The name kennel cough comes from the fact that dogs in kennels are particularly susceptible to infection when living with other dogs. Places such as dog training schools, dog parks, shows, animal shelters, and boarding kennels also pose an increased risk, as many animals come into contact with each other there. Kennel cough is extremely contagious and is no longer spread solely through droplet infection. The pathogens can also be transmitted from one dog to another via objects.
Kennel cough is a disease that causes inflammation of the nose, larynx, trachea, and bronchi. Affected dogs often experience discomfort because they expel infectious material when coughing or sneezing. This is usually caused by viruses. The incubation period is between 2 and 14 days, but rarely up to 30 days. Factors such as poor hygiene, stress, dietary indiscretions, worm infestations, or cold, wet weather can also promote the disease. The upper respiratory tract is primarily affected , which is why the disease is also known as canine influenza or infectious tracheobronchitis. Often, the damaged mucous membrane leads to a secondary bacterial infection. The most common pathogens include parainfluenza viruses and Bordetella bacteria.