Collapsing Trach

Question
I have a 7 year old male yorkie.  He has a collapsing trachea.  When he drinks water it really bothers him.  For the last few days his bark is sounding weak.  Can this be related?  I recently purchased a cockatiel - he barks at it a lot.  I tell him it's mommie's bird and that does help, but if I go outside he starts barking at it.  I wonder if this extra barking could be bothering his condition?

Please let me know, I am worried about him.

Thank you!

Answer
Hi Brenda!  Hoarse barking is definitely a symptom of a collapsing trachea.  The only cure for a collapsing trachea is a surgery that will regenerate the trachea.  Barking in itself shouldn't cause the trachea condition to worsen.  Collars cause collapsing tracheas, especially in small dogs, from them pulling when being walked.  If you are still using a collar, switching to a harness would be most beneficial.
Hilary