Home » Diseases » In dogs » Laryngeal Paralysis

Laryngeal Paralysis in Dogs

Occurrence: very rare
Location of illness: Head/Neck

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 06.11.2025

Laryngeal paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system. is a condition in which the nerves that control the muscles of the larynxThe larynx is an organ in the upper respiratory tract that contains the vocal cords and is important for speaking, breathing, and swallowing. The larynx also serves as a protective mechanism that prevents food and liquid from entering the trachea. are damaged or paralyzed, resulting in incomplete or absent movement of the vocal cords.

The most important facts at a glance

Laryngeal paralysis in dogs is a condition in which the nerve function of the larynxThe larynx is an organ in the upper respiratory tract that contains the vocal cords and is important for speaking, breathing, and swallowing. The larynx also serves as a protective mechanism that prevents food and liquid from entering the trachea. is impaired, leading to respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress and changes in the voice. The larynxThe larynx is an organ in the upper respiratory tract that contains the vocal cords and is important for speaking, breathing, and swallowing. The larynx also serves as a protective mechanism that prevents food and liquid from entering the trachea., also known as the voice box, is a structure made of cartilage, muscles, and ligaments, mainly controlled by the recurrentRecurrent refers to a disease that repeatedly returns or worsens after a temporary remission or improvement. laryngeal nerve. Causes can be hereditary or acquired, but an idiopathicIdiopathic refers to a condition or disease for which the cause is unknown. It is used when no clear external cause or underlying disease can be identified as an explanation for the symptoms. form often occurs, especially in older large dog breeds such as Labrador Retrievers. Other possible causes include traumaA trauma refers to a physical injury or damage caused by external force. Traumas can range from simple cuts to severe multiple injuries., infections, tumors, or systemic diseases such as hypothyroidism.

Typical symptoms include respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress, cough, panting, and abnormal breathing sounds. DiagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is made by clinical examination, laryngoscopyLaryngoscopy is an examination method in which the larynx is directly viewed with a laryngoscope, a special instrument with a light source. It is used for the diagnosis of diseases and injuries of the larynx., and possibly additional tests such as blood tests or X-rays. Treatment varies depending on the severity. Conservative measures such as weight control may be sufficient, while severe cases may require surgery, such as the “Tying Back” surgery to improve breathing. Careful monitoring is important after surgery to avoid complications.

The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. depends on the cause and treatment, but many dogs can have a good quality of life after successful surgery. Preventive measures are limited, but good health care and early detection can help. Research focuses on genetic predispositions, better surgical techniques, and new drug treatments to improve the quality of life of affected dogs.

Causes

The larynxThe larynx is an organ in the upper respiratory tract that contains the vocal cords and is important for speaking, breathing, and swallowing. The larynx also serves as a protective mechanism that prevents food and liquid from entering the trachea., also known as the voice box, is a complex structure of cartilage, muscles, and ligaments located in the dog’s throat. Its main function is to protect the airways during swallowing and to produce sound. The movements of the larynxThe larynx is an organ in the upper respiratory tract that contains the vocal cords and is important for speaking, breathing, and swallowing. The larynx also serves as a protective mechanism that prevents food and liquid from entering the trachea. are controlled by the recurrentRecurrent refers to a disease that repeatedly returns or worsens after a temporary remission or improvement. laryngeal nerve, a branch of the vagus nerveThe vagus nerve is the tenth cranial nerve and plays a central role in the parasympathetic nervous system. It affects the function of many internal organs, including the control of heart rate, gastrointestinal motility, and respiration in dogs and cats..

In laryngeal paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system., the function of this nerve is impaired, causing the vocal cords to no longer open or close properly. This can lead to respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress and a change in the dog’s voice. The causes of this nerve disorder can be varied, ranging from hereditary diseases to acquired conditions.

One of the most common causes of laryngeal paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system. in dogs is idiopathicIdiopathic refers to a condition or disease for which the cause is unknown. It is used when no clear external cause or underlying disease can be identified as an explanation for the symptoms. laryngeal paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system., where the exact cause is unknown. This form often occurs in older large dog breeds, especially the Labrador Retriever. In addition, laryngeal paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system. can also be hereditary, which is observed in certain breeds such as the Bouvier des Flandres and the Dalmatian.

