Pomeranians are small fluffy little dogs that are mostly healthy but, are prone to experiencing collapsed tracheas.
The distinct goose-honking sound is often a sure sign of a collapsed trachea. Many small breeds are more vulnerable to experiencing a breakdown of the cartilage around their trachea. This can be caused by various reasons including trauma and genetics.
What Is A Collapsed Trachea
The trachea or windpipe has little rings of cartilage that go around it and support the entire windpipe.
If the rings around the trachea lose some strength, the trachea can start to collapse and falls inward.
When the trachea starts to collapse it can become challenging for a dog to bring air into its lungs.
Why Do Pomeranians Get Collapsed Tracheas
Pomeranians are one of the breeds that are predisposed to collapsed tracheas.
The exact reason why Pomeranians are more vulnerable to the collapsed trachea is unknown but, experts believe it is due to genetics.
Some of the other breeds of dogs that are predisposed to tracheal collapse are Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, Yorkshire Terriers, and Toy Poodles.
At What Age Do Pomeranians Get Collapsed Tracheas
The majority of collapsed tracheas will occur between the ages of 4 to 14 years old.
Although, it is not as common it is possible for younger Pomeranians to experience a collapsed trachea.
13 Causes Of Collapsed Treacheas In Pomeranians
There are many different things that may contribute to a collapsed trachea in Pomeranians.
- Congenital Defects
- Chronic Airway Disease
- Trauma
- Tumors
- Obesity
- Respitory Irritation
- Bronchitis
- Pneumonia
- Congestive Heart Failure
- Humity
- Hot Weather
- Drinking too fast
- Eating too fast
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What Are The Symptoms Of A Collapsed Trachea
The most common and obvious symptom of a collapsed trachea is the distinct goose-honking coughing sound.
Some other symptoms include.
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing
- Gagging
- Coughing often
- Unable to exercise
- Blueish lips
- Vomitting
How Is A Collapsed Trachea Diagnosed
Your vet will need to do a physical exam on your dog as well as X-rays and possibly an endoscope or bronchoscope procedure.
Is A Treacheal Collapse Curable
Once a dog has a collapsed trachea it is not possible to cure it completely but, there are many different treatment options to greatly improve your dog’s condition.
Some of the most often used treatments for a collapsed trachea are.
- Anitboitics
- Cough Supressents
- Steriods
- Brochodilators
- Sedatives
- Oxygen
- Reducing your dogs weight
- Surgery
Can A Collapsed Trachea Heal Itself
Unfortunately, a collapsed trachea will not heal itself.
The majority of dogs will improve under the care of a vet.
The least invasion treatment path is preferred instead of going directly to surgery which carries the most risk.
Does A Collapsed Trachea Get Worse
A collapsed trachea can get worse over time.
There are four different grades of tracheal collapse.
Grade 1
The cells around your dog’s trachea are reduced by 25% but, there is currently no collapsing of the trachea.
Grade 2
The tracheal lumen is reduced by 50%, with partially flattened cartilage.
Grade 3
The tracheal lumen is reduced by 75%, with cartilage that is completely flat.
Grade 4
The tracheal lumen is gone and the cartilage is completely flat.
How Much Does A Tracheal Collapse Surgery Cost
The cost to repair your dog’s collapsed trachea will vary depending on your dog’s condition.
In most cases, you can expect the price to be between $3,500 and $6,500.
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How Long Can A Pomeranian Live With A Collapsed Trachea
It will depend on the severity of your dog’s condition and how successful the methods to repair or improved your dog’s condition is.
Most dogs that have a collapsed trachea will live 2 to 4 years with the condition.
Does A Collapsed Trachea Shorten A Dogs Life
A collapsed trachea will often shorten the lifespan of your dog.
How Can I Help My Pomeranian With A Collapsed Trachea
If your Pomeranian has a collapsed trachea the best advice for treatment you can get is from your dog’s vet.
If you are not happy with your vet’s advice you can always get a second opinion.
Some of the things you can do at home include.
- Always using a harness and never using a collar
- Avoid irritants like smoking, candles and strong cleaning chemicals
- Try to prevent over excitement
- Be cautious around hot and humid weather
- Gentle handling
How To Prevent Collapsed Tracheas In Pomeranians
Even though your dog may be more likely to experience a collapsed trachea there are things that you can do to help prevent it from happening.
Some of the same ways that you can help your dog with a collapsed trachea can also help prevent it.
- Always using a harness and never using a collar
- Avoid irritants like smoking, candles and strong cleaning chemicals
- Try to prevent over excitement
- Be cautious around hot and humid weather
- Gentle handling
Final Thoughts
Collapsed tracheas can be scary and affect the quality of your dog’s life.
Although, some dogs are more likely to experience a collapsed trachea there are things that you can do to help prevent it like always using a harness and never using a collar for a Pomeranian.
Treatment options have grown to include many non-invasive options that can improve your dog’s prognosis.
As with many things early diagnosis is always your best way to a better outcome.
