# Bordetella vaccine for dogs ## Key Takeaways - The Bordetella vaccine is a non-core immunisation designed to mitigate the severity and duration of canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC) signs caused by *Bordetella bronchiseptica*, not to prevent infection entirely. - Three vaccine formulations exist: injectable (killed bacteria, slower systemic immunity), intranasal (modified-live bacteria, rapid local mucosal immunity within 72 hours), and oral (modified-live bacteria, rapid local mucosal immunity). - Vaccination is strongly recommended for dogs with high exposure risk, including those attending daycare, boarding kennels, dog parks, or grooming salons, and is optional for low-risk dogs. - Clinical signs of CIRDC include paroxysmal, dry, honking cough, gagging, and mucoid nasal discharge, with puppies and immunocompromised dogs at higher risk for progression to bronchopneumonia. - Booster frequency varies, with annual vaccination recommended for most at-risk dogs, and every 6 months for those in very high-exposure environments, due to potential waning of mucosal immunity. - Adverse events are generally mild and self-limiting, with rare instances of hypersensitivity reactions or vaccine-associated disease in immunocompromised individuals. --- **This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment.** ## What is the Bordetella vaccine for dogs? The Bordetella vaccine for dogs is a non-core immunisation designed to reduce the severity and duration of clinical signs associated with *[Bordetella bronchiseptica](/knowledge/bacteria/pet-bacteria/bordetella-bronchiseptica)*, a primary bacterial agent in canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC), commonly known as kennel cough. This vaccine does not prevent infection entirely, but it significantly lowers the risk of severe respiratory illness and reduces bacterial shedding [1]. The decision to vaccinate should be based on a dog's individual lifestyle, exposure risk, and overall health status, as outlined in the AAHA Canine Vaccination Guidelines [2]. ### At a glance: Bordetella vaccine decision guide | Factor | Low-Risk Dog | High-Risk Dog | | :-, | :-, | :-, | | **Lifestyle** | Lives alone, minimal contact with other dogs, walks in low-traffic areas. | Attends daycare, boarding kennels, dog parks, grooming salons, or group training classes. | | **Exposure** | Rarely meets unfamiliar dogs. | Regular contact with dogs from varied households. | | **Health status** | Healthy adult, no history of respiratory disease. | Puppy, senior, brachycephalic breed, or has pre-existing respiratory or cardiac disease. | | **Recommendation** | Vaccination is optional; discuss with your veterinarian. | Vaccination is strongly recommended. | | **Route** | Injectable or intranasal/oral, based on vet preference. | Intranasal or oral preferred for faster local immunity. | | **Booster frequency** | Annually or as per local guidelines. | Every 6 to 12 months, depending on exposure level. | ## Understanding the pathogen: *[Bordetella bronchiseptica](/knowledge/bacteria/pet-bacteria/bordetella-bronchiseptica)* *Bordetella bronchiseptica* is a Gram-negative, aerobic coccobacillus that colonises the ciliated epithelial cells of the upper respiratory tract [3]. It is a primary pathogen in CIRDC, often acting in concert with other agents such as [canine parainfluenza virus](/knowledge/viruses/pet-viruses/canine-parainfluenza-virus) (CPiV), [canine adenovirus](/knowledge/viruses/pet-viruses/canine-adenovirus) type 2 (CAV-2), and *Mycoplasma* species. The bacterium produces several virulence factors, including adhesins (filamentous haemagglutinin, fimbriae) and toxins (tracheal cytotoxin, dermonecrotic toxin), which damage cilia, impair mucociliary clearance, and trigger an inflammatory response [4]. This damage leads to the characteristic dry, hacking cough, often followed by a gagging sound as the dog attempts to clear mucus. ## Clinical presentation and risk factors ### Signs of CIRDC The incubation period for *B. bronchiseptica* infection is typically 2 to 14 days. Clinical signs include: - Paroxysmal, dry, honking cough. - Gagging or retching, especially after exercise or excitement. - Clear to mucoid nasal discharge. - Mild lethargy and reduced appetite in some cases. - Low-grade fever. In otherwise healthy adult dogs, the disease is usually self-limiting, resolving within 7 to 14 days. However, in puppies, geriatric dogs, and those with compromised respiratory or immune function, infection can progress to bronchopneumonia, which is a more serious condition requiring veterinary intervention [5]. ### Risk factors for exposure Any environment where dogs from different households congregate increases the risk of exposure. These include: - Boarding kennels and daycare facilities. - Dog parks and group walks. - Grooming salons. - Animal shelters and rescue organisations. - Veterinary hospital waiting rooms. - Training classes and dog shows. The AVMA and AAHA both recommend that dogs with regular exposure to these settings receive the Bordetella vaccine [2, 6]. In Canada, the CVMA similarly advises vaccination for dogs at risk, though it is not considered a core vaccine for all dogs [7]. ## Vaccine types and routes of administration Three formulations of the Bordetella vaccine are available in North America, Europe, and Australia. Each has distinct advantages and limitations. ### 1. Injectable vaccine The injectable form contains killed (inactivated) *B. bronchiseptica* bacteria. It is administered subcutaneously, typically as part of a combination vaccine (e.g., with canine distemper, adenovirus, parainfluenza, and parvovirus, often designated as DAPP + B). It provides systemic immunity but is less effective at inducing local mucosal immunity in the upper airways compared to intranasal or oral vaccines [8]. The injectable vaccine is generally considered safe for most dogs, but it may have a slightly slower onset of protection. ### 2. Intranasal vaccine The intranasal vaccine contains live, attenuated (modified-live) *B. bronchiseptica* bacteria, often combined with CPiV. It is administered as a single dose (0.5 mL) into one nostril. This route stimulates local mucosal immunity, including secretory IgA antibodies, which are the first line of defence against inhaled pathogens. The intranasal vaccine provides faster protection, often within 72 hours, making it ideal for dogs that need rapid coverage before boarding or travel [9]. ### 3. Oral vaccine The oral vaccine is a newer formulation that also contains live, attenuated *B. bronchiseptica*. It is administered as a liquid squirted into the dog's cheek pouch. Like the intranasal form, it stimulates local mucosal immunity. The oral route is often preferred for dogs that are difficult to handle or that resist nasal administration. It has a similar onset of protection to the intranasal vaccine [10]. ### Comparative summary of vaccine routes | Feature | Injectable | Intranasal | Oral | | :-, | :-, | :-, | :-, | | **Type** | Killed (inactivated) | Modified-live | Modified-live | | **Immunity** | Systemic (IgG) | Local mucosal (IgA) + systemic | Local mucosal (IgA) + systemic | | **Onset of protection** | 7 to 14 days | 72 hours | 72 hours | | **Duration of immunity** | 12 months | 12 months (some products 6 months) | 12 months | | **Ease of administration** | Easy (injection) | Moderate (requires restraint) | Easy (oral squirt) | | **Common side effects** | Injection site soreness, mild lethargy | Sneezing, coughing, mild nasal discharge | Mild salivation, gagging | | **Best for** | Dogs that tolerate injections well; combination vaccines | Dogs needing rapid protection; high-risk environments | Dogs that resist nasal administration | ## Efficacy and duration of immunity The Bordetella vaccine does not provide sterilising immunity. Vaccinated dogs can still become infected with *B. bronchiseptica* and shed the bacteria, though they typically exhibit milder or subclinical disease [11]. The primary goal of vaccination is to reduce the severity of clinical signs and limit the spread of infection within a population. ### Duration of protection Most manufacturers and veterinary guidelines recommend annual revaccination for dogs at continued risk. For dogs in high-exposure environments (e.g., boarding kennels, daycare), some experts suggest a booster every 6 months, as the mucosal immunity induced by intranasal and oral vaccines may wane more quickly [2, 12]. The AVMA states that for dogs with intermittent exposure, vaccination every 6 to 12 months is appropriate [6]. ### Breakthrough infections Breakthrough infections, where a vaccinated dog develops clinical signs of CIRDC, can occur. This is often due to: - Infection with other pathogens (e.g., CPiV, CAV-2, canine influenza, *Mycoplasma*). - Incomplete immunity from a single dose in a naive dog. - Waning immunity in a dog that has not received a timely booster. - High infectious pressure in a heavily contaminated environment. Even in breakthrough cases, vaccinated dogs generally have a shorter duration of illness and less severe signs compared to unvaccinated dogs [8]. ## Safety and adverse events All three forms of the Bordetella vaccine have a strong