Laryngeal Paralysis
What Is Laryngeal Paralysis?
The larynx (or voice box) helps control airflow and prevents food and water from entering the lungs. In dogs with laryngeal paralysis, the muscles that open the airway don’t work properly. This means that the airway doesn't open fully as the dog breathes, making it harder to get enough air—especially during exercise or excitement.
Common Symptoms:
Noisy, raspy breathing (especially when your dog is excited or after exercise)
Change in bark (hoarse or softer)
Coughing or gagging, especially when eating or drinking
Struggling during walks or tiring quickly
Difficulty breathing in warm weather
In more severe cases: collapse or bluish gums
Laryngeal paralysis usually develops slowly, with symptoms progressing over time.
In many cases, laryngeal paralysis is part of a condition called Geriatric Onset Laryngeal Paralysis & Polyneuropathy (GOLPP)—a slow-progressing nerve disease that affects older dogs, causing generalised muscle weakness (often most noticeable in the hind limbs). It may also be caused by injury, tumours, or underlying conditions like hypothyroidism.
Some breeds, like Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Newfoundlands, are more likely to develop this condition as they age.
Diagnosis.
Diagnosis is made by examination of laryngeal function under light general anaesthesia. In some cases, bloodwork, X-rays or thyroid testing may also be advised to check for related health problems.
Treatment.
In very mildly affected cases, managing the condition with lifestyle changes can make a big difference:
Keep your dog cool in hot weather
Avoid heavy exercise
Use a harness instead of a collar
Maintain a healthy weight
For most dogs, surgery is the best option. The procedure is called a unilateral arytenoid lateralisation, or “tie-back” surgery - sutures are placed in the laryngeal cartilages on one side of the larynx, such that this side is permanently opened to help your dog breathe better. The surgery has a high success rate, with a good prognosis for improvement in breathing and overall quality of life.
Post-Op Care.
· Keep your dog quiet for the first 2 weeks after surgery – short leash walks (on a harness) only.
· For the first 6 weeks, avoid situations which would encourage your dog to bark.
· Feed non-dusty food and give water from ground level.
· Due to the surgical dissection required for the procedure, a fluid accumulation or seroma can occur under the surgical site during the healing period. It is generally self-limiting and of no concern.
· Dogs that have had tie-back surgery are at increased risk of aspiration pneumonia (when food or water enters the lungs, causing inflammation and infection). If your dog becomes unwell or starts coughing, seek immediate veterinary attention. Most cases are easily treatable with a good outcome, but it can be a potentially life-threatening condition.
