Canine polyneuropathy involves dysfunction of multiple peripheral nerves, causing weakness, muscle wasting, and reduced quality of life in affected dogs.
Dogs with polyneuropathy experience progressive loss of mobility and function that significantly impacts quality of life. The condition often worsens over months to years, with increasing difficulty walking, exercising, and in severe cases breathing. Laryngeal paralysis, if present, causes respiratory distress during exercise and in hot weather. Pain is variable but present in some forms. Welfare monitoring should track mobility, respiratory signs, body condition, and the dog's ability to engage in activities it enjoys. Supportive care includes physiotherapy and assistive devices.