Tracheal collapse in dogs
The windpipe weakens and flattens, narrowing the airway. It causes a characteristic honking cough, wheezing and breathing difficulty, especially with excitement or exercise. It is most common in small and toy breeds and tends to worsen over time.
5 of the 155 breeds we track are commonly associated with Tracheal collapse, including Poodle, Yorkshire Terrier, Maltese, Pomeranian. Across these breeds median lifespans range from 11.8 to 14.0 years.
Tracheal collapse in dogs: quick facts
- Type
- respiratory condition
- Breeds affected
- 5 of the 155 breeds we track
- Severity (as scored)
- Standard hereditary condition
Plain-English definitions of these terms are on the glossary. On the Breed Health Score, Tracheal collapse is weighted as a standard hereditary condition within a breed's overall burden. This describes how our data weights the condition, not a diagnosis.
Breeds commonly associated with Tracheal collapse (5), ranked by health score
Related respiratory conditions
Products that may help
General care products for dogs prone to Tracheal collapse. Browse on Amazon → Ad
Note. Breed associations are compiled from RVC VetCompass / AKC / PDSA and are indicative, not a diagnosis or veterinary advice. Browse all conditions or the breed directory.