Laryngeal paralysis in dogs is a condition that affects the larynx in canines. Also known as lar par in dogs, this condition is common in large dog breeds and older dogs. Golden retrievers, Labradors, German Shepherds, Caucasian Shepherds, and Great Danes are all susceptible to getting laryngeal paralysis. The larynx or voice box allows the passage of air into the lungs via the trachea. It is also the larynx that prevents food and water from entering the trachea and lungs.

When the larynx becomes weakened and partially or fully paralyzed, food and water can mistakenly enter the trachea, causing choking and gagging. Keeping food down can become problematic, too. One of the most common symptoms of laryngeal paralysis in dogs is noisy, loud breathing. Dogs experiencing from Lar Par find it difficult to breathe quietly or with ease.

How Dogs with Laryngeal Paralysis Sound Like

There are several signs that indicate that a dog has developed laryngeal paralysis. A major change that occurs in dogs is a change in sound. Most affected dogs will start sounding different. Change in dog breathing sounds is the common denominator.

Here is a list of sound changes in dog suffering Lar Par:

1.) Loud, rough breathing

As the larynx collapses, the air passage becomes restricted and breathing becomes difficult. The strain to breathe comes out noisy and rough, which is a common characteristic of laryngeal paralysis in dogs.

2.) Change in barking

When the larynx gets affected, another common sound change is barking. Affected dogs have a harsh, rougher bark that is completely different from how it used to be.

3.) Gagging

Dogs with laryngeal paralysis will struggle to keep food or water down. With the larynx in crisis, swallowing with ease is a challenge. Expect coughing, gagging, and vomiting when the larynx is compromised.

4.) Coughing

Some pups will experience severe coughing episodes as laryngeal paralysis ravages their respiratory system. This comes from poor passage of air to and from the respiratory tract. Dog paralysis gets degenerative over time if no treatment is given to the affected animal.

Getting Started with Laryngeal Paralysis Treatment

Laryngeal Paralysis in dogs can be treated with surgery in different forms. Apart from surgery, healthy lifestyle choices can make a difference if followed to the letter. Anti-inflammatory medication can also reduce swelling in the chest and throat regions, which can be affected as a consequence of Lar Par.

Safari Veterinary Care Centers provides a holistic surgical treatment that’s effective for resolving symptoms of laryngeal paralysis in dogs. These are different surgical solutions available for this condition:

1.) Tie-back Surgery

This surgical procedure is done through the side of the neck. The affected muscle or tissue is targeted and permanently adjusted to leave an opening on one side of the larynx to allow free flow of air. Recovery is often fast and safe for Tie-back surgery.

2.) Castellated laryngofissure

This procedure involves increasing the airway using intricate reconstructions and cuts in the larynx down to the trachea. When it comes to risk, this surgical treatment is on the high side. Only agree to this procedure if done by a reputable animal clinic.

3.) Partial Arytenoidectomy

There is a major risk of scars forming on the treated surface - these scars can grow to block the airways all over again. This procedure involves the cutting away of parts of the larynx to create space for the free flow of air.

It involves a permanent cutting away of major parts of the trachea to create enough air passage. This advanced procedure is recommended when a tie-back surgery has failed, which fortunately, is rare. Dogs treated with permanent tracheostomy stand a high chance of having random laryngeal complications.

Lar Par in dogs is not a death sentence for your furry child. With proper care and lifestyle changes, your pup can live a decent life free from health problems regardless of laryngeal paralysis issues. Surgery will typically resolve symptoms of laryngeal paralysis to a high degree, but it must be done at a reputable animal clinic.

Safari Veterinary Care Centers is available to handle all pet health concerns once you book an appointment. Reach out to us today to begin your pet’s journey to full health recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.) What does laryngeal paralysis sound like in dogs that have it?

It comes with a noisy, harsh, and loud breath accompanied by excessive panting and breathing difficulty. It gets worse in hot weather or after intense physical activity. Visit a vet clinic if these signs are present in your pet.

2.) Is noisy, loud breathing always a sign of laryngeal paralysis?

Not all cases of noisy breathing are caused by Lar Par in dogs. Take your pup to the vet hospital if you notice noisy breathing in your dog. A proper diagnosis will detect the root cause of the anomaly so that treatment can commence.

3.) What are the signs of laryngeal paralysis in dogs?

The early signs of laryngeal paralysis in dogs include bark change, raspy and noisy breathing, gagging and coughing, and lack of interest in physical activity. Please visit a pet clinic if any of these signs are noticed; whether it turns out to be laryngeal paralysis or not is a different matter.

4.) Are there breeds of dogs that are at more risk of laryngeal paralysis?

Yes, older dogs and large breeds of dogs like Saint Bernards, Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and others are likely to develop this condition. Male dogs are typically more at risk compared to female dogs.

5.) Is laryngeal paralysis in dogs life-threatening?

Yes, in severe cases, laryngeal paralysis can become life-threatening if the dog’s breathing becomes restricted for a long time. Affected pet owners have sometimes found their dogs passed out from a lack of air. It’s important to rush your pet to the vet if it’s struggling to breathe, especially when the weather is hot.