Tracheal Collapse

If your dog has a persistent, honking cough that sounds like a goose, it may be more than just allergies or excitement. One common cause (especially in small breed dogs) is a condition called tracheal collapse. Here’s what pet owners should know about this airway issue, how it’s diagnosed, and what treatment options are available.

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What Is Tracheal Collapse?

The trachea (also known as the windpipe) is a flexible tube made up of small cartilage rings that help keep the airway open as your dog breathes. While this does not happen to all dogs, it is possible for the cartilage rings to begin to weaken and flatten over time, causing the trachea to partially collapse when your dog inhales or exhales. This narrowing makes it difficult for air to pass through, leading to the characteristic “goose-honk” cough and episodes of respiratory distress.

Which Dogs Are at Risk?

Tracheal collapse most often affects toy and small breeds, including yorkies, pomeranians, chihuahuas, toy poodles, and shih tzus. While it’s more common in senior dogs, some pets show symptoms at a younger age, especially if they’re overweight, suffer from allergies, or live in spaces with lots of airway irritants such as pollen, dust, candles, smoke, etc.

Common Signs and Symptoms

The most common symptom is a dry, harsh cough, often triggered by excitement, pulling on the leash, or heat and humidity. Other signs may include:

• Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing

• Gagging or retching, especially after coughing

• Exercise intolerance

• Episodes of bluish gums (a sign of low oxygen)

If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an exam promptly, especially if your dog ever struggles to catch their breath! Any changes in the appearance of your pet’s tongue or gums (such as turning pale, purple, or blue/grey) require medical attention, including emergency care if the color does not return to normal (pink) within a short time-frame.

How Is It Diagnosed?

Your veterinarian will always start with a physical exam. Pets experiencing tracheal collapse may respond to their throat being touched with coughing. Diagnostic tools such as x-rays to evaluate the shape of the trachea and rule out any other conditions, or using a scope to evaluate the airway can confirm the diagnosis. These tests help determine how severe the collapse is and whether it involves the main airways or lungs.

Treatment Options

While tracheal collapse can’t be fully “cured,” it can be successfully managed with lifestyle adjustments and medical care. Cough suppressants can be prescribed by your veterinarian to reduce irritation from repeated coughing, as well as “bronchodilators” which can help open the airways to improve breathing. Anti-inflammatories can be administered to help with swelling, as well. If the tracheal collapse is partially related to obesity, a weight loss plan may be able to improve symptoms. The use of a leash and collar around your pet’s neck should always be avoided, opting for a chest harness instead.

Please note that while some of these types of medications are available over-the-counter for human adults or children, no medications should ever be given to your pet without direct instruction from your veterinarian. Not all medications safe for people are safe for pets. Administering human medications can result in serious medical emergencies or be fatal.

Can this be managed at home or prevented?

You can help your dog breathe easier by:

• Using a harness instead of a collar for walks - this avoids pressure around the throat!

• Keeping your pet’s weight within a healthy range

• Avoiding cigarette smoke, aerosols, fragrance diffusers/candles, etc.

• Managing excitement and stress

• Following your vet’s medication plan closely

With proper care, many dogs with tracheal collapse can live long, comfortable lives!

When to Call Your Vet

Anytime you notice any new or unusual symptoms in your pet, such as coughing, heavy breathing, changes in the color of their gums or tongue, exercise intolerance, or dry heaving/wretching without producing vomit, we recommend contacting your veterinary team to schedule an appointment. If your pet appears to be in respiratory distress or panic, we recommend heading to your nearest emergency animal hospital, especially if your pet’s gums appear to be turning purple, blue, or grey.

For questions or concerns please contact us at 972-347-6100.

Click here to schedule an appointment. https://connect.allydvm.com/practice/prosper_trail/appointment_request