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Caring For Your Dog With a Collapsing Trachea

Dogs > Respiratory > Caring For Your Dog With a Collapsing Trachea

Collapsing trachea is a common condition for a toy or small breed dog-- mainly Pomeranians, Maltese, Toy Poodles, Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers-- that causes difficulty breathing. A collapsed trachea occurs if the cartilage that makes up the dog's windpipe becomes weak and doesn't stay open to allow air to pass through completely.

How to Relieve Symptoms

Medication to open airways
Surgery
Cough suppressants
Change in diet to lose weight
Use a harness instead of a collar
Limit strenuous exercise
Keep your pet out of heat and humidity
Steroids, but these aren't healthy in the long run and are generally used only in severe cases

Preventing A Collapsed Trachea

Prevent allergies, kennel cough or other respiratory infections by getting your dog vaccinated and keeping him away from sick or unknown dogs
Eliminate cigarette smoke and other pollutants with an air filter
Collapsing trachea is often a genetic problem, so check with breeders before purchasing a dog
Feed your dog a balanced diet to maintain healthy cartilage in the trachea

also see Understanding Dog Respiratory Problems

also see Treating Dog Snoring Through Diet

also see Your Coughing Dog

also see Dog Sneezing and Nasal Discharge: When is it Serious?