How to stop dog snoring?

If your dog snores loudly during sleep, it can be quite disconcerting for owners, particularly if the snoring is new or has become noticeably worse. While occasional snoring is common and usually harmless, persistent or loud snoring in dogs can sometimes indicate an underlying health issue that is worth investigating. This guide covers the most common causes of snoring in dogs, which breeds are most affected, and when to consult a vet.

Why Do Dogs Snore?

Snoring occurs when airflow through the nose or throat is partially obstructed during sleep, causing the surrounding tissues to vibrate. The causes in dogs are broadly similar to those in humans, though certain dog breeds are at significantly higher risk due to their anatomy.

Common Causes of Snoring in Dogs

Brachycephalic Anatomy

Brachycephalic breeds — those with flat or short faces — are by far the most likely to snore. The physical characteristics associated with brachycephaly, including narrowed nostrils (stenotic nares), an elongated soft palate, and a narrowed windpipe (hypoplastic trachea), all contribute to restricted airflow. This is known collectively as brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), and snoring is one of the most common signs. Breeds at high risk include the French Bulldog, English Bulldog, Pug, Shih Tzu, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Boxer, and Boston Terrier.

Sleep Position

Just as in humans, the position a dog sleeps in can affect whether it snores. Dogs lying on their backs are more likely to snore than those on their sides, as this position can allow the soft palate to fall backwards and partially block the airway.

Obesity

Excess weight leads to fat deposits around the throat and neck, which can narrow the airway and increase the likelihood of snoring. Maintaining a healthy body weight is beneficial for overall health and can reduce snoring in overweight dogs.

Allergies and Upper Respiratory Conditions

Allergies, hay fever, or upper respiratory infections can cause inflammation and swelling in the nose, throat, or airways, leading to snoring. If your dog’s snoring seems seasonal or accompanied by sneezing, nasal discharge, or eye irritation, allergies may be involved.

Foreign Body or Polyp

Occasionally, snoring can be caused by a foreign object lodged in the nasal passage, or by a nasal polyp or growth. This is more likely if the snoring is sudden in onset or accompanied by noisy breathing through the nose.

When Should You See a Vet?

You should consult a vet if your dog’s snoring is new or suddenly much worse, is accompanied by laboured breathing or open-mouth breathing while at rest, is associated with episodes of gagging or retching, causes your dog to wake frequently during sleep, or is paired with exercise intolerance or blue-tinged gums. In brachycephalic breeds, worsening snoring and breathing difficulty can indicate that BOAS is progressing and that surgical intervention to widen the nostrils or shorten the soft palate may be beneficial.