GOLPP - Geriatric Onset Laryngeal Paralysis and Polyneuropathy

On a mission to educate and support dogs, owners and vets about this condition.

What is GOLPP?

GOLPP, is a neurological condition that affects older dogs. A dog will start to have difficulty breathing and progressive weakness starting in the hind legs, then progressing to the front legs.


Geriatric Onset – occurs in older dogs, usually between the ages of 8 and 13.

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.

Resources to Start Helping your Dog TODAY

Recently Diagnosed with GOLPP?

Get our 5-step guide of the things you need to know RIGHT NOW to start helping your dog!

GOLPP, Laryngeal paralysis

Think your dog has GOLPP?

Use our symptom checklist to help you prepare to discuss what you are seeing with your vet.

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