safety record. Adverse reactions are generally mild and self-limiting. ### Common side effects - **Injectable:** Transient injection site pain or swelling, mild lethargy, decreased appetite for 24 to 48 hours. - **Intranasal:** Sneezing, mild nasal discharge, or a soft cough for a few days after administration. This is due to the local immune response and is not a sign of disease. - **Oral:** Mild salivation, gagging, or lip smacking immediately after administration. ### Rare adverse events - **Hypersensitivity reactions:** Urticaria (hives), facial swelling, or, in very rare cases, anaphylaxis. These reactions are more common with injectable vaccines. - **Vaccine-associated disease:** In immunocompromised dogs, the modified-live intranasal or oral vaccine could theoretically cause clinical disease, though this is extremely rare. The vaccine should not be administered to dogs that are systemically ill or receiving immunosuppressive therapy [9]. - **Pneumonia:** There have been isolated reports of pneumonia following intranasal vaccination, particularly in very young puppies or dogs with pre-existing respiratory disease. However, a causal link is difficult to establish, and the risk is considered very low [13]. ### Contraindications The Bordetella vaccine should not be given to: - Dogs with a known history of anaphylactic reaction to a previous dose. - Dogs with moderate to severe systemic illness (fever, vomiting, diarrhoea). - Dogs receiving high-dose glucocorticoids or other immunosuppressive drugs. - Pregnant or lactating bitches, unless the risk of exposure is very high and the benefit outweighs the potential risk (consult your veterinarian). - Dogs with a history of respiratory disease or brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) should be assessed individually, as they may be at higher risk for complications from respiratory infections [5]. ## Vaccination schedules and protocols ### Initial vaccination (primary course) - **Puppies:** The first dose can be given as early as 6 to 8 weeks of age. A second dose is given 2 to 4 weeks later (at 10 to 12 weeks) to ensure adequate immunity. For intranasal and oral vaccines, a single dose is often sufficient for primary immunisation, but some manufacturers recommend a booster after 2 to 4 weeks for optimal protection [2, 10]. - **Adult dogs:** If an adult dog has no history of Bordetella vaccination, a single dose of intranasal or oral vaccine, or two doses of injectable vaccine given 2 to 4 weeks apart, is recommended. ### Booster vaccination - **Annual:** For most dogs at continued risk, an annual booster is standard. - **Every 6 months:** For dogs in high-exposure environments (e.g., working dogs, show dogs, dogs that board frequently), a 6-month booster may be recommended by the veterinarian [12]. - **Before boarding:** Many boarding kennels require proof of Bordetella vaccination within the past 6 to 12 months. The intranasal or oral vaccine is often preferred because of its rapid onset. ### Combination with other vaccines The Bordetella vaccine is often given concurrently with other core and non-core vaccines. The AAHA guidelines state that vaccines can be administered at the same visit, as long as they are given at different anatomical sites [2]. There is no evidence that combining vaccines increases the risk of adverse events beyond that of individual vaccines. ## Regional considerations and guidelines ### United States The AVMA and AAHA classify the Bordetella vaccine as non-core. It is recommended for dogs with an increased risk of exposure. The AAHA Canine Vaccination Guidelines provide a detailed risk assessment framework for veterinarians [2, 6]. ### Canada The CVMA similarly considers the Bordetella vaccine non-core. Vaccination is recommended for dogs that are boarded, attend daycare, or participate in group activities [7]. ### Europe The FVE and the European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases (ABCD) for cats, and the Vaccination Guidelines Group (VGG) of the WSAVA for dogs, provide guidance. In Europe, the Bordetella vaccine is considered non-core and is used primarily in dogs with high exposure risk. The vaccine is available in many EU countries, but its use varies [14]. ### Australia The AVA recommends the Bordetella vaccine for dogs at risk. The vaccine is not considered core, and its use is based on lifestyle assessment. In Australia, the intranasal and oral forms are more commonly used than the injectable form [15]. ### United Kingdom The British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) considers the Bordetella vaccine non-core. It is