dog panting

Question
we have just recently acquired a 3 mo male boxer. we noticed that he has started breathing heavier, but mostly at night. it sounds like he has congestion, too. what advice do you have to help his discomfort.  he snores loudly.  thanks for your assistance.

Answer
Hi Rose,

This may just be a "Boxer thing". Puppies often breathe fast and heavy, especially if they're dreaming, and snoring is not at all uncommon in Boxers. A vet check isn't a bad idea, though, just to be sure. It will also let you know if he really is congested, if he has a fever or signs of in infectious disease, or if he has a structural abnormality like an elongated soft palate that might be causing some breathing irregularity.

Good luck!