There’s nothing cuter than a sleeping dog. But what if your adorable dog is snoring loudly? It not only detracts from the cuteness but can also raise concerns if you are unsure of its cause or whether it is normal. Table Of Contents.
There’s usually no need to be concerned about snoring, if your dog:
Breeds with flat or short faces are destined to struggle with snoring. They are referred to as “brachycephalic,” which simply means that their snout is shorter than average, and they frequently experience breathing problems. Breeds like Pugs, Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, and Chow Chows all fall into this category and may snore for the rest of their lives without experiencing any negative health effects. However, Dr. Hohenhaus cautions that these dogs may frequently experience breathing problems that could prevent them from getting enough oxygen; these problems are typically resolved through surgery. Your veterinarian will be able to let you know if there are more serious issues present or if everything is going according to plan if you have a brachycephalic puppy.
If your dog only snores during the summer, they likely have seasonal allergies, just like us. He may produce more mucus as a result of the allergy, which may be the problem. If your dog has a physical allergy to dust, pollen, or another substance, consult Dr Hohenhaus advises keeping your dog indoors with air conditioning most of the time and washing their face and paws when they return inside after going outside. If your dog has been sneezing, congested, and sporting watery eyes, he may be suffering from a cold, which could also be the source of his snoring. It’s not always necessary to take your dog to the vet if they are still acting normally in general (eating, drinking, playing), but it’s best to take them there if their symptoms worsen or continue.
Just like us humans, the way your dog sleeps could be restricting his airways and causing the snoring. An easy fix for this is physically moving your pup, laying him down on his side instead of his back. You could also try buying a small pillow for your pup to prop his head on when he sleeps or a bed with one built in, making it less likely he’ll roll over to his back
What Is Snoring?
The sound of snoring is caused by the upper airway’s loose tissue vibrating while a person sleeps. When breathing occurs, the upper airways, which include the throat, back of the mouth, and nose, vibrate audibly. The likelihood of vibrations and the resulting snoring is highest during sleep, when the tissues of the upper airways are relaxed.
Why Does My Dog Snore So Loud?
The narrowing of the airway determines how loud the snoring becomes. The thinner the airway, the louder the snoring will become.
When your dog is awake, does it sound like he’s snoring? Usually, this is the result of nasal or chest congestion. Your dog may snore if mucus from a cold or infection enters the airway.
A sleep disorder called apnea makes breathing stop and start while you’re resting. It can be very serious but is rare in dogs. In addition to snoring, keep an eye out for signs of extreme fatigue, agitation, and gasping or choking while sleeping if you have any concerns about this.
Similar to snoring, you can anticipate your dog to breathe heavily while he sleeps, especially if he’s warm and panting to regulate his body temperature. However, if it seems out of the ordinary, it might be an indication of something more serious, such as a respiratory infection or heart condition, and it would be wise to speak with your veterinarian.
FAQ
What does it mean when a dog snores?
Snoring is caused by the tissues in your dog’s nose, mouth, or throat vibrating as air passes through them. If your pet’s airway narrows as a result of inflammation, an obstruction, congestion, or other problems, the sound effects are more likely to occur.
Which dog breeds snore the most?
- The Pug. …
- The Bulldog. …
- The Shih Tzu. …
- The French Bulldog. …
- The Boston Terrier.
Is it normal for dogs to snore loud?
Similar to humans, dogs snore when their throats or nasal passages are congested. Your dog sleeping on his back can be the cause of this, which is completely normal. The tongue may retract toward the throat, obstructing easy breathing.
Do dogs snore when they are happy?
If your dog is content, energetic, healthy, and eating well, her snoring may simply be a sign that she’s leading a fulfilling life.