recommended for dogs that are regularly kennelled, attend shows, or are in close contact with other dogs. The vaccine is widely used in the UK, particularly the intranasal form [16]. ## Clinical reasoning behind the Bordetella vaccination decision The decision to vaccinate a dog against *Bordetella bronchiseptica* extends beyond simple lifestyle categorization. Veterinary clinicians evaluate several nuanced factors when determining whether vaccination is appropriate for an individual patient. One critical consideration is the dog's prior history of respiratory disease. Dogs that have experienced severe or recurrent episodes of CIRDC may benefit more substantially from vaccination, as their immune system has already demonstrated vulnerability to respiratory pathogens [5]. Conversely, dogs that have never developed clinical signs despite repeated exposure may possess natural resistance that reduces the incremental benefit of vaccination. Another clinical consideration is the timing of vaccination relative to planned exposure. For dogs that require rapid protection before boarding or travel, the intranasal or oral route is strongly preferred due to its onset of protection within 72 hours [9]. However, clinicians must also consider that a dog receiving its first dose of intranasal or oral vaccine may not achieve full protective immunity until 10 to 14 days after administration, even though partial protection begins earlier. This distinction is important when advising owners about when their dog can safely enter a high-risk environment. The presence of concurrent medical conditions also influences the vaccination decision. Dogs with brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), tracheal collapse, or chronic bronchitis are at increased risk for severe complications from CIRDC, including bronchopneumonia [5]. For these patients, the benefits of vaccination often outweigh the risks, even if their lifestyle would otherwise place them in a lower-risk category. However, the same dogs may be more prone to adverse effects from intranasal vaccination, such as transient worsening of respiratory signs. In such cases, the injectable vaccine may be preferred despite its slower onset and less robust mucosal immunity. ## Diagnostic workflow for suspected CIRDC in vaccinated and unvaccinated dogs When a dog presents with acute onset of coughing, the diagnostic approach differs depending on vaccination status, clinical severity, and exposure history. For dogs that are up to date on Bordetella vaccination and present with mild, uncomplicated cough, a presumptive diagnosis of CIRDC is often made based on history and physical examination alone. In these cases, further diagnostic testing may not be necessary unless signs persist beyond 10 to 14 days or worsen despite supportive care [5]. For unvaccinated dogs or those with severe signs, a more thorough diagnostic workup is warranted. Thoracic radiographs are indicated to rule out bronchopneumonia, especially in puppies, seniors, and brachycephalic breeds. Radiographic findings in uncomplicated CIRDC are typically unremarkable, whereas bronchopneumonia may show alveolar or interstitial patterns, particularly in the cranial lung lobes [5]. Complete blood count and serum biochemistry may reveal leukocytosis or neutrophilia in cases of secondary bacterial infection. When diagnostic confirmation is needed, particularly in outbreak settings or when multiple dogs in a household are affected, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing on nasal or pharyngeal swabs can identify *B. bronchiseptica* and other respiratory pathogens. However, PCR cannot distinguish between live and dead organisms, and false positives can occur in recently vaccinated dogs due to shedding of vaccine-strain bacteria [10]. For this reason, a positive PCR result in a dog that received intranasal or oral vaccine within the preceding two weeks should be interpreted cautiously. Culture and sensitivity testing may be indicated when antimicrobial resistance is suspected, though this is rarely performed in first-opinion practice. ## Evidence limitations and gaps in current knowledge Veterinary clinicians must acknowledge several important limitations in the evidence base supporting Bordetella vaccination. First, the majority of efficacy studies were conducted using challenge models in laboratory dogs, which may not fully replicate natural infection dynamics [11]. Field studies evaluating vaccine effectiveness under real-world conditions are comparatively scarce, and those that exist often rely on owner-reported outcomes rather than objective