Why does my dog’s breathing sound like snoring?
What does noisy breathing in dogs mean?
As pet parents, we’ve all heard some pretty strange sounds coming from our dogs — most of the time, it’s nothing to worry about. But if your pup has a noisy breathing problem, either in the daytime during their sleep, that’s not something you should just brush off. Let’s take a closer look at what’s going on, why it happens, and what you can do to help your furry friend breathe easy. 
Hearing your dog struggle with noisy breathing can be unsettling — not just because of the sound itself, but also because of how they react while it’s happening. It’s not something any pet parent wants to see.
Medically, this kind of breathing trouble falls into two categories: stertor and stridor. Stertor sounds more like snoring or gasping, while stridor has a harsher, wheezing or vibrating quality. Stridor mostly happens when your dog inhales, but it can occur on the exhale too.
So, what’s behind these strange dog snoring noises? Abnormal breathing happens when air flows through areas that aren’t working quite as they should—whether due to illness or other issues. The five key areas involved include:

  • Nares and nasal cavity: The nose openings, the nasal cavity, and internal nares that open to the pharynx.
  • Nasopharynx: Connects the windpipe with the pharynx above the soft palate.
  • Pharynx: Connects the mouth and the nasal passages with the esophagus.
  • Larynx: Connects the pharynx to the trachea, and is also known as the voice box. 
  • Trachea: Commonly called the windpipe, this connects the larynx to the lungs.
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Symptoms of noisy breathing in dogs
Noisy breathing can show up in all sorts of ways, and the reasons behind your dog’s raspy sounds can range from minor issues to more serious concerns. No matter what, it’s always best to check in with your vet if you notice any changes in your pup’s breathing patterns – better safe than sorry when it comes to your furry friend’s health!
Here are the most common symptoms:


Your dog may show no signs while they’re resting, and only breathe noisily during exertion. They might even make the noises all of the time.
 
When to see a vet
Noisy breathing can be a sign of all sorts of medical issues. Whether it’s something your dog was born with or a problem that’s developed over time, breathing abnormalities often point to an underlying respiratory concern. That’s definitely something worth checking out with your vet.
If your pup is making choking sounds, wheezing, or showing clear signs of distress, don’t wait. Reach out to a vet right away to make sure they get the care they need.

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Causes of noisy breathing in dogs
If your dog’s breathing sounds off, you’ll want to get to the bottom of it. The tricky part? There could be a lot of reasons behind it. Some dogs are born with certain breathing issues (congenital), while others develop them over time due to illness or trauma.
Figuring out the cause starts with pinpointing where in their body the problem is coming from. Once you’ve got that, you can dig deeper to understand what’s really going on. 
Here are some of the most common culprits in different areas of their body:

Nares and nasal cavity
This is your dog’s nostrils and the hollow space behind the nostrils where the airflow is directed. Problems here can be:

  • Neoplasia. This can be new, uncontrolled tissue growth. Also covers tumors and cancer.
  • Foreign bodies that may have got stuck inside your dog’s nose somehow.
  • Collapsed nostrils (stenotic nares). A narrowing of the nostrils, especially prevalent in dogs with ‘squashed up faces’.
  • Chronic nasal disease, such as rhinitis.

Nasopharynx
This is the uppermost part of the throat, a tube located behind the nose and above the soft palate that connects the nasal cavity to the rest of the pharynx. Neoplasia and foreign bodies can also be causes of this, as well as:
  • Nasopharyngeal stenosis. A narrowing of the nasal passage that results in poor airflow when the mouth is closed.
  • Polyps. These are pink growths in a dog’s nose, some of which are benign and some of which can be cancerous.

Pharynx
These are the walls of your dog’s throat. Pharyngitis is the result of swelling in this area of the throat.
  • Abscess. Often the result of an infection – look out for areas of redness.
  • Tonsillar prolapse. An uncommon tonsillitis-like condition in dogs.
  • Retropharyngeal lymphadenopathy. This is an enlargement at the back of a dog’s throat.
  • Soft palate elongation. These are abnormalities in the soft tissues at the back of your pooch’s mouth.

Larynx
The main role of the larynx is to block off the lungs when your dog is eating or drinking, and to open their windpipe wider when they need to take a deep breath.

  • Laryngeal paralysis. Breeds congenitally prone to this condition include Bouvier des Flandres, Dalmatian, Siberian Husky, Bulldog and Bull Terrier, while  breeds prone to acquire the paralysis are Saint Bernard, Great Pyrenees, Labrador Retriever, Irish Setter and Great Dane.
  • Laryngeal collapse. This happens when the muscles in your dog’s voice box weaken or become paralyzed, either due to genetics or something they’ve developed over time. As a result, the cartilage that those muscles support collapses inward, making it harder for them to breathe properly.
  • Everted laryngeal saccules. The laryngeal saccules are small, soft tissue masses that extend from the laryngeal ventricles in your dog’s larynx. They play a role in keeping the vocal cords lubricated and enhancing the sound of vocalization. But when things go wrong, these saccules can contribute to airway disease or even lead to obstruction, making it harder for your pup to breathe properly.

