respiratory challenges.
- 【LUNG HEALTH】Supports Easier Breathing & Lung Cleansing： Help your pet breathe more freely. Mullein is renowned for its ability to support the respiratory system by helping to clear mucus and soothe irritated airways. These drops work to cleanse the lungs, making it easier for your pet to breathe, especially during allergy season or in dusty environments.
- 【CONCENTRATED BLEND】Promotes Long-Term Lung Health & Function: Premium quality mullein leaf extract enhanced with chlorophyll for optimal effectiveness and pet wellness support. Natural mullein leaf extract is known for over centuries for its powerful benefits in respiratory tract and overall lung health. Use mullein drops helps lung cleanse and support your pet’s natural defense. Go beyond temporary relief and invest in your pet’s long-term wellness. Regular use of our Mullein Drops helps maintain open airways and supports the overall health and function of the lungs.
- 【EASY DOSING】 Easy-to-Administer & Formulated for Safety： Simplifying pet care is our priority. The liquid drops can be easily added to your pet’s water, food, or administered directly into the mouth with the included dropper. Made with high-quality, natural ingredients and formulated specifically for the sensitivity of both dogs and cats, you can trust you’re giving your companion a safe and effective supplement., Pets Under 20 Lbs: 1/2 Dropper, Pets 20-35 Lbs: 1 Dropper, Pets 36+ Lbs: 2 Droppers, Once To Twice Per Day.
- Designed for Small Breed Airway Support: This herbal airway support formula is specially developed for small breeds such as Pomeranians and Chihuahuas. It helps maintain normal airway function and supports comfortable breathing. Gentle for daily use, it helps promote respiratory comfort during activity so your dog can stay active and comfortable.
- Maintains Comfortable Breathing: When dogs become excited, run, or walk on a leash, their airways may experience temporary strain, which can lead to occasional dry coughs or throat irritation. This herbal formula helps support healthy airways and comfortable breathing. Designed for daily use, it helps maintain a natural breathing rhythm and supports respiratory comfort whether your dog is active or resting.
- Multi-Herbal Complex Formula: This formula combines carefully selected plant extracts, including Trichosanthes kirilowii, Astragalus membranaceus, Magnolia officinalis, and Rehmannia glutinosa, which work together to support respiratory balance. The alcohol-free formula contains no artificial colors or fragrances and is suitable for daily use. It gently supports airway comfort and helps maintain smooth breathing for dogs needing extra airway care.
- Dual Breathing Support for Activity and Rest: Airway sensitivity may appear not only during exercise but also while resting or at night. This herbal formula helps support comfortable breathing in both active and resting states. Designed for daily use, it helps maintain a natural breathing rhythm and supports overall respiratory comfort so your dog can stay relaxed during rest and daily activities.
- Liquid Drops for Easy Feeding: Compared with tablets or chewables, this liquid formula is easy to administer and allows flexible dosage control. The included graduated dropper helps ensure precise weight-based serving. It can be given directly or mixed with food or water. With a natural chicken flavor, it is easier for dogs to accept, making daily airway care simple and stress-free.
- Tailored Trachea Care for Small Dogs: If your pup often makes a dry, harsh “honking” sound or coughs until they gag or wheeze—especially after excitement, collar pressure from a collar, hot humid walks, or eating or drinking—this is made for them. These patterns are especially common in Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians and other toy breeds, so we created a small-dog herbal formula focused on throat and trachea comfort for calmer everyday breathing
- Relief From Repeat Coughing Episodes: On-again, off-again coughing fits can leave both dogs and owners exhausted and on edge. Our herbal blend gently soothes irritated throat tissues and hoarseness, including discomfort caused by leash strain. It also helps calm the coughing cycle by supporting the throat and airways, reducing the frequency and duration of episodes and helping your dog relax, offering your dog the support they need for happy howls!
- Easier Breathing for Sensitive Airways: In dogs with tracheal weakness, the C-shaped cartilage rings that normally hold the airway open can lose structure, so the windpipe narrows or partly collapses when they breathe, bark or get excited. Our demulcent-rich herbal blend helps calm reactive airway linings and promote smoother airflow, letting small dogs walk, play and relax without working so hard for every breath
- Immune & Seasonal Herbal Balance: Small dogs with fragile airways often struggle more when the air changes—kennel stays, travel, indoor heating or AC, smoke or dust. Our blend with echinacea, slippery elm, mullein leaf and other botanicals helps maintain a healthy immune response in the upper respiratory tract, helping your pup stay steady instead of flaring up with every shift in weather or air quality
- Vet-Guided, Safe & Easy To Give: Developed with veterinary input, this gentle formula is made without harsh chemicals, artificial flavors, or unnecessary fillers, so you can feel good using it long term for sensitive small dogs. The fast-absorbing liquid comes with a marked dropper for precise dosing by weight and can be given directly or mixed with a small amount of food for stress-free daily use