clinical measures. Second, the duration of protective immunity following vaccination is not precisely defined. While manufacturers label products for 12-month duration of immunity, some studies suggest that mucosal antibody levels decline significantly within 6 to 8 months after intranasal or oral vaccination [10]. This uncertainty underlies the variability in booster interval recommendations across different guidelines and facilities. Third, there is limited high-quality evidence comparing the three vaccine routes head-to-head in terms of clinical outcomes. Most comparative data come from immunogenicity studies measuring antibody titers rather than infection rates or disease severity [8]. The clinical significance of differences in antibody profiles between routes remains incompletely understood. Fourth, the interaction between Bordetella vaccination and other components of CIRDC is complex. Because CIRDC is a multifactorial syndrome involving viruses, bacteria, and environmental factors, the proportion of respiratory disease attributable to *B. bronchiseptica* specifically is difficult to quantify. Vaccination against *B. bronchiseptica* may reduce the incidence and severity of CIRDC overall, but it does not eliminate the risk of disease caused by other pathogens [11]. ## Owner observation and preparation for a veterinary visit Owners play a critical role in the successful management of their dog's respiratory health. Before a veterinary visit, owners should be prepared to provide a detailed history that includes the onset and character of the cough, any accompanying signs such as nasal discharge or lethargy, and the dog's recent exposure to other dogs. Owners should also note whether the cough is productive or non-productive, whether it occurs more frequently at night or after exercise, and whether the dog has experienced any gagging or retching episodes. For dogs scheduled to receive the Bordetella vaccine, owners should be advised to monitor their pet for any signs of illness in the 24 hours preceding the appointment. Dogs with fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or significant lethargy should generally not receive the vaccine until they have recovered [9]. Owners should also inform the veterinarian if their dog has a history of vaccine reactions, respiratory disease, or immunosuppressive therapy. After vaccination, owners should be counseled on what to expect. For intranasal vaccine, mild sneezing or nasal discharge may occur for 24 to 72 hours. For oral vaccine, transient salivation or gagging is common immediately after administration. For injectable vaccine, mild injection site soreness or lethargy may be noted for 24 to 48 hours. Owners should be instructed to contact their veterinarian if signs persist beyond 72 hours, worsen, or are accompanied by difficulty breathing, facial swelling, or hives [13]. ## Prevention strategies beyond vaccination While vaccination is a cornerstone of CIRDC prevention, it is most effective when combined with other management strategies. Environmental hygiene plays a significant role in reducing pathogen transmission. *B. bronchiseptica* can survive in the environment for up to two weeks under favorable conditions, particularly in cool, moist environments [3]. Regular cleaning and disinfection of shared water bowls, bedding, and kennel surfaces with products effective against Gram-negative bacteria can reduce environmental contamination. Ventilation is another critical factor. In boarding kennels and daycare facilities, adequate air exchange rates and reduced stocking density can lower the concentration of aerosolized pathogens. Facilities that implement these measures alongside vaccination requirements typically report lower rates of respiratory disease outbreaks [6]. For owners of multiple dogs, isolating any dog that develops respiratory signs for at least 10 to 14 days can prevent household spread. Because *B. bronchiseptica* can be shed for several weeks after clinical recovery, particularly in unvaccinated dogs, isolation should continue until the cough has fully resolved [5]. Owners should also avoid sharing toys, bedding, and food bowls between affected and unaffected dogs. ## Prognosis for vaccinated versus unvaccinated dogs The prognosis for dogs that develop CIRDC is generally excellent, with most dogs recovering fully within 7 to 14 days without specific treatment [5]. However, the prognosis differs between vaccinated and unvaccinated populations in several important ways. Vaccinated dogs that develop breakthrough infections typically experience milder clinical signs, shorter duration