Laryngeal Paralysis in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment, and What To Do

Early onset and mild cases may be managed medically and with some environmental adjustments, such as feeding more frequent but smaller meals.

Published: May 18, 2026

Laryngeal paralysis in dogs is a potentially serious condition affecting the folds of the larynx (back of your dog’s throat). The larynx, also called the voice box, is a body part made primarily of cartilage that helps to close off the trachea when your dog swallows. That keeps food or fluid from getting into your dog’s airways and possibly causing inhalation pneumonia.