What is laryngeal paralysis?
Laryngeal paralysis is a condition where the cartilages of the larynx (voice box) fail to open and close properly. Normally, when your dog inhales, the arytenoid cartilages spread apart to let air into the trachea. In laryngeal paralysis, these cartilages remain partially closed, obstructing airflow and making it difficult for your dog to breathe. This can be a life-threatening emergency if not addressed promptly.
Common symptoms
The signs of laryngeal paralysis can develop gradually or appear suddenly. Watch for these key symptoms:
- Noisy breathing (stridor): A harsh, raspy sound when inhaling, especially during exercise or excitement.
- Change in bark: A hoarse, weak, or muffled bark.
- Gagging or coughing: Especially when eating or drinking.
- Exercise intolerance: Your dog tires easily or pants excessively.
- Blue-tinged gums (cyanosis): A sign of oxygen deprivation - seek emergency care immediately.
- Collapse: In severe cases, dogs may faint from lack of oxygen.
Breeds most at risk
While any dog can develop laryngeal paralysis, large and giant breeds are predisposed, including:
- Labrador Retrievers
- Golden Retrievers
- Basset Hounds
- Newfoundlands
- Saint Bernards
- Irish Setters
- Mixed breeds with similar conformation
Laryngeal paralysis can also be acquired later in life, often in older dogs (over 8 years).
What causes laryngeal paralysis?
Most cases are idiopathic - meaning no specific cause is found. However, possible contributing factors include:
- Neurological disorders (e.g., polyneuropathy)
- Trauma to the neck or larynx
- Tumors or masses pressing on the laryngeal nerves
- Hypothyroidism (rare but possible)
- Congenital (present at birth) in some breeds
Laryngeal paralysis can also be part of a more widespread nerve condition called geriatric onset laryngeal paralysis polyneuropathy (GOLPP), which affects multiple nerves in the body.
Diagnosis
If you suspect laryngeal paralysis, your veterinarian will perform a thorough examination. The gold standard for diagnosis is laryngoscopy: your dog is sedated, and a small camera is passed into the throat to observe the movement of the arytenoid cartilages. Other tests may include:
- X-rays or ultrasound to rule out tumors
- Blood tests to check for underlying disease
- Electromyography (EMG) to assess nerve function
Treatment options
Medical management
For mild cases or dogs that are not good surgical candidates, management focuses on reducing respiratory stress:
- Avoid triggers: Keep your dog calm, avoid excessive exercise, and limit exposure to heat and humidity.
- Weight management: Excess weight puts extra pressure on the airway.
- Anti-anxiety medication: To reduce panting and stress.
- Oxygen therapy: In acute flare-ups.
Surgical treatment
For dogs with significant breathing difficulty, surgery is often recommended. The most common procedure is unilateral arytenoid lateralization (also called a “tie-back”). In this surgery, one of the arytenoid cartilages is permanently secured in an open position to improve airflow. It has a high success rate, but there are risks:
- Aspiration pneumonia: Because the larynx cannot close fully, food or water may enter the trachea. This is the most common complication.
- Long-term coughing: Some dogs may have a persistent cough.
Post-surgery, your dog will need to be fed elevated, and you may need to adjust how they eat and drink.
Lifestyle adjustments
Whether you choose medical management or surgery, these tips can help your dog live comfortably:
- Use a harness instead of a collar to avoid pressure on the throat.
- Feed from an elevated bowl to reduce the risk of aspiration.
- Monitor breathing during play and rest. If you hear stridor, stop activity.
- Keep a cool environment - hot weather worsens breathing.
- Have a plan for emergencies: Know where the nearest 24-hour vet is.
What to do in a crisis
If your dog collapses, has blue gums, or cannot catch their breath, this is a life-threatening emergency. Immediately:
- Keep your dog calm and quiet.
- Move them to a cool, well-ventilated area.
- Place them in a comfortable position with their head elevated.
- Rush to the nearest veterinary emergency hospital.
Do not attempt to force water or give any medication unless directed by a vet.
Conclusion
Laryngeal paralysis is a serious but manageable condition. Early recognition of symptoms like noisy breathing and exercise intolerance can save your dog's life. Work closely with your veterinarian to determine the best treatment plan - whether medical management or surgery - and adapt your home environment to keep your dog safe. With proper care, many dogs with laryngeal paralysis continue to enjoy a good quality of life.