Tracheal collapse in dogs is a long-term progressive disease. Many affected dogs will make a dry, goose-like honking cough sound and can experience different degrees of breathing difficulty.

Tracheal collapse is a condition where the windpipe rings weaken and begin to flatten, which reduces airflow. It is most commonly seen in middle-aged to older small-breed dogs, although it can be seen in larger breeds of dogs as well. This condition usually requires lifelong care and may worsen with time.

What is tracheal collapse in dogs?

• The trachea (windpipe) is the tube that carries air from the nose and mouth through the neck and into the lungs.

• The trachea is strengthened by small C-shaped rings of cartilage to help it maintain its shape and stay open.

• If the cartilage rings become weakened and begin to flatten, the diameter of the trachea gradually decreases.

• Its exact cause is not clear but it is believed to be multifactorial, including:

  • Genetic

  • Nutritional

  • Allergic triggers

What are the symptoms of tracheal collapse in dogs?

You might notice some or all of the following signs:

• Harsh, dry, “goose-honking” cough (made worse when pulling on the lead)

• Wheezy noise when inhaling

• Tiredness with little exercise

• Difficulty breathing

• Struggle to catch their breath

• Turning blue when excited or coughing

• Collapse

• Signs that worsen during activity or excitement

• Signs that worsen with exposure to irritants, such as dust, smoke, allergens

Are some dogs at higher risk of tracheal collapse than others?

Dogs with this condition are often middle-aged or older, but it can also affect young dogs. Small breed dogs are more susceptible; this includes:

• Chihuahua

• Maltese

• Pomeranian

• Poodle

• Pug

• Yorkshire terrier

Other risk factors include:

• Dogs that are overweight

• Or those who live in a household with smokers

How is tracheal collapse diagnosed in dogs?

Your vet will do a hands-on exam and take all the signs into account. They may hear an abnormal sound with the stethoscope coming from the neck or chest. Your dog may cough when the vet feels their neck. Further investigation is usually necessary:

• Chest x-rays (thoracic radiographs): The collapsing of the trachea is not always evident on radiographs, but this form of imaging is an important starting point, as it helps your vet assess the heart and lungs for changes that could trigger coughing.

• Fluoroscopy: This advanced type of imaging is like a radiographic video and allows your vet to assess the size of your pet’s trachea and how it changes during breathing.

• Endoscopic airway evaluation & sampling: This technique involves passing a small camera on a flexible tube (bronchoscope) through the mouth and into the trachea to examine the trachea and airways. During this procedure, tissue samples and secretions may be collected for additional testing to look for evidence of infectious or inflammatory disease.

Vet treatment for dogs with tracheal collapse

There is no cure for tracheal collapse in dogs, but there are different treatments to provide better comfort and alleviate the symptoms. Most dogs will continue to cough throughout their lives, even with good treatment control. Your vet might recommend one or more of the following:

• Cough suppressants

• Anti-inflammatory medications (such as steroids)

• Antianxiety medications

• Bronchodilators

This condition is progressive. Surgical treatment may be advised if your dog does not respond to medication or home care treatment. Surgery will provide structural support for the trachea:

• Ring placement on the outside of the trachea

• Stent placement inside the trachea

These advanced surgeries are performed by specialist vets. Medication and home care may work for up to 70% of dogs, particularly those that have minor tracheal collapse. Even after surgery, both medication and home care will need to be continued for life.

Home care for a dog with tracheal collapse

Home care is vital for the treatment of this problem.

Take some actions to help improve your dog’s quality of life:

• Use a harness rather than a neck collar to reduce pressure on the trachea.

• Use a humidifier during dry months.

• Use an air filter.

• Reduce airborne allergens or irritants, such as smoke, perfumes, and air fresheners.

• Address exercise modification: these dogs should undergo gentle exercise to prevent breathing difficulties, but still maintaining a healthy lifestyle and weight.

• Avoid exercising in hot weather.

• Help your dog maintain a healthy weight with appropriate diet management.

Talk to a vet to help you create a healthy weight management plan with good exercise strategies that suit your dog’s needs.

How to prevent tracheal collapse in dogs

It’s not possible to prevent this disease. But you can try to prevent or reduce its signs by following the home care advice above.

When do you need to call a vet if your dog has tracheal collapse

If your dog was diagnosed with tracheal collapse, contact your local vet practice if they:

• Do not improve despite treatment

• Are rapid open-mouth breathing

• Are gasping for air

• Are wheezing

• Have blue or grey gums (cyanosis)

• Are collapsed

Joii can help:

• If you need help and advice on home care treatment.

• If your dog had surgery and you need tips to keep them calm and rested at home.

• If you need help giving medication.