Archive Case #64: Canine Tracheal Collapse

Clinical Clues

1. An older toy breed dog is presented for a long-running harsh cough that worsens with excitement.
2. The owner says the cough sounds goose-like and is most noticeable on walks.
3. Warm weather and pulling against the collar make the episodes worse.
4. Gentle palpation over the neck reliably triggers a coughing fit.
5. Dynamic airway imaging shows marked collapse of the affected segment during respiration.
6. Canine tracheal collapse is a classic cause of this harsh cough in small-breed dogs.

Diagnosis

Canine Tracheal Collapse

This case is most consistent with Canine Tracheal Collapse because the dog has a classic honking cough, small-breed signalment, and imaging evidence of dynamic tracheal narrowing. The most important clues are the collar-triggered cough and airway collapse on imaging, which make a primary lung disease less likely.

Educational Use

Vetdle archive cases are educational veterinary games for diagnostic reasoning practice. They do not provide veterinary advice, diagnosis, treatment, or professional medical guidance.