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
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