New vaccine is launched to protect dogs against kennel cough

A new injectable vaccine to protect dogs aged 8 weeks and older against kennel cough (Bordetella bronchiseptica) is now available in the US. Vanguard Recombishield is the only canine vaccine with pertactin protein for an optimal immune response to B bronchiseptica infection, according to Zoetis.¹

Vanguard Recombishield was licensed by the USDA on March 4, 2025. It uses recombinant technology that offers minimal pain, swelling, stinging and sensitivity for the patient receiving the injection, according to Zoetis.¹

The new injectable vaccine is intended to replace Zoetis’ Vanguard B Injectable product for protecting dogs against kennel cough. The Vanguard B Injectable vaccine is based on a nonadjuvanted antigenic extract, and can continue to be used by veterinarians with remaining inventory.¹

According to Zoetis, most dogs infected with B bronchiseptica are contagious prior to symptoms showing, which can lead to outbreaks, and the disease is spread year-round. Signs of B bronchiseptica in dogs include sneezing, watery eyes, nasal discharge, and a harsh or honking cough.^1,2 Infection incubation is 3 to 10 days. However, an infected dog can shed bacteria for 3 to 4 months after recovery.²

“Every dog is different, and intranasal or oral delivery may not be the right fit for every dog to protect against kennel cough,” Tara Bidgood, DVM, PhD, DACVCP, vice president, head of US veterinary professional services and medical affairs, pet care at Zoetis, said in a news release.¹ “However, given how quickly Bordetella can spread, it is important to ensure dogs are fully protected from this potentially serious bacterial infection.”

According to one study, Vanguard Recombishield reduced coughing duration in dogs by 80% and nasal shedding duration by 23%. Another study, which enrolled more than 600 dogs, had minimal adverse reactions reported, with less than 1% injection site pain and vocalization at administration, less than 1% biting or scratching at the injection site. Other immediate adverse reactions were observed in fewer than 0.1% of cases, according to data on file with Zoetis.¹

Although B bronchiseptica immunization is not among the “core vaccines” recommended by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), protection against this bacterium may be essential to patients based on their lifestyles and risks. According to AAHA, vaccines should be administered when they are not only overdue but also when the need is unknown, considering that the benefits of vaccination outweigh risks in most cases.³

Vanguard Recombishield can be purchased through Zoetis' preferred US distributor partner or through Vetcove. Veterinarians and pet health professionals can also order the product directly from Zoetis.¹

“At Zoetis, we are committed to innovating to advance pet health. With Vanguard Recombishield, we are proud to be the only company to offer veterinarians and pet parents a full suite of innovative administration options, ensuring every pet receives optimized protection regardless of their specific needs or temperament,” Bidgood said in the release.

Another product is the intranasal formulation of Vanguard B that was launched earlier this year, following the USDA’s approval in 2024. The intranasal product is administered using a single nostril. It provides a smaller dose than the oral delivery and is indicated for dogs as young as 3 weeks of age.²

References

1. Zoetis launches Vanguard Recombishield injectable vaccine to provide optimized Bordetella protection for dogs. News release. Zoetis. November 10, 2025. Accessed November 11, 2025. https://www.zoetisus.com/news-and-media/zoetis-launches-vanguard-recombishield-injectable-vaccine/
2. Crossley KC. New formulation for kennel cough vaccine is available. dvm360. March 26, 2025. Accessed November 11, 2025. https://www.dvm360.com/view/new-formulation-for-kennel-cough-vaccine-is-available
3. 2022 AAHA Canine Vaccination Guidelines: Guideline at-a-Glance. American Animal Hospital Association. 2022. Accessed November 11, 2025. https://www.aaha.org/resources/2022-aaha-canine-vaccination-guidelines/