My dog ​​snores: Causes, treatment & tips for peaceful nights

Introduction

When your dog snores, many dog ​​owners initially acknowledge it with a smile. A deeply breathing, sleeping dog seems peaceful, and its snoring almost cute. But what if the snoring suddenly gets louder, persists, or becomes more frequent throughout the day?

In many cases, snoring is harmless—but it can also be a sign of structural or functional respiratory problems. This guide will help you better identify the causes and decide when a visit to the veterinarian is necessary.

What happens when a dog snores? – Physiology & Mechanisms

Snoring occurs when turbulent air flows through constricted upper airways, causing soft tissues such as the soft palate or the lateral walls of the throat to vibrate. This typically occurs during sleep, when muscle tone physiologically decreases.

Unlike humans, pharyngeal and nasal breathing play a particularly important role in dogs, as dogs are nasal breathers. A slight constriction in one of these areas can lead to noticeable breathing noises—especially in dog breeds with narrow nasal passages or soft palates.

Common causes – Why does my dog ​​snore?

1. Race-related anatomy (brachycephalic syndrome)

Short-headed dogs (brachycephalic breeds) such as pugs, bulldogs, Boston terriers or Shih Tzus have a very shortened skull shape with:

• Narrow nostrils (stenotic nares)
• Elongated, soft palate
• Too narrow larynx area (laryngeal collapse)
• Hypoplastic trachea (too narrow a trachea)

These congenital characteristics often lead to snoring-like noises at a young age – both during sleep and during daytime stress.

Important: Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) is a serious condition that can cause long-term damage to the heart and lungs.

2. Sleeping position

Posture has a significant impact on the airway. Dogs that sleep on their backs shift the soft palate tissue backward. This can temporarily block the upper airway and lead to loud snoring.

Tip: Support a side or stomach sleeping position with an orthopedic dog bed or an elevated headrest.

3. Overweight (obesity)

Fat deposits in the throat, around the trachea, or in the chest area lead to breathing resistance. Pressure on the airways increases particularly when lying on your back. The risk of sleep apnea-like conditions increases with body fat percentage.

Studies show that even a 10% weight reduction can lead to a significant improvement in breathing quality.

4. Inflammation & infections of the upper respiratory tract

Acute or chronic rhinitis, tonsillitis, or pharyngitis caused by bacteria or viruses (e.g., canine parainfluenza virus) can cause swelling of the mucous membranes. Irritants such as cigarette smoke or house dust are also common triggers.

5. Allergies (e.g., atopic dermatitis with nasal involvement)

Allergic reactions lead to the release of histamine, swelling of the mucous membranes, and increased secretions. With seasonal allergies (e.g., grass pollen), dogs often snore, especially in spring or summer.

6. Foreign body

An inhaled blade of grass, dust particle, or small branch can become lodged in the nasopharynx. In addition to snoring, dogs often exhibit:

• Sneeze
• Shaking your head
• Unilateral nasal discharge
• tickly cough

7. Mycoses (e.g. aspergillosis)

Fungal infections of the paranasal sinuses (especially in dolichocephalic breeds such as Collies or German Shepherds) can cause chronic snoring with purulent, sometimes bloody nasal discharge.

8. Neoplasms & Polyps

Tumors (e.g., adenocarcinomas, lymphomas) or benign polyps in the nose, paranasal sinuses, or pharynx block the air passage. Affected dogs not only snore but usually also have:

• Reduced appetite
• One-sided (!) nasal discharge
• weight loss
• Shortness of breath during exertion

9. Cardiopulmonary diseases

Chronic heart failure (e.g. mitral valve endocardiosis), tracheal collapse (common in small breeds) or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can increase snoring – especially when lying down.

10. Reverse sneezing

Often confused with snoring, it is actually a sudden breathing reaction caused by irritation of the soft palate or nasopharynx. It sounds like a loud inhalation through the nose but is usually harmless.

