7 Effective Ways to Stop Your Dog from Snoring

Snoring can be a common and sometimes disruptive issue for dog owners, but there are ways to reduce or even stop it. Understanding the causes behind your dog’s snoring is the first step toward helping them (and you) get a more restful night’s sleep. This guide shares seven practical and vet-approved strategies to help ease your dog’s snoring, promoting better health and comfort.

1. Manage Your Dog's Weight

Excess weight is a significant contributor to snoring. Overweight dogs experienced by many UK households may have extra fat deposits around their necks, which can compress the airway and lead to noisy breathing during sleep.

Gradually bringing your dog down to a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can reduce airway pressure and ease snoring. Your vet can provide personalised advice on safe weight loss plans for your dog.

2. Opt for Suitable Bedding and Sleeping Positions

Dogs that sleep on their backs tend to snore more because the tongue can slip back, partially blocking the airway. Encourage your dog to sleep curled up or on their side, which helps keep the airway clear.

Choosing an orthopaedic bed or one with raised sides encourages a comfortable curled-up posture. Adding a small pillow to elevate your dog’s head can further open the airways and lessen snoring.

3. Control Environmental Allergens

Allergens like pollen, dust mites, household dust, and pet dander can trigger nasal irritation or mild allergic reactions, worsening snoring. Regularly wash your dog's bedding to minimise these irritants.

Using a HEPA air purifier in your dog’s sleeping area can also improve air quality, filtering out airborne particles and reducing congestion. Avoid smoky environments, as smoke impairs your dog’s breathing and increases snoring risk.

4. Address Other Allergies with Your Vet

Food allergies or sensitivities, although sometimes harder to detect, can also cause sneezing, watery eyes, and airway irritation that may exacerbate snoring. Work closely with your vet to identify and manage these allergies through testing and customised diets.

5. Maintain a Cool, Fresh, and Humidified Sleeping Environment

Hot or stuffy rooms can stifle your dog's breathing and increase snoring. Ensure your dog’s sleeping space is well ventilated with fresh air but not drafty, especially during warmer months.

In dry environments or heated homes, using a humidifier can keep your dog’s nasal passages moist, preventing irritation that contributes to snoring.

6. Surgery for Brachycephalic Breeds

Dogs with short noses and flat faces, such as French bulldog puppies and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppies, are prone to snoring due to their anatomy. In some cases, this can affect their breathing and quality of life.

Your vet may recommend surgical options to correct anatomical obstructions, improving airflow and significantly reducing snoring. Surgery should always be considered a last resort after other measures have been tried.

7. Consult Your Vet for Persistent or New Snoring

If your dog suddenly starts snoring or the noise becomes much worse, it's important to consult the vet. Snoring can sometimes indicate underlying health issues like respiratory infections, nasal polyps, or other obstructions that require medical attention.

Your vet will perform a thorough examination, possibly including imaging or endoscopy, to diagnose the cause and guide appropriate treatment.

Final Thoughts

Snoring in dogs can sometimes be a simple nuisance but may also indicate health concerns. By managing weight, improving sleeping conditions, controlling allergies, and seeking veterinary advice when necessary, you can help your dog breathe easier and enjoy restful sleep. Remember to always promote responsible and ethical care for your dog’s health and wellbeing.