Can Dogs Lose Their Voice? Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

Dogs are known for their adorable barks, but what happens when they lose their voice? Can dogs lose their voice at all?

In this blog post, we will answer these questions and more.

We will discuss the causes of dog vocal cord paralysis, how to treat it, and how to prevent it from happening in the first place.

Keep reading for more information on this important topic!

What causes a dog to lose its voice?

There are a few different things that can cause a dog to lose its voice. It includes:

Vocal cord paralysis

This is the most common cause of a dog losing its voice.

It can be caused by an injury to the nerves that control the vocal cords or by a tumor pressing on those nerves.

Vocal cord paralysis can also be congenital, which means it’s something your dog was born with.

Dogs with vocal cord paralysis will have a soft, raspy bark or they may not be able to bark at all.

Laryngeal paralysis

Laryngeal paralysis is another common cause of a dog losing its voice. It occurs when the muscles that open and close the larynx (or voice box) don’t work correctly.

This can be caused by an injury, a tumor, or a neurological condition.

Dogs with laryngeal paralysis will have a loud, raspy bark.

Tracheal collapse

Tracheal collapse is a condition that occurs when the trachea (windpipe) collapses.

It’s most common in small breeds of dogs, such as Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians, and Chihuahuas.

Dogs with tracheal collapse will have a harsh, raspy bark.

How long does it take for a dog to get their voice back?

Most times, a dog will get their voice back within a few days.

The voices of dogs are comparable to those of humans in the way that they use them to speak and express themselves.

If you have ever heard a dog whimper, yelp, or bark, then you know that their tone can change based on their emotions.

Excitement, happiness, fear, and pain are all conveyed through vocalizations.

So, if your dog has recently lost their voice, it can be worrying.

Thankfully, in most cases, it is nothing to worry about and they will regain their voice within a few days.

However, if the paralysis is caused by a tumor or other growth, it may be permanent.

If you are concerned about your dog’s health, it is always best to consult with a veterinarian.

How to treat a dog that loses its voice?

If your dog loses its voice, the best thing you can do is take them to the vet.

The vet will be able to determine the cause of the vocal cord paralysis and recommend treatment.

In some cases, no treatment is necessary and the paralysis will resolve on its own. However, it is because of:

Vocal cord paralysis

If your dog suffers from vocal cord paralysis, the vet may recommend:

• Surgery to remove the growth or tumor causing the paralysis

• Surgery to repair the damage to the nerves

• Physical therapy to help your dog learn how to use their voice again

Laryngeal paralysis

If your dog suffers from laryngeal paralysis, the vet may recommend: 

• Surgery to remove any growths or tumors that are causing the paralysis

• Surgery to repair the damage to the nerves or muscles

• A special dog collar that will help keep the airway open

Tracheal collapse

If your dog suffers from tracheal collapse, the vet may recommend:

• Surgery to place a stent in the trachea to keep it from collapsing

• Surgery to remove any growths or tumors that are causing the collapse

• A special diet to help your dog maintain a healthy weight.

How to prevent a dog from losing its voice?

There are a few things you can do to prevent your dog from losing its voice.

Keep them at a healthy weight

Obesity is a major health concern for dogs, as it can lead to a multitude of health problems. One of the most serious complications of obesity is tracheal collapse.

The trachea, or windpipe, is a long, tubular structure that carries air to the lungs.

It is supported by a network of cartilage rings, which keep the trachea open and allow air to flow freely.

Avoid giving them too much exercise

Excessive exercise can lead to vocal cord paralysis, which is a serious condition that results in the inability to speak.

The vocal cords are two bands of muscle that vibrate when we breathe out. This vibration produces sound waves, which we use to speak.

When the vocal cords are paralyzed, they can no longer vibrate, and as a result, the voice is silenced. 

Give them regular check-ups

Regular check-ups with the vet can help to identify any health problems that may be causing vocal cord paralysis.

Early detection and treatment are essential for preventing permanent damage to the vocal cords.

Vaccinate them against kennel cough

Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory disease that can cause inflammation of the voice box or larynx.

This inflammation can lead to vocal cord paralysis, so it is important to vaccinate your dog against kennel cough.

Final words

While it can be worrying to see your dog lose their voice, in most cases, it is nothing to worry about and it will regain its voice within a few days.

However, if the paralysis is caused by a tumor or other growth, it may be permanent.

If you are concerned about your dog’s health, it is always best to consult with a veterinarian.

The vet will be able to determine the cause of the vocal cord paralysis and recommend treatment.