When is snoring dangerous? – Recognizing warning signs

Not all snoring is pathological. However, you should take the following symptoms seriously:

• Snoring occurs suddenly or becomes significantly worse
• Persistent snoring even during the day
• Shortness of breath, increased panting, gagging
• Coughing, wheezing, reverse sneezing
• Bloody or purulent nasal discharge
• Reduced resilience, weakness
• Refusal to eat, fever

Diagnostics at the vet – How to find the cause

A snoring dog should be examined if symptoms appear suddenly or worsen. The veterinarian may initiate the following steps:

1. Medical history

• Duration, frequency and intensity of snoring
• Sleeping position, changes, other symptoms

2. General clinical examination

• Auscultation of heart and lungs
• Assessment of the oral cavity, nose and throat

3. Endoscopy / Rhinoscopy

• Direct visualization of the nasopharynx
• Removal of foreign bodies or tissue samples (biopsy)

4. Imaging techniques

• X-ray: for trachea, heart, lungs
• CT/MRI: if tumors, polyps or BOAS are suspected

5. Laboratory diagnostics

• Blood count (inflammation, infection, organs)
• Smears (bacteria, fungi, cytology)

Treatment options – What to do if your dog snores?

The therapy always depends on the underlying cause:

1. Medication for infections or allergies

If snoring is due to an upper respiratory infection or an allergic reaction , different medications are used:

• Antibiotics are prescribed for bacterial infections, such as purulent rhinitis or tonsillitis.
• Antiviral medications are less frequently necessary because viral infections are usually self-limiting – symptomatic therapy is the priority.
• In cases of allergies, antihistamines can help reduce swelling of the mucous membranes.
• Cortisone preparations (e.g. prednisolone) have a stronger anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effect, but should only be used for a short period of time.

Decongestant nasal sprays , special inhalations with saline or chamomile , and the use of humidifiers can also

Note: Self-treatment with human medicinal products is not recommended – dosage and tolerability vary considerably in dogs!

2. Antifungals for fungal infections

If mycosis of the nasal cavity—e.g., aspergillosis—is confirmed, targeted antifungal therapy is required. Drugs such as itraconazole , voriconazole , or clotrimazole administered either systemically or locally.

Local treatment is often performed by rinsing or inserting the antifungal agent directly into the nasal cavity (e.g., via a catheter under anesthesia). This method is particularly effective when the fungus is localized.

Systemic therapies are usually lengthy (several weeks to months) and require regular monitoring of liver values, as antifungals can have hepatotoxic effects.

Tip: Fungal infections are often associated with one-sided nasal discharge and loss of smell. Early diagnosis significantly increases the chances of recovery.

3. Weight reduction for overweight people

Obesity is one of the most common preventable causes of snoring in dogs. Fat deposits not only under the skin but also in the neck and throat area , where it mechanically compresses the airways.

Weight reduction is ideally carried out under veterinary supervision :

• Adjusting the feed quantity (reduction by 10–20% of the daily ration)
• Switching to low-calorie diet foods
• Increase exercise depending on fitness level
• If necessary, support with appetite suppressants or supplements (only after medical advice)

just 10% weight can significantly improve breathing and reduce snoring. It also reduces the risk of other diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, and heart problems.

Important: No radical diets – slow, continuous weight loss is safer and more sustainable for dogs.

4. Surgical corrections in brachycephalic breeds

In dogs with brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), surgery is often the only option to permanently reduce snoring and improve quality of life.

Typical interventions are:

• Dilation of the nostrils (stenotic nares): More air can flow in, the resistance decreases.
• Shortening of the soft palate : Prevents it from falling into the trachea during breathing.
• Tonsillectomy (removal of the tonsils): Useful for severely enlarged tonsils.
• Correction of laryngeal collapse : necessary in severe cases, but associated with higher risks.

These procedures are performed under anesthesia by specialized veterinarians or clinics. Careful postoperative monitoring is essential, as swelling and bleeding may occur.

Conclusion: Early surgical interventions – ideally in young adulthood – offer brachycephalic dogs not only quieter nights but also longer, healthier lives .

5. Removal of foreign bodies, polyps or tumors

If snoring is caused by a foreign body , a polyp or a neoplasm in the upper respiratory tract, surgical or endoscopic intervention required.

Proceed:

• Foreign bodies (e.g. blades of grass, wood splinters) can be removed under brief sedation or anesthesia using a rhinoscope.
• Polyps – usually benign mucosal growths – are completely surgically removed to prevent recurrence.
• Depending on their location and malignancy, tumors

In addition, the removed tissue is usually sent for histopathological examination to confirm the diagnosis and assess the prognosis.