of illness, and lower risk of complications such as bronchopneumonia [8]. They are also less likely to require veterinary intervention beyond supportive care. In contrast, unvaccinated dogs, particularly those in high-risk categories such as puppies, seniors, and brachycephalic breeds, are at increased risk for severe disease, prolonged recovery, and secondary bacterial pneumonia. For dogs that develop bronchopneumonia, the prognosis becomes more guarded. These dogs require intensive veterinary care, including hospitalization, intravenous fluids, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and sometimes oxygen therapy. Mortality rates for bacterial pneumonia in dogs vary depending on the underlying cause and the patient's immune status, but prompt recognition and treatment significantly improve outcomes [5]. ## Special-population considerations ### Puppies Puppies represent a unique challenge for Bordetella vaccination. Their immune systems are immature, and maternal antibodies may interfere with vaccine response, particularly for the injectable formulation [2]. The intranasal and oral vaccines are less affected by maternal antibody interference because they stimulate local mucosal immunity directly. For this reason, many clinicians prefer the intranasal or oral route for puppies, even though the minimum age for vaccination is 6 to 8 weeks for all formulations. Puppies that attend socialization classes or puppy daycare should be vaccinated at least one week before their first exposure to ensure partial protection is present. Owners should be counseled that while vaccination reduces risk, it does not eliminate it, and puppies should still be monitored closely for signs of respiratory disease. ### Senior dogs Senior dogs may have waning immune function, making them more susceptible to severe CIRDC. However, they may also be more prone to adverse effects from vaccination. A careful risk-benefit assessment is essential. For senior dogs with concurrent cardiac or respiratory disease, vaccination is generally recommended if they have any exposure risk, as the consequences of infection outweigh the low risk of vaccine complications [5]. ### Brachycephalic breeds Brachycephalic breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and French Bulldogs are at increased risk for severe respiratory disease due to their anatomical abnormalities. These dogs often have compromised mucociliary clearance and reduced ability to clear respiratory secretions. Vaccination is strongly recommended for brachycephalic dogs that have any exposure to other dogs, even if that exposure is infrequent [5]. The intranasal vaccine should be used with caution in these breeds, as the transient respiratory signs it can cause may be more pronounced. ### Immunocompromised dogs Dogs receiving immunosuppressive therapy, such as high-dose glucocorticoids, cyclosporine, or chemotherapy agents, should generally not receive modified-live vaccines [9]. For these patients, the injectable (killed) vaccine is the safer option if vaccination is deemed necessary. However, the immune response to killed vaccines may be suboptimal in immunocompromised individuals, and the clinician should weigh the potential benefits against the likelihood of inadequate protection. ### Pregnant and lactating bitches Vaccination of pregnant or lactating bitches is generally avoided unless the risk of exposure is very high. The modified-live intranasal and oral vaccines are contraindicated during pregnancy due to theoretical risks to the developing fetuses [2]. The injectable killed vaccine may be used in pregnant bitches if the benefit clearly outweighs the risk, but this decision should be made on a case-by-case basis with veterinary guidance. ## Frequently asked questions ### 1. Does my dog need the Bordetella vaccine every year? Not all dogs need an annual Bordetella vaccine. The decision depends on your dog's lifestyle and exposure risk. Dogs that regularly attend boarding kennels, daycare, dog parks, or grooming salons should receive the vaccine every 6 to 12 months. Dogs with minimal contact with other dogs may not need it at all. Consult your veterinarian to determine the appropriate schedule for your dog. ### 2. Can the Bordetella vaccine cause kennel cough? The modified-live intranasal and oral vaccines can cause mild, transient respiratory signs such as sneezing or a soft cough for a few days after administration. This is not true kennel cough but a normal immune response to the vaccine. The injectable vaccine does not cause respiratory signs. In very rare cases, the modified-live vaccine could cause