Laryngeal paralysis in dogs occurs when the folds of the larynx, or voice box, fail to function properly. The larynx is primarily cartilage and normally closes off the trachea when dogs swallow, preventing food or fluid from entering the airway.
When the laryngeal muscles become paralyzed, dogs lose this protective function. This creates serious health risks, including aspiration pneumonia if food or water enters the lungs instead of the esophagus.
Dogs with laryngeal paralysis often show recognizable symptoms. Affected dogs develop a raspy, hoarse bark or whine. Breathing becomes labored, especially during exercise or excitement. Some owners notice their dogs panting excessively or making a stridor sound, a high-pitched breathing noise that signals airway obstruction. Many affected dogs have difficulty eating or drinking, drooling more than usual, or coughing during meals.
The condition develops through several pathways. Older dogs, particularly large breeds like Labradors and Golden Retrievers, face higher risk. Laryngeal paralysis can result from nerve damage, trauma, hypothyroidism, or idiopathic causes where no clear reason exists. Some dogs inherit the condition genetically.
A veterinarian diagnoses laryngeal paralysis through physical examination and laryngoscopy, a procedure where the vet examines the larynx while the dog is anesthetized. Blood work may reveal underlying thyroid problems contributing to the paralysis.
Treatment depends on severity. Dogs with mild symptoms may manage with activity restriction, weight management, and medication addressing underlying conditions like hypothyroidism. More severely affected dogs require surgical intervention. The most common procedure is arytenoid lateralization, where a veterinary surgeon pulls one laryngeal fold aside to keep the airway permanently open.
Surgery carries risks, including