Laryngeal Paralysis – the nerves of the larynx stop working. The larynx cartilages protect the lungs by closing when the dog is eating or drinking and opening for breathing. With laryngeal paralysis, the larynx cartilages become floppy and don’t open and shut properly making it difficult for a dog to breath and increases the risk of food or drink entering the lungs.
Polyneuropathy – loss of function of the peripheral nerves (not the spinal cord) that control the limb muscles. Owners will notice the hind legs affected first – weakness, stumbling, dragging toes. It is not painful.