Natural Remedies for Collapsed Trachea in Dogs with Dr. Judy Morgan (2024)

Natural Remedies for Collapsed Trachea in Dogs with Dr. Judy Morgan (1)

By Angela Ardolino

Updated on May 10, 2022

Collapsed trachea is an extremely common condition for certain dog breeds, but many dog parents don’t understand what it is or how to treat it. In this episode, Dr. Judy Morgan explains the causes and symptoms behind collapsed trachea and collapsed bronchus in dogs. She also shares some valuable tips for reducing your dog’s symptoms with environmental changes, diet, and other holistic methods. Dr. Morgan is an integrative veterinarian with over 37 years of experience, so she has so much great insight to share on this topic.

Episode Recap:

  • What causes collapsed trachea in dogs? (1:31)
  • Pollen and other allergies can make this issue worse (3:50)
  • Collapsed trachea will continue to get worse over time if untreated (5:22)
  • Certain breeds like Yorkies and Maltese are especially prone to collapsed trachea (8:04)
  • Do collars make collapsed trachea worse? (8:48)
  • What are the symptoms of collapsed trachea, and how is it diagnosed? (9:23)
  • How conventional vets treat collapsed trachea (14:00)
  • How to treat collapsed trachea holistically (17:20)
  • Electro acupuncture can help stimulate the collapsing muscles (20:39)
  • Great air quality is especially important for dogs with collapsed trachea (22:28)
  • How to connect with Dr. Morgan (26:47)

What is a Collapsed Trachea?

Collapsed Trachea is a degenerative respiratory condition in dogs that is characterized by a goose-like honking cough. Small breed dogs, such as Yorkshire Terriers, Maltese, Mini-Schnauzers, and small terrier breeds are the most commonly affected, although it can afflict dogs of all shapes and sizes.

Tracheal Collapse refers to the gradual collapse of the trachea, which connects the nasal passages to the lungs. The trachea, sometimes known as the “windpipe,” is a tube that links the throat and lungs. It is supported by cartilage rings that help hold it open to enable air to flow freely from the mouth to the lungs and back again.

The structural rings of the trachea are closer to a C-shape, rather than perfect circles. A tracheal collapse occurs when these rings become increasingly weak and can no longer fully support the airway. The soft tissue starts to collapse, eventually blocking the trachea and, with it, the passage of air.

So it narrows the airway, and when they cough, they’re forcibly trying to open that up, to get the air back out. So it is a noisy event. And it definitely has triggers, stress, irritants to the airway, excitement. So these dogs have to live a modified lifestyle, and we have to be really careful what we do with their environment so that we don’t set things off.” – Dr. Judy Morgan

Symptoms of a Collapsed Trachea in Dogs

Symptoms of a Collapsed Trachea in dogs include a honking, goose-like cough, labored or rapid breathing, blue or purple gums from lack of oxygen in the bloodstream, and fainting. These symptoms can be worsened by stress, excitement, exercise, allergies, obesity, heat, smoke, eating or drinking, or any external pressure on the throat.

Additionally, when a dog experiences an episode and is struggling for breath, this can cause them a lot of stress and anxiety. This extra stress in turn worsens the symptoms of collapsed trachea, leading to further progression of this degenerative condition. Therefore managing and alleviating a dog’s anxiety and stress is vital.

One of the big things is controlling that anxiety. ..They go into panic mode, and then that panic mode makes it even worse. So it’s really important that we don’t allow these animals to get into that cascade of anxiety.” – Dr. Judy Morgan

Conventional Treatments for Collapsed Trachea

Conventional treatments for dogs with a collapsed trachea include several pharmaceuticals, to manage all the symptoms of a tracheal collapse. This includes cough suppressants, bronchodilators, sedatives, opioids, antibiotics, and anabolic steroids. Unfortunately, along with the possible side effects of each of these medications, these drugs also have the potential to interact with each other, as well as any other medications your pet may be on.

Unfortunately, all of the traditional medications that we would use would have some side effects that we would then have to balance out. And so you can end up in that cascade of ‘I’m giving this drug to solve this problem. But now I need this drug to solve the side effects of that. And now I need this drug because..’–it’s just a cascade.” – Dr. Judy Morgan

Natural Remedies for Collapsed Trachea in Dogs

While collapsed trachea currently has no cure, we can try to slow the progression of the condition, and keep our dogs comfortable. This includes avoiding and alleviating unnecessary stress and anxiety, not exposing them to a lot of pollen during allergy season, not over exercising, avoiding outdoors when it’s too hot and humid, and getting your dog to a healthy weight. Obesity can make it more difficult for your dog to breathe, so a change in diet may be necessary if your dog is overweight.

From a Chinese medicine perspective, we want to feed foods that are going to help with the energy, the Qi, the ability of that muscle to actually work and do what it’s supposed to do. And we also want to support the lungs and we want to decrease any phlegm production. So for phlegm, just easy treats–pears, apples, you can add a little bit of ground peppermint to their diet. Ginger works really well. Clams are amazing for draining phlegm. – Dr. Judy Morgan

Natural Remedies for Collapsed Trachea in Dogs with Dr. Judy Morgan (2)More tips from Dr. Morgan includes bone broth to strengthen the cartilage of the trachea, and natural sources of glucosamine, chondroitin, and hyaluronic acid, such as deer antler velvet and green lipped mussels. Honey is also a great option for a natural cough suppressant, and locally sourced honey can also help with your dog’s allergies.

I remember when Odie would have fits that I couldn’t get him to stop, it would be honey, and then the CBD Dog Health’s EASE, to reduce inflammation and calm him down.” – Angela Ardolino

CBD for Collapsed Trachea in Dogs

A CBD-rich Full Spectrum Hemp Extract has been shown to manage each of the previously mentioned symptoms that are associated with collapsed trachea in dogs, without the risk of adverse side effects and dangerous interactions that pharmaceuticals can bring.

CBD can help relieve irritation and pressure in the pulmonary system, as well as prevent further degeneration of the trachea and supporting cartilage, by combatting chronic inflammation. CBD has also been shown to help manage stress and anxiety, a great option for alleviating the stress that comes with episodes of tracheal collapse. Another study stated that CBD had shown “bronchodilator effects by acting on the airway smooth muscle, and may be beneficial in airway hyperreactivity.

Related: CBD for Collapsed Trachea in Dogs

Final Thoughts

Collapsing trachea is one of the most prevalent canine respiratory problems. While there is no cure for a collapsed trachea in dogs, you can help manage your pet’s symptoms with some lifestyle changes, and natural supplements to reduce anxiety and relieve inflammation.

If your dog is experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, make sure to discuss with your holistic veterinarian. Final diagnosis may require tests such as radiograph, echocardiogram, or fluoroscopy.

Listen to the whole episode above for all of Dr. Judy Morgan’s holistic recommendations for dogs with collapsed trachea.

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About Angela Ardolino

Angela Ardolino is a holistic pet expert who has been caring for animals for over 20 years. She operates a rescue farm, Fire Flake Farm, in Florida. In addition, she owns Beautify the Beast,  a natural pet salon and shop. Moreover, Angela got her certificate in Medical Cannabis Biology and Therapeutic use from the University of Vermont School of Medicine. Next, she founded CBD Dog Health to provide high quality, all-natural medical cannabis products designed specifically for pets.

Accordingly, she uses Full Spectrum Hemp Extract on all her pets at her rescue farm every day since 2016. Angela has five dogs. Odie a 15-year-old mini-schnauzer, Nina a 9-year-old Doberman. Jolene a 9-year-old mutt, Maza a 9-year-old mutt, and Rhemi a 9-year-old poodle. In addition, she has 4-10 more any time she is fostering or boarding. She is a member of the Society of Cannabis Clinicians and the Veterinary Cannabis Association. In fact, Angela has educated hundreds of medical doctors and veterinarians on the therapeutic uses of medical cannabis on animals.

