Why Dogs Snore

We all know that it is not unusual for pet owners to allow their pets to sleep with them at night. In fact, one third of pet owners have at some time, permitted their pets to sleep on their beds. Dogs provide a companionship that can’t be given by any other kind of animal. However, this doesn’t mean to say that some people 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 often 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, enter into a deep sleep where REM sleep activities can occur. In deed, once a dog enters this stage, the owner may need to call them several times before they can truly be woken up.

For sure, lots of us have already seen a dog paddling during sleep and, 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 instance, 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.

Some people find that dogs that snore are quite a nuisance during the night, depending on the degree and frequency of the phenomenon. Like with humans, there are various reasons why dogs snore, although most deal with the blocking of the passage of air in the windpipe, which in turn is caused by the collapse of certain areas along the throat. It is the same problem as with human beings.

A snoring dog ought to be checked for various issues to determine which treatment can be best applied. Some dogs are especially prone to specific allergic reactions that cause constriction in the airway. It may also be that there is some excess tissue in the areas that are inhibiting correct breathing. It is best if a veterinarian checks on different factors through careful evaluation of the dog’s anatomical features and general physical symptoms.

Maybe, your dog is overweight. Like with humans, obese dogs are more likely to snore during the night. This is because they have more flesh surrounding their throats. Therefore, they have excess tissue that hangs around the throat which can potentially cause the 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 nights of restful sleep too.

Snoring also has something to do with the general facial features. Some dogs seem to have pushed-in faces which narrows their air passages to a certain 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 are forced 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 takes them more work to control breathing and they are also more prone to snoring.

Minor surgery can afford your dog great relief. Be sure though that before any decision is made, you are well educated about the potential risks and consequences of surgery to stop a dog snoring. Most are irreversible, so careful thought must be given to any operation you allow. In fact it is best to follow the guidelines provided by your veterinarian.

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