Juvenile‐onset bilateral laryngeal paralysis in a Hungarian Vizsla

Abstract A 13‐month‐old entire male Hungarian Vizsla was referred with a 6‐week history of non‐productive cough and exercise intolerance, primarily during and after walks. Physical and neurological examinations were unremarkable; however, severe stridor and inspiratory dyspnoea were noted after minimal exertion, resolving promptly with rest. Complete blood count, serum biochemistry, thyroid function tests (total free thyroxine and thyroid‐stimulating hormone) and an in‐clinic antigen test for Angiostrongylus vasorum were within normal limits. Computed tomography of the head, neck and thorax did not identify any abnormalities. Laryngeal function assessment under light anaesthesia revealed bilateral laryngeal paralysis. Surgical management via unilateral cricoarytenoid lateralization resulted in marked clinical improvement, with only intermittent coughing reported at a 1‐year follow‐up. This report describes a case of juvenile‐onset laryngeal paralysis in a Hungarian Vizsla and underscores the importance of including this condition in the differential diagnosis for young dogs presenting with signs of upper airway obstruction.