Understanding Neurological and Neuromuscular Health in the Bouvier des Flandres

Quick answer

The Bouvier des Flandres is a robust breed, but owners should be aware of a specific neuromuscular condition known as laryngeal paralysis. This condition affects the muscles that control the airway, which can lead to breathing difficulties. Because this is a recognised tendency in the breed, early detection through consistent observation of your dog's breathing at rest is essential for maintaining their quality of life.

Laryngeal Paralysis

Laryngeal paralysis is a condition that affects the function of the larynx, or voice box. In the Bouvier des Flandres, this is a recognised tendency rather than a proven one. The larynx acts as a gatekeeper for the airway, opening wide when the dog breathes in to allow air into the lungs and closing during swallowing to prevent food or water from entering the windpipe. When the muscles responsible for pulling the laryngeal cartilages open fail to function correctly, the airway does not open as wide as it should. This creates resistance to airflow, which can make breathing difficult, especially during exercise or in warm weather.

Recognising the signs at home

The first thing an owner often notices is a change in the sound of the dog's breathing. You might hear a harsh, high-pitched noise when your dog inhales, which is often referred to as stridor. This sound may become more pronounced when the dog is excited, playing, or walking in the heat. Another early indicator is a change in the dog's bark. The bark may sound weaker, hoarser, or lose its normal tone entirely. Because the larynx also plays a role in swallowing, some dogs may begin to cough or gag more frequently, particularly after eating or drinking. If you notice your dog struggling to catch their breath after only mild exertion, or if their breathing sounds noisy even when they are resting, it is time to investigate further.

Veterinary assessment and diagnosis

When you bring your dog to the clinic, the veterinarian will focus on evaluating the upper airway. They will listen to the chest and throat with a stethoscope to determine if the noise is coming from the larynx or deeper in the lungs. The definitive way to diagnose laryngeal paralysis is through a procedure called a laryngeal exam. This is performed under a very light plane of sedation. The vet uses a laryngoscope to look directly at the laryngeal cartilages while the dog is breathing. They are looking to see if the cartilages move outward when the dog inhales. If they remain stationary or move inward, the diagnosis is confirmed. This test is vital because it distinguishes laryngeal paralysis from other conditions that cause noisy breathing, such as tracheal collapse or lung disease.

Urgency and management

Determining urgency depends on how much the condition is affecting your dog's ability to oxygenate their blood. If your dog is panting excessively, has blue-tinged gums, or appears panicked because they cannot get enough air, this is a medical emergency. In these moments, the dog's airway may be so obstructed that they cannot cool themselves or breathe effectively. The most common mistake owners make is waiting too long to seek help, hoping the breathing will improve once the dog rests. If your dog shows signs of respiratory distress, they need immediate cooling and veterinary intervention to stabilize their airway. While the hereditary form of this condition has been reported with clinical signs observed at a young age, how this passes down is not settled. Ongoing management involves lifestyle adjustments, such as avoiding strenuous exercise during the heat of the day and using a harness instead of a collar to prevent pressure on the neck.