About Dr. Judy Morgan

Dr. Judy has over 37 years experience as an integrative veterinarian, acupuncturist, chiropractor, food therapist, author, and speaker. Her goal is to change the lives of pets by educating and empowering pet parents worldwide in the use of natural healing therapies, and minimizing the use of chemicals, vaccinations, and poor quality processed food.

She has also won many awards such as:2018 Woman of the Year in the Pet Industry, 2019 Pet Age Woman of Influence, 2019 IAOTP Veterinarian of the Year, 2019 Veterinarian Hero Award Nominee and 2021 IAOTP Empowered Woman of the Year.

Natural Remedies for Collapsed Trachea in Dogs with Dr. Judy Morgan (2024)

FAQs

What can I give my dog at home for a collapsed trachea? ›

Honey, or honey with lemon juice or MCT oil can be soothing as needed. Give 1 tsp per 20 pounds. In mild cases of tracheal collapse, CBD can help to soothe your dog's cough and keep him from getting too excited.

Does CBD oil help with collapsed trachea in dogs? ›

While collapsed trachea in dogs currently has no cure, you can support your pet by alleviating anxiety and relieving the symptoms caused by inflammation. Thankfully, CBD is an all natural supplement to relieve symptoms of collapsed trachea in dogs!

How do you reverse a dog's collapsed trachea? ›

Mild tracheal collapse usually requires no treatment. If secondary problems are a concern, they should be addressed. For more severe or worsening cases, anti-inflammatories, antihistamines, airway dilators and cough suppressants may be used.

What aggravates collapsed trachea? ›

It may be triggered by exercise and excitement, worsen with pressure on the windpipe such as when a leash is used, or increase at night, after eating or drinking. Hot, humid weather also exacerbates the coughing.

How do you treat a collapsed trachea naturally? ›

Strengthen cartilage by feeding bone broth. Supplement with natural sources of glucosamine, chondroitin, and hyaluronic acid to support cartilage. Honey is a great cough suppressant and helps the immune system. A dab of honey given with meals and also when coughing fits occur can be helpful.

What natural remedy can I give my dog for coughing? ›

Honey can be a great home remedy for kennel cough as it can help soothe your dog's throat and minimize coughing. You can give your dog 1/2 tablespoon to 1 tablespoon of honey mixed with a little warm water in a bowl. This can be offered up to three times a day depending on how often your dog is coughing.

Will Benadryl help dog with collapsed trachea? ›

Benadryl is an antihistaminic widely used in dogs. The only time it can be given to patients with tracheal collapse is when allergies are suspected to be the secondary trigger for the condition. Otherwise, Benadryl won't have any effect on a collapsed trachea because the problem is of anatomical nature.

Is Steam Good for collapsed trachea in dogs? ›

Don't forget the hot steam shower if your dog is having an episode – it will help them immediately stop coughing!

How long can an old dog live with a collapsed trachea? ›

A dog with a collapsing trachea will survive for up to two years after being diagnosed. A dog's survival with this disease can be doubled to 4 years or more with surgical operations. You can help a dog live a longer life by taking extra precautions to help them treat their symptoms.

What triggers collapsed trachea in dogs? ›

While no one knows exactly what causes a dog to develop a collapsed trachea, there does seem to be a genetic factor—some breeds are more prone to the condition, including: Chihuahuas. Lhasa apsos. Pomeranians.

Can a collapsed trachea heal itself? ›

It can be mistaken for a reverse sneeze, but unlike a sneeze, this condition won't go away on its own.

Does barking aggravate collapsed trachea? ›

Clinical Symptoms of Tracheal Collapse

Goose honk sounding cough that is often triggered by excitement, eating or drinking, barking excessively, or pulling on the leash. Allergies and inhalation irritants like smoke can also induce the tracheal collapse cough.

Can collagen help collapsed trachea? ›

Ultra-Flex Collagen supplements can strengthen the cartilage rings within the trachea, helping to maintain proper airflow and respiration. Acid stomach, gulping, burping, vomiting bile and loose stool are common in dogs with collapsed trachea.

