Tracheal Collapse in Dogs
The trachea (windpipe) is the tube connecting the throat to the lungs. It contains rings of cartilage that line the inside of the tracheal wall, maintaining the tube shape. In certain dogs, these rings lose their strength and rigidity, and the tube begins to collapse. This makes it more difficult for pets to move air in and out, and can range from a minor nuisance to life-threatening in severe cases.
Certain small-breed dogs are more prone to collapsing tracheas, such as Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Shih Tzu’s, Lhasa Apsos, Poodles, and Yorkies. Tracheal collapse generally occurs in middle-aged to older dogs (6-14 years), however it sometimes can occur in younger pets. The most common symptom is a persistent, dry cough that is often described as a “honk”. It may worsen at night, with excitement, or with pressure on the trachea from a collar.
There is no known medical cure for tracheal collapse, however symptoms can be controlled with cough suppressants. Surgical intervention can be indicated in very severe cases, in which a stent is placed along the trachea to open up the airways. Given the potential side effects (stent fracture, stent migration, bronchial collapse, infection, granulation tissue formation) this surgery is only recommended for pets with severe cases or whose symptoms are life threatening.
Along with breed and age, weight is also a major contributing factor to worsening collapsing trachea in dogs. Keeping your pet in good aerobic shape and at a healthy weight is vital for minimizing symptoms. Medication and lifestyle changes can make mild and moderate tracheal collapse less bothersome to the pet. Preventing over-excitement and using a harness rather than a collar is also advised. Avoid exposure to irritants such as tobacco smoke. While symptoms may worsen as pets age, many pets are happy living with mild to moderate tracheal collapse.
Certain small-breed dogs are more prone to collapsing tracheas, such as Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Shih Tzu’s, Lhasa Apsos, Poodles, and Yorkies. Tracheal collapse generally occurs in middle-aged to older dogs (6-14 years), however it sometimes can occur in younger pets. The most common symptom is a persistent, dry cough that is often described as a “honk”. It may worsen at night, with excitement, or with pressure on the trachea from a collar.
There is no known medical cure for tracheal collapse, however symptoms can be controlled with cough suppressants. Surgical intervention can be indicated in very severe cases, in which a stent is placed along the trachea to open up the airways. Given the potential side effects (stent fracture, stent migration, bronchial collapse, infection, granulation tissue formation) this surgery is only recommended for pets with severe cases or whose symptoms are life threatening.
Along with breed and age, weight is also a major contributing factor to worsening collapsing trachea in dogs. Keeping your pet in good aerobic shape and at a healthy weight is vital for minimizing symptoms. Medication and lifestyle changes can make mild and moderate tracheal collapse less bothersome to the pet. Preventing over-excitement and using a harness rather than a collar is also advised. Avoid exposure to irritants such as tobacco smoke. While symptoms may worsen as pets age, many pets are happy living with mild to moderate tracheal collapse.
