Why Do Dogs Snore?

By Owen Jones

We all know that it is not unusual for pet owners to allow their pets to sleep with them at night. In fact, one third of pet owners have at some time, permitted their pets to sleep on their beds. Dogs provide a companionship that can’t be given by any other kind of animal. However, this doesn’t mean to say that some people do not let their cats or another pets sleep with them too.

It is made easier too by dogs having a sleep pattern that is very much like our own. Dogs usually trust their owners completely, which makes them a bit more relaxed during the night. This explains why most dogs fall asleep easily and later on, enter into a deep sleep where REM sleep activities can occur. In fact, once a dog enters this stage, the owner may need to call them several times before they can truly be roused from sleep.

I’m sure, many of us have already seen a dog paddling during sleep or at times, barking with his eyes closed. These dogs are believed to be dreaming. Breathing patterns can also be observed among dogs. For example, there are breeds which breathe more heavily while there are those who breathe very lightly. The heavy breathers are much more prone to snoring than those who do not breathe as heavily.

Often, dogs that snore can be rather a nuisance during the night, depending on the degree and frequency of the phenomenon. Like with humans, there are various reasons why dogs snore, although most deal with the obstruction of the passage of air in the throat, which in turn is caused by the collapse of certain areas along the throat. It is the same problem as with humans.

A dog that snores very badly ought to be checked for various issues to determine which treatment can be best applied. Some dogs are especially prone to specific allergic reactions that cause obstruction in the airway. It may also be that there is some excess tissue in the areas that are inhibiting correct breathing. It is best if a veterinarian checks on various factors through careful evaluation of the dog’s anatomical features and general physical symptoms.

Is you dog overweight? I ask this because, like with humans, obese dogs are more likely to snore than thin ones. This is because they will have more flesh surrounding their windpipes. Therefore, they have excess fat hanging around their throats, which can cause blockages. Once this problem has been fixed, the chances of snoring will be reduced. This would not only be healthy for your dogs, but you may eventually enjoy a decent night’s sleep too.

The facial features of the dog in general affect the amount of snoring too. For example, some dogs have pushed-in faces which restricts their nasal passages to a greater or lesser degree. The construction of their nasal passages also largely contributes to their difficulty of breathing. They are very much like humans with a cold, who have to breathe using only twenty-five percent of their nostril capacity. Dog breeds with shorter faces need to expend lots of effort to breathe properly. It costs them more effort to breathe and they are also more likely to snore loudly.

Minor surgery can give your dog great relief. However, be certain that, before you take any decision, you are well educated about the potential risks and consequences of surgery to stop your dog snoring. Most procedures are irreversible, so careful thought should be given to any operation you permit. In fact, it is best to accept the guidelines offered by your veterinary surgeon.

Does your dog need training? If you need more details on dogs in general, then go over to our website entitled Successful Dog Training. This article, Why Do Dogs Snore? has free reprint rights.

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