Laryngeal paralysis

Laryngeal paralysis means the “doorway” to the windpipe doesn’t open properly when a pet breathes in. The muscles that should pull the arytenoid cartilages outward are weak or paralysed, so the opening narrows (or even collapses) during a breath.

Dogs struggle most when hot, excited, or exercising; many have a change in voice and loud, harsh breathing.

In older medium–large dogs, laryngeal paralysis often reflects a broader, slowly progressive nerve problem (GOLPP).

The main surgery, unilateral arytenoid lateralization (“tie-back”), permanently opens one side of the larynx and usually improves breathing and quality of life—while carrying a real, lifelong risk of aspiration pneumonia that owners should understand up front.