Tracheal Collapses in Canines: A Veterinary Perspective by Catherine Barnette, DVM, Reviewed by Brittany Kleszynski, DVM on 03/28/2025 and Published on 03/29/2023. Shared on Facebook, Twitter, Email, and Print.
In the canine world, tracheal collapse is a common issue that causes coughing fits, particularly in our smaller breeds. Small pups like Yorkies, Poms, Shih Tzus, Chihuahuas, Lhasa Apsos, and Toy Poodles are more susceptible to this health hitch due to their peculiar anatomy. Here's a breakdown of what tracheal collapse is, the indicators that might suggest your pup is struggling, and the ways we can tackle this condition.
First things first, let's get into the nitty-gritty of what tracheal collapse actually is. The trachea, known as the windpipe, is a tube that funnels air from your dog's nose and mouth to their lungs. It's held open by sturdy rings of cartilage, which support the trachea like tent poles. Now, with tracheal collapse, these rings weaken, making it harder for your pup to breathe. To make matters worse, the membrane connecting those cartilage rings might sag or bulge, adding to the airflow obstruction.
Here are some signals to watch out for if you think your furry friend might be suffering from tracheal collapse:
- Coughing fits that flare during excitement, barking, exercising, or panting.
- Coughing spells when eating or drinking, or when pressure is applied to the throat, like while pulling on a collar.
- Shortness of breath, increased respiratory effort, noisy breathing, and exercise intolerance.
- Acute episodes of respiratory distress in extreme cases.
To help veterinarians diagnose tracheal collapse, they'll carry out a thorough check-up, listening closely to your pup's heart and lungs, and putting gentle pressure on the trachea to rile up any persistent cough. They might also run some screening tests to rule out other causes of illness, such as heartworm disease. X-rays are usually the next step, as they can clearly reveal the trachea narrowing that comes with tracheal collapse and help rule out other heart and lung concerns.
In terms of treatment, managing (not curing) the condition is usually the objective, with medication playing a crucial role. Cough suppressants, corticosteroids, bronchodilators, and even sedatives might be prescribed to alleviate symptoms. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary for oxygen therapy and injectable meds to aid respiration. Surgical intervention is an option for the worst cases, though specialists are needed for this tactic, as it involves placing a stent to help keep the trachea open and airflow smooth.
On the lifestyle front, there are steps you can take at home to help manage your pup's symptoms:
- Keep your dog at a healthy weight. Avoiding obesity will reduce the strain on the trachea.
- Use a harness instead of a neck collar when walking your pup. Collars can put pressure on the trachea, contributing to coughing. A harness spreads the pressure across the chest instead.
- Limit exposure to smoke and other airborne irritants, like strong cleaners or scented candles, as they can trigger coughing episodes.
By maintaining a healthy lifestyle and sticking to treatments, many dogs with mild tracheal collapse live fulfilling lives. And, contrary to popular belief, there is no foolproof method to prevent tracheal collapse in dogs, but keeping them lean and minimizing neck collar use can help reduce the risk. Regular veterinary visits are essential for early detection and management of this progressive condition.
Mental health is an important aspect of overall wellness, and in the same vein, understanding tracheal collapse in our pets can significantly contribute to their health-and-wellness. Just as a strong heart and lungs are essential for physical well-being, a strong, well-supported trachea is crucial for a dog's respiratory system. In the realm of science, research continues to explore potential links between mental health and physical health conditions like tracheal collapse, seeking effective treatments and preventive measures for our canine friends.