Other causes may include traumaA trauma refers to a physical injury or damage caused by external force. Traumas can range from simple cuts to severe multiple injuries., infections, tumors in the neck area, or systemic diseases such as hypothyroidism. In some cases, paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system. can also result from surgical procedures in the neck area or from toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. influences.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Rare symptoms:

The symptoms of laryngeal paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system. often appear gradually and can vary depending on the severity of the condition. The most common signs include changes in the voice or barking, which may sound hoarse or rough.

Another common symptom is respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress, especially under stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. or in warm weather. Dogs with laryngeal paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system. may show loud breathing noises, especially when inhaling. These noises are caused by the inadequate opening of the vocal cords, which obstructs the airflow.

In more severe cases, the dogs may also cough, especially when drinking or eating. This may indicate the entry of liquids or food into the airways, which can lead to aspiration pneumonia. Some dogs also show a general malaise or a decrease in physical performance.

Diagnosis

The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of laryngeal paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system. usually begins with a thorough clinical examination and the recording of the dog’s medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits.. The veterinarian will look for the typical symptoms and ask the owner about the course and duration of the symptoms.

To confirm the diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients., a laryngoscopyLaryngoscopy is an examination method in which the larynx is directly viewed with a laryngoscope, a special instrument with a light source. It is used for the diagnosis of diseases and injuries of the larynx. is often performed. This is a procedure in which the veterinarian directly views the dog’s larynxThe larynx is an organ in the upper respiratory tract that contains the vocal cords and is important for speaking, breathing, and swallowing. The larynx also serves as a protective mechanism that prevents food and liquid from entering the trachea. to assess the mobility of the vocal cords. This examination is usually performed under light sedationSedation refers to the state of calming or suppressing the central nervous system with medication, which reduces anxiety and irritability and sometimes induces a light sleep. to keep the dog calm.

Additional diagnostic tests may include blood tests to rule out other underlying conditions such as hypothyroidism. In some cases, X-rays or an endoscopyEndoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a light source and a camera at the end) to examine and visualize the inside of the body, often for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. may also be performed to examine the neck area more closely and rule out other potential causes of the symptoms.

Therapy

The treatment of laryngeal paralysis can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the individual needs of the dog. In mild cases, conservative measures such as weight control, avoidance of heat stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being., and the use of a harness instead of a collar may be sufficient.

In more severe cases, surgery may be required. A commonly performed surgery is the so-called “Tying Back” surgery (arytenoid lateralization), in which part of the larynxThe larynx is an organ in the upper respiratory tract that contains the vocal cords and is important for speaking, breathing, and swallowing. The larynx also serves as a protective mechanism that prevents food and liquid from entering the trachea. is permanently opened to improve airflow. This surgery can significantly relieve respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress but carries the risk of complications such as aspiration pneumonia.

After surgery, it is important to carefully monitor the dog and follow all postoperativePostoperative refers to the time after a surgical operation. This phase includes recovery and the management of possible complications after the procedure. instructions from the veterinarian. Recovery can take several weeks, and it is important to keep the dog calm and avoid strenuous activities during this time.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for dogs with laryngeal paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system. depends on several factors, including the cause of the paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system., the severity of the symptoms, and the treatment performed. In many cases, surgical treatment can significantly improve the dog’s quality of life and relieve symptoms.

However, the risk of complications such as aspiration pneumonia remains, especially in dogs that have undergone surgery. Long-term monitoring and regular veterinary check-ups are important to monitor the dog’s health and respond to potential problems early.

Dogs with idiopathicIdiopathic refers to a condition or disease for which the cause is unknown. It is used when no clear external cause or underlying disease can be identified as an explanation for the symptoms. laryngeal paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system. who are successfully operated on can often have a good quality of life, although they may need to make some adjustments to their lifestyle to avoid respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress and stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being..

Prevention

Since laryngeal paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system. in dogs is often idiopathicIdiopathic refers to a condition or disease for which the cause is unknown. It is used when no clear external cause or underlying disease can be identified as an explanation for the symptoms. or genetic factors play a role, there are no specific measures to completely prevent the disease. However, some general measures can help reduce the risk or slow the progressionProgression refers to the advancement or worsening of a disease over time. It describes an increase in the severity or extent of the disease symptoms. of symptoms.

Good general health care, including regular veterinary examinations and a balanced diet, can help promote the dog’s overall health and minimize potential risk factors. Weight control is important because overweight can worsen respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress.

Early detection of symptoms and timely veterinary examination can also help to recognize the disease at an earlier stage and initiate appropriate treatment. This can help improve the quality of life of the affected dog and potentially avoid more serious complications.