Important: In older dogs with chronic snoring and one-sided (!) nasal discharge, tumors should be considered early on – the earlier they are discovered, the better the treatment options.

6. Humidification and smoke-free environment

An often underestimated but very effective measure to alleviate snoring is improving the air quality in the living space.

Dry air , especially in heated indoor spaces, irritates the respiratory tract and promotes mucous membrane irritation. A humidifier (e.g., ultrasonic or vaporizer) can maintain a constant humidity of 40–60% —ideal for your dog's respiratory system.

Tobacco smoke also be consistently avoided, as they irritate the mucous membranes and promote inflammation.

Also helpful:

• Regular vacuuming with HEPA filter
• Air purifier with activated carbon filter against pollen, dust and odors
• Avoid drafts directly at the sleeping place

Tip: A comfortable, well-ventilated sleeping area with a slightly elevated head position not only improves breathing but also promotes sleep quality.

FAQ – Frequently asked questions about “dog snoring”

Summary: When your dog snores – causes, meaning & help

If your dog snores , it's usually a harmless, sometimes even charming, noise. But what seems cute at first glance can be a sign of health problems. Especially if your dog snores without having made any noises beforehand, it's worth taking a closer look.

In many cases, it's normal for a dog to snore , for example, when deeply relaxed or sleeping on its back. For anatomical reasons, some breeds snore more frequently: If a dog snores that belongs to the short-headed (brachycephalic) breeds, such as a pug, bulldog, or Shih Tzu, it's often due to what's known as BOAS syndrome.

It becomes problematic when a dog snores and also exhibits symptoms such as nasal discharge, coughing, or shortness of breath. If the dog snores and suddenly appears quieter, weaker, or lacks appetite, a veterinary examination is urgently recommended. There are numerous conditions in which a dog snores because the airways are narrowed, inflamed, or blocked.

A common reason a dog snores is obesity. Fat accumulation in the throat narrows the airways – especially when lying on its back, the dog snores significantly louder. An allergic reaction can also cause a dog to snore because the mucous membranes swell and airflow is obstructed.

If a dog snores despite previously breathing calmly, a foreign object such as a blade of grass may be lodged in the nose or throat. In such cases, the dog snores suddenly, irregularly, or with sneezing and gagging. In rare cases, the dog snores because a tumor or polyp is growing in the upper respiratory tract and disrupting airflow.

Infections of the upper respiratory tract, such as those caused by viruses or bacteria, also often cause dogs to snore . The inflamed mucous membranes cause constrictions in the nasopharynx, causing the dog to snore , especially when inhaling.

When an older dog snores , special attention is required. Age-related changes in tissue, chronic inflammation, or heart disease can cause the dog to snore , even during rest periods. At the same time, the body's ability to compensate for such breathing problems decreases.

Reverse sneezing is a very unique phenomenon. It sounds similar, but instead of snoring , the dog suddenly inhales air forcefully through its nose – usually harmless, but often frightening. A reverse sneeze is often misinterpreted because it is very similar to the typical sound of a dog snoring .

Depending on the cause, there are various treatment options. If a dog snores due to an infection or allergy, medication often helps. If the dog is overweight, targeted weight loss is important – if the dog snores because its throat tissue is too padded, even a small diet can have a big impact.

In some cases, only surgery can help, for example, if the dog snores due to an elongated soft palate or narrowed nostrils. Especially in short-headed breeds, surgery can significantly reduce or even eliminate snoring

Dog owners shouldn't immediately panic if their dog snores . It's important to carefully observe when the dog snores , how loudly, how regularly, and whether any other abnormalities are present. It can be helpful to keep a snoring diary: What sleeping position does the dog have? How often does it snore? Are there any other symptoms?

In practice, it's clear that if a dog snores , it's definitely worth taking a closer look. Even if the snoring starts off harmlessly, there may be a serious underlying cause. On the other hand, it's just as possible that the dog is simply snoring because it's soundly asleep after an active day.

In short: A dog doesn't snore without reason—whether it's due to an anatomical abnormality, a reaction to environmental factors, or the first sign of an illness. Therefore, it's always important to examine the individual dog's snoring behavior , its behavior, and whether the noise changes. The sooner action is taken, the better the chances of recovery—and the more peaceful the nights will be for both dog and owner.

Further information:

https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/snoring-in-dogs