What it is
The windpipe is held open by a row of C-shaped rings of cartilage, closed at the back by a thin band of muscle. When the rings soften and lose their shape, they flatten and the band sags into the airway, so the windpipe narrows each time the dog breathes in or out. The irritation sets off coughing, and coughing irritates the airway further, feeding a vicious circle.
The weakness of the cartilage is thought to be partly inherited and is linked to small size and to age, with signs showing in middle-aged and older dogs. Excess weight, airway irritants and other breathing problems make it worse.
In daily life, small things spare the windpipe: a harness instead of a collar, a lean body, a smoke-free home, calm greetings and no hard exercise in hot or humid weather. Hot days and moments of excitement are when a dog with this condition needs the closest watching.
Signs you may notice
- Honking, goose-like cough
- Coughs when excited or pulling
- Coughs after eating or drinking
- Tires quickly on walks
- Noisy breathing
- Blue gums or tongue
You may hear a dry, loud cough that sounds like a goose honking, especially when the dog is excited, eating or drinking. If the dog struggles to breathe, the gums or tongue turn blue, or the dog collapses, it needs a vet immediately.
When to see a vet
Book a visit if your dog has a honking cough or tires more easily. If it is struggling to breathe, its gums or tongue turn blue or it collapses, it needs a vet immediately.
This is general information, not veterinary advice. For your own dog's health, tests and treatment, see a vet.