Tracheal Collapse in Dogs: Signs, Causes & How to Help

Tracheal Collapse in Dogs: Signs, Causes & How to Help

Tracheal collapse is a condition most commonly seen in small dog breeds, and while it can sound alarming, many dogs live happy, comfortable lives with the right management and *veterinary support.

As a professional dog walking and pet care service, we believe it’s important for owners to be informed — especially when it comes to recognising symptoms early and knowing when to seek help.

What is Tracheal Collapse?

The trachea (windpipe) is made up of small cartilage rings that help keep the airway open. In dogs with tracheal collapse, these rings weaken or flatten over time, causing the airway to narrow. This can make breathing more difficult, particularly during excitement, exercise, stress, or warm weather.

Common Signs of Tracheal Collapse

Symptoms can range from mild to more serious and may include:

• A distinctive “honking” cough

• Coughing when excited or pulling on the lead

• Gagging or retching

• Noisy breathing

• Reduced tolerance for exercise

• Episodes that worsen in warm conditions or stressful situations

If your dog shows any of these signs regularly, it’s important to speak with your *vet.

Which Dogs Are Most at Risk?

Tracheal collapse is most often seen in:

• Toy and small breeds (such as Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians, Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles)

• Middle-aged to older dogs

• Dogs that are overweight

• Dogs walked using collars rather than harnesses

That said, any dog showing breathing difficulties should always be assessed by a veterinary professional.

A Note on a Commonly Discussed Comfort Technique

Often calming techniques such as soft talking and gentle stroking is enough to resolve an episode. Some dog owners may hear about a technique where gently placing *fingers over a dog’s nostrils for a very brief moment can sometimes help interrupt a coughing episode associated with tracheal collapse. The idea behind this is that briefly encouraging the dog to breathe through the mouth may help slow and regulate airflow, which in some cases can help calm the episode.

It’s important to be very clear that this is not a treatment or a cure, and it will not be appropriate for every dog. Tracheal collapse is a complex medical condition that varies in severity, and what helps one dog may be unsuitable or even distressing for another.

⚠️ This technique should only ever be discussed with and approved by your vet before attempting it.

It should never be used on dogs who are panicking, struggling to breathe, showing blue or pale gums, collapsing, or worsening rapidly — these situations require immediate veterinary attention.

*If your dog is suspected of having tracheal collapse, your vet is the only person who can advise on safe management strategies, which may include medication, harness use instead of collars, weight management, environmental adjustments, and tailored guidance specific to your dog’s condition.

How Tracheal Collapse Is Commonly Managed

While there is no single cure, many dogs are successfully managed through:

• Veterinary-prescribed medication

• Using a well-fitted harness instead of a collar

• Maintaining a healthy weight

• Avoiding excessive excitement or overheating

• Keeping walks calm, steady, and appropriate to the dog’s tolerance

Your vet may also recommend lifestyle adjustments specific to your dog’s individual needs.

When to Seek Immediate Veterinary Help

Contact your vet urgently if your dog:

• Is struggling to breathe

• Has blue, grey, or pale gums

• Collapses or becomes unresponsive

• Experiences worsening or prolonged coughing episodes

These signs should never be ignored.

Our Approach at West London Walkers

At West London Walkers, your dog’s safety and wellbeing always come first. We tailor walks to each dog’s needs, avoid collars for dogs with airway sensitivity, and keep outings calm, local, and stress-free, especially for dogs with medical considerations.

If your dog has been diagnosed with tracheal collapse, we’re always happy to follow yours and your vet’s guidance and discuss any adjustments needed to keep them comfortable and safe while in our care.

*Always consult a vet for any pet medical conditions and primarily follow their advice, the information shared in our blog posts is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered a substitute for professional veterinary advice.

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