What Is Dog Collapsed Trachea? How To Identify And Manage It

If you have a dog, understanding the risk of a dog collapsed trachea is vital, as they are more than just pets but truly become ‘man’s best friend’ and an integral part of the family.

Recognizing the signs of this potentially fatal issue is crucial for their well-being.

Continue reading to understand what a collapsed trachea in dogs means, how to identify its symptoms, and the steps to take if your dog exhibits this condition.

What does a collapsing trachea entail?

Collapsing trachea is a critical health issue impacting numerous dogs annually. While it’s more common in older, smaller breeds like Pomeranians, Terriers, and Pugs, it can affect any dog, regardless of their size or age.

The trachea, or windpipe, depends on flexible cartilage rings to stay open for airflow. If these rings weaken, the trachea can collapse during inhalation.

At its initial stage, known as grade 1, it presents as a bothersome discomfort. However, without proper treatment, the condition can advance to grade 4, severely hindering or completely obstructing breathing.

Origins of dog collapsed trachea

The exact cause of dog collapsed trachea often remains a mystery, though several theories exist.

It’s commonly thought to be an inherited issue, with the dog potentially born with weaker tracheal cartilage. This risk is heightened in smaller breeds due to genetic factors.

Alternatively, factors like an injury, health conditions such as heart disease, tracheal tumors, or even obesity might contribute.

Being a progressive disorder, collapsing trachea typically doesn’t show symptoms until the dog reaches around 6-7 years of age.

Indications of collapsing trachea

A key indicator of dog collapsed trachea is persistent coughing episodes that subside on their own after a few minutes. The cough in dogs with tracheal collapse is notably dry and often likened to the sound of a goose honking.

• Additional symptoms to be aware of include:
• Shortness of breath or wheezing
• Reduced activity levels
• Accelerated breathing or panting
• Gums turning a blue shade
• Collapse or fainting
• Choking or gagging due to coughing

The symptoms of collapsing trachea can intensify at night, during periods of excitement, or right after eating or drinking.

Humid conditions, exposure to smoke, and pressure on the neck from collars can also lead to coughing spells.

In cases of total tracheal obstruction, dogs may show severe pain symptoms.

They might be agitated, have swallowing difficulties, breathe rapidly, or exhibit overall signs of respiratory distress. Immediate medical intervention is critical if any of these symptoms are observed.

Is treatment possible for collapsed trachea?

While there isn’t a definitive cure for collapsing trachea in dogs, various treatments exist to alleviate discomfort and halt its progression.

Here are some prevalent methods for managing collapsing trachea in dogs:

Cough suppressants usage

For dogs with collapsing trachea, cough suppressants can be beneficial as they help reduce inflammation and swelling, thereby decelerating the disease’s advancement. The most commonly used cough suppressant is an antihistamine like Benadryl.

Additionally, medications such as corticosteroids and bronchodilators can aid in managing tracheal collapse in dogs.

However, these treatments must be administered cautiously, as they can sometimes increase airway resistance and cause breathing difficulties.

It’s important not to give any cough suppressant to your dog without first consulting a veterinarian.

Bronchodilator treatments

Bronchodilators, commonly known as beta-2 agonists, are frequently prescribed for dogs experiencing tracheal collapse. These medications work by relaxing the muscles in the air passages, facilitating easier breathing for the dog.

The effectiveness of bronchodilators varies; some dogs may show improvement immediately, while others might require several weeks or months of treatment to notice benefits.

If you’re uncertain whether your dog is dealing with tracheal collapse, consulting your veterinarian is advisable. They can diagnose the condition based on the symptoms your dog is displaying.

Corticosteroid treatment

Corticosteroids are a category of anti-inflammatory drugs known for reducing swelling and inflammation.

These drugs are sometimes used in treating certain forms of tracheal collapse in dogs, including those caused by trauma, severe lung conditions, or other factors.

While corticosteroid injections may be effective in some instances, they are not universally successful for all types of tracheal collapse. For dogs with tracheal collapse due to chronic lung disease, alternative treatments may be more appropriate.

Your veterinarian can provide detailed information about the advantages and drawbacks of using corticosteroids for treating tracheal collapse in dogs.

It’s crucial to understand that corticosteroids carry potential risks and side effects, making it essential to collaborate closely with your vet to decide the most suitable treatment plan for your dog.

Sedative use

In cases where dogs with tracheal collapse get excessively excited, their condition can worsen. Administering sedatives can calm your dog and relax the muscles in their air passages, improving their ability to breathe.

Guidance for assisting dogs with collapsing trachea

Managing a dog collapsed trachea involves more than just veterinary visits; there are additional steps you can take to improve their comfort.

Ensure your dog is evaluated by a vet to confirm a diagnosis of collapsed trachea. It’s vital to distinguish it from other conditions like heart disease that may display similar symptoms. Immediate veterinary attention is necessary if your dog shows any breathing difficulties.

If your dog uses a collar, consider switching to a tactical dog harness. Collars can exert pressure on the trachea, exacerbating breathing issues.

Keep your dog away from cigarette smoke and other airborne irritants that can worsen tracheal collapse symptoms.

Regularly change your home’s air filters. This not only eases symptoms but also benefits family members with allergies.

Consult your vet about your dog’s weight to ensure it’s within a healthy range. Obesity can intensify tracheal collapse symptoms, so weight loss could facilitate easier breathing.

Assisting your dog in weight loss

Obesity can be a contributing factor to collapsing trachea in dogs. The most effective method for helping your dog shed pounds is through regular exercise.

Physical activity not only burns calories but also helps in regulating your dog’s appetite, making it an excellent strategy for weight loss.

If you’re short on time for walks, there are alternative ways to keep your dog active. Engaging in a game of fetch can expend as many calories as a walk.

You can also encourage exercise at home by setting up an agility course or scattering tennis balls in the yard.

There are various weight-loss diets suitable for dogs, depending on their specific needs and age. Always consult your vet before initiating any diet plan for your dog, as their nutritional needs differ from humans.

It’s crucial to feed your dog a balanced diet that fulfills their nutritional requirements. Overfeeding or offering treats high in sugar and fat can result in obesity and health issues like diabetes.

Manage your dog’s tracheal collapse with tactical harness for dogs

We recognize that a diagnosis of dog collapsed trachea can be alarming, but there’s no reason for undue worry. Early detection is key in managing this condition effectively – and that’s where Tactical Harness for Dog can assist.

If you’ve noticed frequent coughing in your dog, or if you’re looking to conduct a regular health check to ensure your furry friend’s well-being, consider tactical harness for dogs for support.