Snoring in brachycephalic dog breeds: an overview

Brachycephalics are one of the cutest dog breeds to die for; ironically, puppies born to these breeds have to face several issues due to birth defects. Life of brachycephalic dog breeds seems to be full of hardships. Being the owner of a short-nosed dog; it is inevitable that you are aware of the different health issues faced by this breed. Snoring is one of the common issues faced by snub-nosed dogs. This blog will detail the different aspects related to snoring in brachycephalic dogs.

Dogs and common breathing patterns

Generally, snoring in dogs is characterised by several factors related to health and routine activities. If your dog is not a usual snorer and if he starts to snore all of a sudden, it would be ideal to take him to a veterinarian for a detailed checkup.  On most of the cases, snoring in dogs is not considered to be a major problem other than just being a harmless nuisance.

Snoring in Brachycephalic dogs

The anatomical deformity in considered to be the main reason why brachycephalic dogs snore. Brachycephalic dogs are born with a smashed-in face and this anatomical structure hardly houses most of the facial physical features. The deformity also leaves them with narrow nostrils that hinder the smooth flow of air in and out of the nostrils. With this prevailing condition, brachycephalic dogs find it extremely difficult to breath when they engage in vigorous physical activities like running, playing etc. The restricted air flow through the nostrils is the dominating factor that contributes to snoring in short-nosed dogs.

Surgery for dog snoring

On some occasions, brachycephalic dog breeds are born with nostrils that are hardly open. Such a condition can pose a serious threat to these breeds in addition to snoring. In such scenarios, a surgical correction is always the ideal choice that can bring your pooch back to normal condition. A soft palate surgery for brachycephalic dogs alleviates the concerns of snoring in these breeds.

What to watch out for

Even when brachycephalic dogs usually exhibit snoring, it is also essential for you to understand that snoring in dogs is also signs of the below listed health hazards.

Fungal infection: dogs affected with fungi like aspergillosis, which is commonly found in mold and grass, can induce snoring in dogs.

Tumours: Tumours that develop in the dog’s nostrils also make it really hard for them to breathe and leads to distorted sleep and snoring patterns.

Dental issues: dogs with irregular or distorted teeth alignment can also snore regularly.

Obesity: Obesity is considered one of the common inducers of snoring in both dogs and humans. Therefore, if your dog seems to be overweight and snores regularly, it is time for you to play an exercise routine for him.

Being a pet parent of a brachycephalic dog it is imperative that you are responsible and can invest a considerable amount of time for the pertinent care. Monitor your dog all the time and the signs like irregular snoring patterns, aggressive snoring or snoring all of a sudden points to the need of taking your loved one to a veterinarian.