My pet is a lab/blue heeler...

Question
My pet is a lab/blue heeler mix. Wt.85 # age 10 yrs. male/neut.
This winter the animal became ill with breathing problems.  He also  had problems moving, very stiff, especially the hind quarters, and front right shoulder. Most days he seemed in a daze. The local Veterinarian did blood work. No infection was evident, but an anti-inflamitory was prescribed.  This medicine helped, in that he could move, had an appitite, and seemed almost like his old self.  Now, I am noticing more "loud" breathing. This is not snoring, he is wide awake.  It doesn't seem to matter how he lays. He has adog bed, is kept in the house at night as it is very cold here. There is no runny nose, the eyes are clear. Body temp is normal. Could there be an obstruction of some nature in his throat?Thank you, L. Potter

Answer
Was his thyroid level checked?  Underactive thyroid can sometimes cause paralysis of the laryngeal tissue will lead to loud breathing.  Or the nerve function to the laryngx could be compromised by a foreign body or tumor or for some unknown reason.  I would recommend having him sedated for a laryngeal exam and chest x-rays.