The Reasons Why Dogs Snore

We all know that it is not unusual for pet owners to allow their pets to sleep with them on their beds at night. In fact, one third of pet owners have at some time, permitted their pets to sleep on their beds. Dogs readily provide a companionship that can’t be shown by any other breed of animal. However, this doesn’t mean to say that cat owners 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, go 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 too. These dogs are said to be dreaming. Breathing patterns can also be observed among dogs while they are asleep. For example, there are breeds which breathe heavily and there are breeds which breathe more lightly. The heavy breathers are much more likely to snore than those which do not breathe as heavily.

Dogs which snore can be quite a nuisance during the night, depending on the degree and frequency of the occurrence of this phenomenon. Like with humans, there are various reasons why dogs snore. Most though have to do with the obstruction of the passage of air in the throat caused by the collapse of certain areas along the throat. The same as in humans.

A dog that snores very loudly ought to be examined for different issues to see which treatment could be best provided. Some dogs are especially susceptible to some allergies that can cause constriction in the windpipe. It may also be that there is some excess tissue in the areas that are inhibiting proper breathing. It is best for a veterinarian to check out different factors through careful evaluation of the dog’s anatomical features and physical symptoms in general.

Is you dog obese? I ask this because, like with humans, obese dogs are more likely to snore than thin ones. This is because they have more flesh surrounding their throats. Therefore, they have excess tissue hanging around the throat which can potentially cause obstructions. Once this problem is corrected, the risk of snoring will be decreased. This would not only be healthy for your dogs, you may actually enjoy a decent night’s sleep too.

The general facial features of the dog affect the amount of snoring too. Some dogs seem to have pushed-in faces which narrows their air passages to a greater or lesser degree. The construction of their nasal passages also largely contributes to their difficulty of breathing. They are pretty 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 prone to snoring.

Minor surgery can afford 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 allow. In fact, it is best to follow the recommendations offered by your veterinary surgeon.

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