Tracheal collapse causes chronic coughing and respiratory distress in small dog breeds. Management focuses on reducing triggers and improving breathing comfort.
Tracheal collapse causes chronic respiratory distress that profoundly affects quality of life. The characteristic coughing episodes are frightening for both dog and owner. Severely affected dogs may experience dyspnea (difficulty breathing) that leaves them anxious, unable to exercise, and vulnerable to life-threatening respiratory crises during heat, excitement, or stress. The welfare management of tracheal collapse requires a multi-pronged approach — eliminating airway pressure from collars, controlling weight, minimizing triggers like excitement and heat, and providing appropriate medical management. Dogs with severe tracheal collapse that experience frequent distressing episodes may benefit from surgical stenting, which can dramatically improve respiratory function and quality of life when performed by experienced specialists.