How Long Can a Dog Go Without Bordetella?
The Bordetella vaccine is one of the most commonly recommended non-core vaccinations for dogs, particularly for those who come in contact with other dogs. But what about dogs that don’t regularly interact with others? How long can they go without this vaccine, and what is the risk associated with skipping it?
Understanding Bordetella and Kennel Cough
Kennel cough, medically referred to as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease. The primary cause is Bordetella bronchiseptica, a bacterium that leads to inflammation in a dog’s upper respiratory tract. This makes dogs more vulnerable to secondary infections and causes symptoms like:
- Persistent dry, honking cough
- Nasal discharge
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Mild fever (in some cases)
The infection spreads via aerosol droplets, direct contact, or contaminated surfaces. High-risk environments include:
- Boarding and daycare centers
- Grooming salons
- Dog parks
- Training classes
- Dog shows
What the Bordetella Vaccine Does
The Bordetella vaccine is not a guaranteed shield, but it significantly reduces both the chance of contracting the disease and the severity of symptoms. It also helps minimize transmission. There are three forms of the vaccine:
- Injectable
- Intranasal
- Oral
Intranasal and oral options can take effect within 48–72 hours, while the injectable type may require seven days for full efficacy.
Vaccination Schedule and Duration of Immunity
For puppies, the Bordetella vaccine is recommended at 6 to 8 weeks old, with a booster shot 3 to 4 weeks later. For adult dogs, the vaccine schedule typically includes:
- Annual boosters for average-risk dogs
- Every 6 months for high-risk dogs often exposed to communal environments
While there’s some flexibility based on lifestyle, skipping this vaccine for too long could leave a dog vulnerable to illness and could even result in being denied access to dog facilities that require up-to-date vaccinations.
When You Can Skip Bordetella
Not all dogs require the Bordetella vaccination. Some scenarios where a veterinarian may not recommend it include:
- Dogs that never leave home or rarely interact with other dogs
- Older dogs with minimal social exposure
- Pets with limited travel or boarding needs
Even so, high-risk dogs like puppies, seniors, or immunocompromised companions might benefit from more frequent vaccinations to offer ongoing protection.
Potential Side Effects
Most dogs handle the vaccine well, but some may experience mild reactions such as:
- Swelling at the injection site
- Low-grade fever
- Decreased appetite
- Lethargy
- Nasal discharge or sneezing (especially with intranasal versions)
Rarely, dogs might suffer a serious allergic reaction requiring emergency care. Signs of this include vomiting, breathing difficulties, hives, or facial swelling.
Consequences of Skipping the Vaccine
While mild cases of kennel cough often resolve on their own, unvaccinated dogs are at higher risk of complications such as:
- Pneumonia
- Extended recovery times
- Hospitalization in severe cases
Treatment typically includes rest, isolation, hydration, and in some cases antibiotics or cough suppressants. Managing infected dogs properly helps prevent the disease from spreading within canine communities.
Conclusion: How Long Can a Dog Go Without Bordetella?
If your dog does not participate in communal activities, it may go without the Bordetella vaccine for extended periods with minimal risk. However, most veterinarians still recommend annual inoculations for general protection, and some high-risk animals may require biannual boosters. Whether or not your dog needs the vaccine heavily depends on lifestyle and exposure. Your veterinarian can help tailor a vaccination plan that balances risk, immunity, and well-being.
