Collapsing Trachea Dog Video: Causes, Treatment, and Lifestyle Changes

A collapsing trachea is a serious condition that affects many dogs, especially those with long necks and narrow tracheas. The trachea, or windpipe, is a vital part of a dog's respiratory system.

The condition occurs when the rings of cartilage that support the trachea weaken, causing the airway to collapse. This can lead to difficulty breathing, coughing, and even life-threatening emergencies.

Symptoms of a collapsing trachea can include wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing, especially after exercise or excitement. These symptoms can be distressing for both the dog and the owner.

Treatment for a collapsing trachea typically involves a combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgery.

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Collapsing trachea is a serious condition that affects countless dogs every year. It can happen to any dog, regardless of size or age.

The trachea, or windpipe, relies on flexible rings of cartilage to keep it open for the air to pass through. These rings become weakened, allowing the trachea to flatten whenever your dog inhales.

In the early stages of collapse, known as grade 1, this is an uncomfortable annoyance.

Collapsing trachea in dogs is a serious condition that requires immediate veterinary attention if your dog is experiencing breathing difficulties. The exact cause of a collapsing trachea is not entirely clear, but it's thought to be a combination of genetic, allergic, and nutritional factors.

The condition often affects middle-aged and older dogs, with toy breeds being particularly susceptible. Collapsing trachea can occur at any age, but it's most common in dogs over 5 years old.

Obesity can exacerbate the symptoms of collapsing trachea, making it harder for your dog to breathe. This is why maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for dogs with this condition.

There are several factors that can trigger a collapsing trachea, including:

Some breeds are more prone to collapsing trachea due to their genetic makeup, including Shih Tzu, Chihuahua, Pug, Maltese, Lhasa Apso, Pomeranian, Toy Poodle, and Yorkshire Terrier.

Collapsing trachea is a serious condition that affects countless dogs every year. It can happen to any dog regardless of size or age.

The trachea relies on flexible rings of cartilage to keep it open for the air to pass through. These rings become weakened, allowing the trachea to flatten whenever your dog inhales.

In the early stages of collapse, known as grade 1, this is an uncomfortable annoyance.

A tracheal collapse in dogs is usually diagnosed by clinical signs and imaging techniques. Your veterinarian will conduct a physical exam, examining the neck, which may make your dog start coughing.

A complete and detailed physical examination is necessary to rule out other illnesses or injuries. This will likely include body temperature, weight, height, reflexes, coat and skin condition, pupil reaction time, blood pressure, breath sounds, pulse, oxygen level, respirations, and abdominal palpations.

Diagnostic imaging, such as chest x-rays and ultrasound, are important in determining tracheal collapse because the veterinarian can see the tracheal damage.

Diagnosing tracheal collapse in dogs requires a thorough examination by a veterinary professional. Your vet will conduct a physical exam, examining the neck, which may make your dog start coughing.

A complete and detailed physical examination is essential to rule out other illnesses or injuries. This will likely include checking body temperature, weight, height, reflexes, coat and skin condition, pupil reaction time, blood pressure, breath sounds, pulse, oxygen level, respirations, and abdominal palpations.

Diagnostic imaging, such as chest x-rays and ultrasound, are crucial in determining tracheal collapse. Your vet should be able to see the tracheal damage through these imaging methods.

A tracheoscopy or endoscopy may be performed to determine the damage. These procedures involve inserting a flexible tube with a camera into the airway or windpipe to look at the damage.

Your vet may also use fluoroscopy, which is a real-time moving x-ray, to examine the trachea. This procedure is usually done under anesthesia to make it less stressful for your dog.

An echocardiograph (ECHO) and electrocardiograph (EKG) may also be done to ensure there is no underlying cardiac issue.

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A dog's tracheal collapse can be identified by a persistent and harsh cough, often described as a "goose-honk" sound. This cough is typically dry and can be triggered by excitement, stress, overexertion, heat, humidity, or pressure on the dog's neck.

Anytime a dog's trachea is compromised, it will result in coughing, making this the most common symptom of tracheal collapse in dogs.

A dog with tracheal collapse may also exhibit wheezing sounds when inhaling, and in more serious cases, difficulty breathing, which can lead to a lack of oxygen and potentially cause the dog to collapse.