How do you stop your trachea from collapsing? ›

At this time there is no known prevention for tracheal collapse, although reducing weight or exposure to airway irritants such as smoke may help.
...
Medical management includes:
  1. weight loss.
  2. medications to reduce airway spasms and inflammation.
  3. sedation to reduce coughing and anxiety.

Does glucosamine help tracheal collapse? ›

It is not a cure but most dogs respond well to these treatments. Holistic vets recommend supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, and cartilage builders. Even taking fido to the chiropractor or getting acupuncture can help reduce the intensity of coughing episodes.

What can I give my dog for trachea cough? ›

Bronchodilators for dogs with collapsed trachea (such as theophylline, terbutaline, or albuterol) may be prescribed to open the airways within the lungs to allow more oxygen to reach the bloodstream. These medications can be prescribed in pill form or inhaled form.

Can Apple cider vinegar help a dogs cough? ›

If you have a dog that has clear, watery discharge from the eyes, a runny nose, or coughs with a liquid sound, use ACV in his or her food. One teaspoon twice a day for a 50 lb. dog will do the job.

What can I give my dog for coughing and gagging? ›

Persistent coughing can irritate the throat. At home, you can help to soothe your pup's throat with honey. Add a spoonful of honey to a bowl of water, up to three times per day. A small humidifier placed near the dog's bed can keep your pet's throat from drying out.

How can I increase my dog's oxygen level? ›

By ensuring optimal oxygenation and an alkaline pH level in the body, we can help keep cells and organs healthy, and even prevent disease in ourselves and our dogs.
...
Oxygenate your dog with exercise
  1. Take your dog out for a power walk.
  2. Play fetch with him.
  3. Take him swimming.
  4. Go up and down stairs.
31 May 2018

How do you know when to put a dog down with collapsing trachea? ›

When To Say Goodbye and Euthanize A Dog With Tracheal Collapse
  1. Severe impact to the heart or lungs.
  2. Frequent coughing throughout the day that cannot be managed.
  3. No longer being able to manage their symptoms with medication.
  4. Frequent respiratory distress.
  5. Inability to exercise without respiratory distress.
8 Jun 2021

How long do tracheal collapse episodes last? ›

These episodes can last for several minutes and generally resolve themselves. What is happening when these violent bouts occur is a part of the trachea collapses and falls into the airway. The trachea is not a complete circular cartilaginous ring. Three sides are cartilage and the dorsal portion is a soft membrane.

Does collapsed trachea get worse at night? ›

Symptoms of collapsing trachea may be worse at night, when your dog is excited, or immediately after eating and drinking. Humid weather, smoke inhalation, and pressure on the throat from a collar may also trigger coughing fits.

Can a dog suffocate from collapsed trachea? ›

As they become flatter, the trachea collapses more and more, and the dog suffocates progressively. There are 4 stages in the progression of the disease, from mild to severe (from Stage 1 to 4).

Is humidity good for collapsed trachea? ›

Avoid heat and humidity

When it is hot outside your dog should be inside if she is one with tracheal collapse. Every veterinarian will tell you when the humidity is up, coughing increases and the oxygen cages in animal ERs are full.

Can you give a dog Robitussin for a collapsed trachea? ›

Dextromethorphan can be appropriate to treat coughing in dogs, but it is only when used following your veterinarian's instructions. Just because this medication is available over the counter does not make it safe to give as you wish. It should be given to an animal only under the guidance of a licensed veterinarian.

What cough syrup can I give my dog for collapsed trachea? ›

PawHealer® Hound Honey: Trachea Soother Syrup - 150 ml (5 fl oz) - Natural Herbal Remedy for Symptoms of Collapsed Trachea - Tastes Good - Easy to Administer.

Can dogs with collapsed trachea live for 6 years? ›

But in truth, many dogs live a good life with a collapsed trachea (windpipe) for years. Only at its most severe stage is the condition life-threatening. Although there's no cure, a collapsed trachea can be managed with medication, lifestyle adjustments and sometimes surgery.

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