Outlook on current research

Laryngeal paralysis in dogs is an area of intensive veterinary medical research, as the disease has a significant impact on the quality of life of affected animals. One of the most important areas of research deals with the genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. for this disease. Scientists are investigating specific genetic markers that are more common in certain breeds to better understand which dogs are at higher risk. These genetic studies could ultimately lead to the development of genetic tests that help identify at-risk dogs early and take preventive measures.

Another significant area of research focuses on improving surgical techniques for the treatment of laryngeal paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system.. The most commonly performed surgery is the so-called “Tie-Back” surgery, which keeps the larynx open and facilitates breathing. Researchers are working to optimize this technique to increase the success rate and minimize complications such as aspiration pneumonia. New approaches, such as minimally invasiveInvasive describes medical procedures or pathogens that enter the body or penetrate tissue. In medicine, invasive procedures can range from minimally invasive techniques to open surgery. surgical procedures, are also being investigated to reduce recovery time and the risk of postoperativePostoperative refers to the time after a surgical operation. This phase includes recovery and the management of possible complications after the procedure. infections.

In addition, veterinary medical research is working intensively on the development of new drug treatment strategies. Current studies are evaluating the use of drugs that improve nerve function or have anti-inflammatory properties to slow the progressionProgression refers to the advancement or worsening of a disease over time. It describes an increase in the severity or extent of the disease symptoms. of laryngeal paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system. or relieve symptoms. These pharmacological approaches could be a valuable addition or alternative to surgical procedures, especially for dogs who cannot tolerate surgery due to their age or other health problems.

Finally, there are also research efforts that focus on the rehabilitation and care of dogs with laryngeal paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system.. PhysiotherapyVeterinary physiotherapy encompasses a range of treatment methods aimed at improving the mobility and well-being of animals through exercise, massage, and other manual techniques. programs aimed at strengthening the respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. muscles and improving general fitness are being tested. These programs could help to significantly improve the quality of life of the affected dogs and extend their lifespan. By combining research findings from various disciplines, scientists hope to develop more comprehensive and effective treatment plans for dogs with laryngeal paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system..

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is Laryngeal ParalysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system. in Dogs? Laryngeal paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system. is a condition in which the muscles that open and close the larynx no longer function properly. This leads to a narrowing of the airways and can cause respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress.
Which dogs are most commonly affected? Laryngeal paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system. is more common in older, large dog breeds such as Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and Irish Setters. However, it can also occur in younger dogs and smaller breeds.
What are the symptoms of laryngeal paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system.? Typical symptoms include loud breathing, cough, hoarseness, choking sounds, reduced resilience, and in severe cases, respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress. Some dogs may also experience coughing or gagging when eating or drinking.
How is laryngeal paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system. diagnosed? The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is usually made through a combination of clinical examination, taking a detailed medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits., and a visual examination of the larynx, often under sedationSedation refers to the state of calming or suppressing the central nervous system with medication, which reduces anxiety and irritability and sometimes induces a light sleep., by a veterinarian.
What treatment options are there? The most common treatment is the surgical “Tie-Back” surgery, in which one side of the larynxThe larynx is an organ in the upper respiratory tract that contains the vocal cords and is important for speaking, breathing, and swallowing. The larynx also serves as a protective mechanism that prevents food and liquid from entering the trachea. is held open to facilitate breathing. In some cases, drug therapies or changes in the dog’s lifestyle can also help.
Can laryngeal paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system. be prevented? Since the exact cause is often unknown and genetic factors may play a role, preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. is difficult. Nevertheless, regular veterinary examinations and a healthy lifestyle can help promote general well-being.
Are there complications with the treatment? Yes, one of the most common complications after the “Tie-Back” surgery is aspiration pneumonia, in which food or liquid enters the lungs. This can lead to a serious Pneumonia that requires immediate veterinary treatment.
What is the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. for dogs with laryngeal paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system.? With appropriate treatment and care, many dogs can maintain a good quality of life. However, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. varies depending on the severity of the condition and the dog’s general health.
What can I do to support my dog? Keep your dog in a cool environment, avoid stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. and overexertion, and offer a soft, easily digestible diet. Regular veterinary check-ups are also important.
Are certain lifestyle changes necessary? Yes, dogs with laryngeal paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system. benefit from a calm and stress-free lifestyle. Avoid strenuous activities and heat exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats.. Overweight should be avoided as it can worsen the symptoms.