disease in immunocompromised dogs, but this is not typical. ### 3. How long after the Bordetella vaccine is my dog protected? For the intranasal and oral vaccines, protection begins within 72 hours. For the injectable vaccine, it takes 7 to 14 days for full protection to develop. This is why the intranasal or oral route is preferred when a dog needs rapid coverage before boarding or travel. ### 4. Is the Bordetella vaccine required for boarding? Many boarding kennels, daycare facilities, and grooming salons require proof of Bordetella vaccination. The requirement is usually for a vaccine given within the past 6 to 12 months. Always check with the facility for their specific requirements, as some may accept a vaccine given up to 12 months prior, while others require a booster every 6 months. ### 5. What are the side effects of the Bordetella vaccine in dogs? Common side effects include mild lethargy, decreased appetite, and injection site soreness for the injectable form. For the intranasal form, sneezing, mild nasal discharge, or a soft cough may occur. For the oral form, mild salivation or gagging is possible. These signs usually resolve within 24 to 48 hours. Serious side effects, such as allergic reactions, are rare. ### 6. Can my dog get kennel cough even if vaccinated? Yes, a vaccinated dog can still develop kennel cough, but the illness is typically milder and shorter in duration. The vaccine does not protect against all the pathogens that cause CIRDC, such as canine influenza virus, canine adenovirus type 2, or *Mycoplasma* species. Additionally, immunity can wane over time, and breakthrough infections can occur under high infectious pressure. ### 7. What is the difference between the intranasal and injectable Bordetella vaccine? The intranasal vaccine contains modified-live bacteria and stimulates local mucosal immunity in the upper airways, providing faster protection (within 72 hours). The injectable vaccine contains killed bacteria and provides systemic immunity, but it takes longer to become effective (7 to 14 days) and is less effective at preventing colonisation of the upper respiratory tract. The intranasal vaccine is generally preferred for dogs at high risk of exposure. ### 8. At what age can a puppy get the Bordetella vaccine? Puppies can receive the Bordetella vaccine as early as 6 to 8 weeks of age. For intranasal and oral vaccines, a single dose is often sufficient for primary immunisation, but some protocols recommend a booster 2 to 4 weeks later. The injectable vaccine requires two doses given 2 to 4 weeks apart for primary immunisation. Always follow your veterinarian's recommended schedule. ## Related veterinary guides - [Canine parvovirus vaccine for dogs](https://www.zubairkhalid.com/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/preventive-care/canine-parvovirus-vaccine-dog) - [Canine distemper vaccine for dogs](https://www.zubairkhalid.com/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/preventive-care/canine-distemper-vaccine-dog) - [Rabies vaccine for dogs](https://www.zubairkhalid.com/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/preventive-care/rabies-vaccine-dog) - [Leptospirosis vaccine for dogs](https://www.zubairkhalid.com/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/preventive-care/leptospirosis-vaccine-dog) - [Canine influenza vaccine for dogs](https://www.zubairkhalid.com/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/preventive-care/canine-influenza-vaccine-dog) - [Kennel cough in dogs: causes, signs, and treatment](https://www.zubairkhalid.com/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/respiratory/kennel-cough-dog) ## Related Articles - [Dog Licking Paws After Vaccine](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/preventive-care/dog-licking-paws-after-vaccine) - [Dog Vaccine Schedule Puppy](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/preventive-care/dog-vaccine-schedule-puppy) - [Dog Vaccine Schedule](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/preventive-care/dog-vaccine-schedule) ## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides * [Dog Allergic Reaction: Comprehensive Veterinary Reference Guide](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/preventive-care/dog-allergic-reaction) * [Puppy Socialization and Preventive Behavior: Early Training and Handling](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/preventive-care/puppy-socialization-preventive-behavior) * [Dog Boarding 101: How to Choose the Best Facility for Your Pet](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/preventive-care/dog-boarding-guide)