If you notice your dog coughing, especially with a harsh and persistent sound, it's essential to take them to the vet immediately.

A dog's gums or tongue turning blue can be a sign of oxygen deprivation, which is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.

Other health conditions, such as heart disease, lung diseases, and obesity, can worsen the symptoms of tracheal collapse, making it crucial to rule out these conditions when diagnosing the issue.

A visit to the vet is essential for confirming a diagnosis of tracheal collapse and ruling out other ailments with similar symptoms.

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The clinical signs of a collapsed trachea are unmistakable. A chronic cough is the most common symptom, often described as dry and harsh, sounding like a "goose honk." This cough can become quite pronounced and is often worse during the daytime.

Coughing can be triggered by excitement, pressure on the trachea from a leash, or from drinking water or eating. Any of these factors can cause your dog to cough. A collapsed trachea can also lead to wheezing, a lack of energy, and fast breathing.

Here are the most common clinical signs of a collapsed trachea:

These symptoms can be mild or severe, depending on the amount of damage to the trachea. If you notice any of these signs, it's essential to seek veterinary care immediately.

Managing your dog's weight is a crucial part of treating tracheal collapse, as excess weight can put additional strain on the trachea.

Your veterinarian may recommend a combination of medications to relieve discomfort, including cough suppressants, anti-inflammatories, and bronchodilators.

Bronchodilators, also known as beta-2 agonists, work by relaxing the muscles in the airways, allowing for easier breathing.

Cortisone, cough suppressants, and anti-anxiety medications may also be prescribed to help manage symptoms.

If medical management is not effective, surgery may be considered to insert internal or external stents to support the trachea.

Here are some specific treatment options to discuss with your veterinarian:

If your dog's tracheal collapse is severe or doesn't respond to medical management, surgery may be an option. Your veterinarian will decide whether surgery is the best course of action, taking into account the location and size of the collapse.

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Surgery can be a complex and invasive procedure, but it can help stabilize the cartilage rings and support the blood supply to the area. A board-certified veterinary surgeon will insert a prosthetic ring or mesh stent into the trachea to help maintain its tubular structure.

The cost of surgery can range from $2,000 to $6,500, not including diagnostic testing, which can add a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Even if surgery is successful, medical management may still be necessary to help your dog's tracheal collapse.

Corticosteroids, such as canine corticosteroids, can be used to reduce swelling and inflammation in the trachea. However, they may not be effective for all types of tracheal collapse, and your veterinarian can explain the pros and cons of using them.

Here are some common medications used to manage tracheal collapse:

Your veterinarian may also recommend other treatments, such as adjusting your dog's exercise routine, reducing exposure to airway irritants, and using a dog harness instead of a collar. By working closely with your veterinarian, you can determine the best course of action for your dog's tracheal collapse.

Get your dog a harness, not a collar, to prevent putting pressure on their trachea when being walked. This simple change can make a big difference in your dog's comfort.

Avoid taking your dog for walks during excessive heat and humid conditions, as this can cause them to breathe more heavily and cough.

Excessive excitement, stress, and anxiety can also trigger coughing in dogs with collapsing trachea, so try to keep them calm and relaxed.

Avoid exposing your dog to irritants in the air, such as cigarette smoke, incense, or aerosol sprays, as these can irritate their airways and cause coughing.

When getting your dog groomed, inform the groomer about their collapsing trachea so they can use neck restraints or cage dryers. Request that they be hand-dried instead.

Deploying these management techniques can help slow down the progression of this condition and keep your dog comfortable.

It's essential to check with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog's care routine.

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I've seen many dogs suffer from collapsing trachea, but with the right treatment and care, they can live happy and healthy lives.

One such example is a dog named Max, who was diagnosed with a collapsing trachea at just two years old. He required regular exercise and a weight loss plan to alleviate his symptoms.

A key part of Max's recovery was learning to recognize the warning signs of a collapsing trachea, such as rapid breathing and coughing.

Dogs with collapsing trachea should avoid strenuous exercise, especially in hot or humid weather. This can help prevent further strain on the trachea.

According to the American Kennel Club, the breeds most prone to collapsing trachea include Pugs, Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers.