Collapsing Trachea

What is it?

The trachea, or windpipe, is held open by C-shaped cartilage rings with a thin membrane completing the circle. If the rings lose stiffness or the membrane sags, the airway flattens during breathing, making it harder for air to reach the lungs. It is most common in middle-aged to senior dogs (about 4 to 14 years) and in Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Shih Tzus, Lhasa apsos, toy poodles, and Yorkshire terriers, though any dog can be affected.

What signs should I watch for?

The typical sign is a persistent, dry, harsh cough often described as a goose honk. It may worsen at night, with excitement, in hot or humid weather, right after eating or drinking, or when a collar presses on the neck.

How is it diagnosed and treated?

Your veterinarian may suspect it if gentle pressure on the windpipe triggers coughing. X-rays, fluoroscopy (moving X-rays), or endoscopy confirm it, and other causes of cough, such as heart failure, must be ruled out. Treatment may include cough suppressants, anti-inflammatories, airway-opening drugs, and other medications; complex surgery or implants by a board-certified surgeon are options for some dogs. Liver function should be monitored, since liver disease often occurs alongside it.

Can it be prevented, and what's the outlook?

• Keep your dog at a healthy weight, use a harness instead of a collar, prevent overexcitement, and avoid irritants such as tobacco smoke.
• The condition is progressive and most dogs keep some cough for life, but many are managed well; outlook depends on how your dog responds to treatment.