Australian Silky Terriers are more commonly known as Silky Terriers and are known to be a healthy breed of dog. Despite being a healthy breed, a Silky Terrier is also known to be subject to certain types of genetic disorders, such as tracheal collapse. Most toy breeds are the most likely to develop tracheal collapse, although it occasionally occurs in larger breeds. Tracheal collapse can be serious and requires veterinary attention. In some cases, a change in lifestyle and medication may be enough to alleviate or even correct the condition, while in other severe cases the dog may require a surgical procedure due to the condition.

The trachea is known by the medical term “windpipe” and is a muscular organ in the throat that carries ambient air to and from the lungs. The windpipe must be open at all times, as air that cannot get out of the lungs can cause suffocation and death. Air is moved through the trachea by means of tough C-shaped cartilage and in several breeds of toy dogs the cartilage weakens and does not allow the trachea to remain open effectively. The cause of a collapse is idiopathic and is believed to be a combination of many factors. One theory suggests that the chemical composition of cartilage is abnormal and it cannot support an open windpipe. When cartilage weakens, the windpipe collapses and air cannot move freely in and out of the dog’s body.

Tracheal collapse causes the dog to experience bouts of coughing and airway obstruction. Signs of collapse appear most often when a dog is 6 years of age or older. Dogs that develop tracheal collapse will often have a persistent, dry cough that may sound like the “honk” of a goose or “bark” like a seal, may also show signs of shortness of breath, retching, and the gums may be cyanotic ( blue). The dog may not be able to exercise or be active for long periods of time; physical exertion causes fatigue and sluggishness. When tracheal collapse occurs, trapped mucus and secretions are released, and sometimes the secretions can also lead to further airway obstruction.

To treat a collapse, a vet will typically use steroids, bronchodilators, and cough suppressants along with antibiotics. Obesity in the dog can also aggravate tracheal collapse, and often simply putting the dog on a diet will help alleviate the condition. If none of the traditional treatment methods work for a collapse, a vet may consider tracheal reconstruction surgery; The outcome of the surgery will depend on the age and general health of the dog. Aside from obesity, there are also other conditions that can lead to tracheal collapse, such as chronic bronchitis, congestive heart failure, long palate, pneumonia, allergies, and repeated exposure to airborne irritants such as dust, pollen, and smoke. Often times, treating the environment or underlying health conditions will help improve symptoms of canine tracheal collapse. While there is no long-term cure for the condition, with proper veterinary care and intervention, the dog can still have a good quality of life.