Tracheal Collapse in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms & Care

Tracheal collapse in dogs is a progressive condition where the rings of cartilage supporting the trachea, or windpipe, weaken and flatten. This causes the airway to narrow, leading to breathing difficulties. The trachea is essential as it carries air from the nose and mouth to the lungs, and its structure is held open by sturdy cartilage rings.

When these rings weaken, they can no longer maintain an open airway, resulting in partial or complete collapse of the trachea. This narrowing interferes with smooth airflow, causing symptoms that can range from mild coughing to severe respiratory distress.

What causes tracheal collapse in dogs?

While the exact cause remains unclear, tracheal collapse is often linked to a congenital, inherited defect. This genetic abnormality leads to weaker-than-normal cartilage rings that progressively deteriorate and fail to provide adequate support to the trachea.

Other contributing factors may include age-related cartilage degeneration (chondromalacia), obesity, respiratory infections, neck trauma, and exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke. Chronic respiratory conditions or heart disease can also worsen the condition.

Which dogs are most at risk?

Small and toy breeds are particularly prone to tracheal collapse. The Yorkshire Terrier is the most commonly affected breed, but it also affects breeds like Pomeranians, Toy Poodles, Chihuahuas, Maltese, and Pugs. Both male and female dogs are equally susceptible, with symptoms usually emerging in middle to older age, typically around six or seven years old.

Responsible dog ownership includes awareness of breed predispositions and choosing reputable breeders who screen for genetic health issues to reduce the risk of tracheal collapse in puppies. Find Yorkshire Terrier puppies from reputable breeders as a starting point for healthier choices.

Recognising the symptoms

The hallmark symptom is a characteristic "honking" cough, similar to a goose honk, caused by the dog trying to force air through a narrowed trachea. This cough often worsens with excitement, exercise, or when the dog is eating or drinking.

Additional symptoms may include reluctance to exercise, laboured breathing, wheezing sounds, and in severe cases, cyanosis—where the gums or tongue turn blue due to insufficient oxygen. Symptoms can intensify in hot weather or if the dog is overweight, as panting and excess weight increase airway pressure.

Diagnosis: How vets confirm tracheal collapse

If you notice these symptoms, taking your dog to the vet is essential. Your vet will consider the dog's breed, age, and cough type when suspecting tracheal collapse.

Diagnostic procedures may include X-rays or fluoroscopy to visualise the trachea during breathing. The most accurate method is tracheal endoscopy performed under general anaesthesia, allowing direct observation of the collapse and grading its severity from mild to severe.

Treatment and management strategies

Unfortunately, tracheal collapse has no cure, but with appropriate management, many dogs can enjoy a good quality of life. Treatment aims to reduce symptoms and improve breathing.

Medical management

• Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation within the airway.
• Cough suppressants to ease the cough reflex and prevent irritation.
• Bronchodilators to open airways and improve airflow.
• Weight management to reduce pressure on the trachea.
• Switching from neck collars to chest harnesses to avoid additional tracheal pressure.

These treatments often require lifelong administration, but over 70% of affected dogs show significant improvement.

Surgical options

If medical management is ineffective or the condition is severe, surgery may be considered. The most common operation involves placing polypropylene synthetic rings externally around the trachea to replace the function of the weakened cartilage rings. This surgery has a success rate between 75% and 85% but is expensive and usually limited to specialist referral clinics.

Not all dogs are suitable candidates, especially older dogs with other health concerns. Surgical intervention aims to restore airway patency and reduce breathing difficulties but does not fully eliminate coughing.

Ongoing care and lifestyle tips

Owners of dogs with tracheal collapse can support their pets by:

• Maintaining a healthy body weight through diet and controlled exercise.
• Using a chest harness instead of a collar to reduce neck pressure during walks.
• Minimising exposure to environmental irritants such as cigarette smoke and dust.
• Avoiding overheating by providing shade and fresh water during warm weather, as panting can exacerbate symptoms.
• Limiting overexertion and stressful situations.

Regular veterinary check-ups are important to monitor progression and adjust treatments as needed.

What to do if your dog shows signs of tracheal collapse?

Quick Answer: If your dog develops a persistent honking cough or difficulty breathing, consult your vet promptly for assessment and diagnosis of possible tracheal collapse.

Early veterinary intervention can help manage symptoms and improve your dog's comfort. Do not delay vet visits, especially if your dog shows severe coughing, laboured breathing, or cyanosis (blue gums or tongue), which can indicate an emergency. Your vet can provide tailored advice, prescribe appropriate medication, and discuss potential surgical options if needed.

Conclusion

Tracheal collapse is a chronic, progressive respiratory condition predominantly affecting small and toy breed dogs as they mature. Understanding the causes, recognising symptoms early, and managing the condition through medical treatment, lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, surgery, can help maintain your dog's quality of life.

Choosing reputable Yorkshire Terrier puppies or other small breeds from responsible breeders helps minimise inherited risks. Regular veterinary care and careful management are essential to support affected dogs living comfortably with this condition.