Is Your Dog Coughing and Wheezing Frequently? It Might Be Tracheal Collapse

1. What is Tracheal Collapse?

Tracheal collapse occurs when the windpipe (trachea) becomes flattened due to abnormal cartilage rings or thickening of the tracheal lining. It’s commonly seen in middle-aged and older Yorkshire Terriers and many other toy and small dog breeds.

2. Main Symptoms

1. Coughing is the most common and early symptom, often sounding like a goose honking.

2. As the condition worsens, the dog may cough frequently when excited or after physical activity.

3. Decreased exercise tolerance, labored breathing, and possible vomiting when eating or drinking.

3. Grading of Tracheal Collapse

• Grade I: Tracheal diameter reduced by 25%.
• Grade II: Diameter reduced by 25%–50%.
• Grade III: Diameter reduced by 50%–75%.
• Grade IV: Diameter reduced by 75%–100%, with near-complete obstruction.

4. How is it Diagnosed?

• Basic physical examination
• Complete blood count
• Biochemical tests
• Ultrasound
• X-rays
• CT scan or MRI

5. Treatment Options

Medical Treatment:

Use of bronchodilators, cough suppressants, and antibiotics to relieve symptoms like coughing and wheezing, and to prevent infections.

Surgical Treatment:

For severe cases, procedures such as tracheal stent placement or tracheoplasty can help restore the normal structure of the trachea.

Dogs can’t speak—so their health depends on our close observation. If you notice signs of tracheal collapse, take your dog to the vet promptly.