Why Your Dog is Snoring: Understanding the 8 Common Causes

Does your furry friend turn into a snore machine every night? While often a benign quirk, snoring in dogs can sometimes signal health issues that need attention. At Acacia Pet Hospital, we believe in educating pet owners about possible causes of their dog’s snoring, helping them make informed decisions about their pet’s health.

What Causes My Dog to Snore?

When your dog snores, vibrations occur in the tissues within its nose, mouth, or throat due to airflow being partially blocked. This can be due to a variety of reasons:

1. Upper Respiratory Infection: Like humans, dogs can snore more when dealing with a cold or respiratory infection due to nasal congestion.
2. Obesity: Extra weight can lead to additional tissue around the neck and throat, making snoring more likely.
3. Allergies: Allergic reactions can cause swelling in the nasal passages, reducing airflow and leading to snoring.
4. Sleep Position: If your dog sleeps on its back, its tongue might block the throat and cause snoring.
5. Abscessed Tooth: Infection and swelling from a tooth abscess can impede airflow and result in snoring.
6. Hypothyroidism: This condition, where not enough thyroid hormone is produced, can also lead to snoring among other symptoms.
7. Breed Characteristics: Brachycephalic breeds, such as pugs and bulldogs, are more prone to snoring due to their shorter airways.
8. Obstructions: Any blockage in your pet’s airway, whether a growth or a foreign object, can cause snoring.

Addressing the Issue of Snoring in Dogs

Simple measures like changing your dog’s sleeping position or managing its weight can significantly reduce snoring. For more persistent issues, consult our doctors at Acacia Pet Hospital. We can assist with weight management plans, treat infections, and manage conditions like hypothyroidism with appropriate medications.

If allergies are the culprit, consider adjusting your home environment. Regular cleaning, air filters, and humidifiers can reduce allergens and ease your dog’s breathing.

For breeds predisposed to snoring, maintaining a healthy weight and monitoring during respiratory illnesses are key. In severe cases, surgical options to improve airflow may be discussed.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your dog’s snoring is a new development, or if it’s accompanied by other symptoms of distress, it’s important to get professional advice. Sudden onset of snoring or changes in breathing patterns warrant a thorough examination by our veterinary team.

Connect With Us

Are you concerned about your dog’s snoring? Schedule an appointment with Acacia Pet Hospital for a comprehensive evaluation. Our expert team is here to ensure your pet’s health and comfort.

For more information, visit us at Acacia Pet Hospital, acaciapetclinic.com or call us at (408) 264-6354. We are located at 4486 Pearl Ave, San Jose, CA 95136. 

Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.