What is tracheal collapse?

The trachea, colloquially known as the windpipe, is the main airway that guides air to the lungs. Tracheal collapse therefore refers to the trachea caving in, collapsing onto itself. This occurs because the trachea’s cartilaginous rings are C shaped instead of circular, thereby flattening when the dog breathes.

Tracheal collapse is most common in small dog breeds and often worsens with age. The condition also worsens in obese/overweight dogs. The symptoms include an irritating cough particularly at exertion, or when the dog pulls the lead. Very hot or cold weather can induce coughing. Often dogs with tracheal collapse become out of breath more easily. Quite severe coughing fits can occur, resulting in the dog being unable to breathe. Coughing eventually takes place at rest with disease progression.

Brachycephalic dogs (flat faced dogs) have an increased risk of tracheal collapse. There is no cure, but there are some things you can do to help. The easiest and most important thing to do is to keep your dog lean. Avoid exercising your dog during extreme weather conditions. In severe cases surgery should be considered. 

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