Trachea
The trachea (or windpipe) is the tube that connects a dog’s throat to their lungs.
  • Tracheal stenosis. This can happen if your dog’s windpipe becomes narrow or constricted.
  • Tracheal collapse (tracheal loss of rigidity and prevention of airflow to the lungs, often seen in Yorkshire Terriers, Poodles and Pomeranians)
  • Foreign objects. This refers to anything that can accidentally get stuck inside your dog’s nose

This condition is caused by deformities in your dogs’ upper airway and is common among dog breeds with short noses. Breeds more prone to noisy breathing are the Bulldog, Shih Tzu, Pekingese, Chow Chow, Pug, Lhasa Apso, Boxer, Shar Pei, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, French Bulldog, and the Boston Terrier.
 
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Diagnosis of noisy breathing in dogs
When taking your dog to the vet for an examination, keeping them as calm as possible is a huge help. Of course, that’s easier said than done — but if your pup is already stressed, it makes it tougher for the vet to get a clear picture of what’s going on.
You can also make things easier by giving your vet plenty of information. Share any changes you’ve noticed, like differences in their bark, energy levels, or willingness to exercise.
And don’t forget to mention any recent accidents or traumas your dog has had. Once your vet can assess your furry friend, here’s how they’ll go about diagnosing the issue.

Tests to determine the underlying cause

Stethoscope
Your vet will start by using a stethoscope to tune in to your dog’s breathing. Certain sounds can hint at whether there’s an obstruction or an abnormality affecting their airways.

Radiographs
X-rays of the head, neck, lungs, and chest can reveal a lot. Sometimes, an elongated palate or a polyp on the windpipe will show up, helping to pinpoint the issue.
 
Advanced imaging
If needed, the vet may turn to ultrasounds or CT scans for a clearer picture of what’s causing those snore-like sounds in your pup’s breathing.
 
Running lab tests
A full blood count, biochemical profile and urinalysis can provide more clues about any underlying conditions affecting your dog’s respiratory system.
 
Performing specialized exams
In more complex cases, if necessary, the vet may consider a pharyngoscopy or laryngoscopy. They will only do so if the risk of complications, like airway collapse, is low.
Treatment of noisy breathing in dogs
If your dog’s showing signs of noisy breathing, it’s crucial to get it checked out – especially if there’s a risk of respiratory collapse or complications like hyperthermia, aspiration pneumonia, or ongoing regurgitation.
Sometimes, surgery is the best option to fix the problem. If your pup has an elongated soft palate, for instance, a vet can shorten it to help them breathe easier. Other treatments might involve removing obstructive polyps, widening the nasal openings, or getting rid of foreign objects causing trouble.
These interventions can make a world of difference for your furry friend’s comfort and overall well-being.

Preventing noisy breathing in dogs

The best way to deal with noisy breathing issues? Stop them before they start. While some conditions can’t be prevented entirely, there are several things you can do at home to help your pup breathe easier and avoid complications. Here are some key steps:
 
Manage your dog’s exercise
Avoid over-exerting your dog, especially in warm or humid weather. During the summer, stick to early morning or evening walks, and build up their stamina gradually to keep them fit without stressing their respiratory system.
 
Follow the vet’s advice
If your vet has given you tips or warnings about your dog’s health, make sure to follow through. Addressing any underlying conditions early can prevent your dog’s breathing issues from worsening.
 
Use a harness
For breeds prone to tracheal collapse using a harness can reduce pressure on the windpipe and make breathing easier.
 
Regular check-ups
Regular visits to the vet can help identify and address potential respiratory issues early. The sooner any issues are caught, the better.
 
Control the temperature
Keep your pup cool and hydrated – especially in hot weather or after exercise. Overheating can make breathing issues much worse.
 
Improve air quality
Use air purifiers and change filters regularly. 
 
Find the best sleeping position for your dog
If your dog has tracheal issues, adjusting their sleeping position can make a difference in how easily they breathe at rest.
 
Think about their environment
Try to keep their home calm to help minimize stress triggers. 
 
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Can a dog recover from the causes of noisy breathing?
If your dog has had surgery, setting up the best possible recovery environment is key. Make sure they have a quiet, cozy spot to rest, and a soft bed can make a world of difference in keeping them comfortable.
Your pup will likely be on pain medication and/or antibiotics for a set period — be sure to follow your vet’s instructions carefully.
You might still hear some noisy breathing even after the operation, but don’t panic! That’s normal, especially if there’s lingering swelling. It may take time for everything to settle back to normal.
Looking ahead, do what you can to support your dog’s exercise and diet routine. They’ll be extra sensitive for a while, so keeping them calm is crucial. Help them avoid overexertion, extreme heat, and stressful environments to give them the best chance at a smooth recovery.  

Noisy Breathing Average Cost
From 367 quotes ranging from $200 - $4,000
Average Cost
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Top
Noisy Breathing Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
Malinois X
Five Weeks

20 found this helpful

20 found this helpful

My pet has the following symptoms:
My puppy started with noisy breathing a couple days ago, sounded like he had mucus stuck in his nose but now he has a runny nose and he’s sneezing. I think he caught a cold but I’m not very sure. He’s 5 weeks old and still hasn’t had his first vaccine. He’s very furry, so he doesn’t like sleeping on his bed with his siblings because it gets hot for him, so he sleeps on the floor. He’s acting normal: eating/drinking, playing, and running around. Is there any reason for concern? We’re keeping an eye on him, but from what I’ve seen he’s doing alright.
Feb. 19, 2021
Answered by Dr. Maureen M. DVM
20 Recommendations
Hello, Sorry about that. The above symptoms indicate either an allergy or a respiratory infection. Please take him to a vet for treatment. If it's a respiratory infection e.g kennel cough he may pass it to his littermates as it's contagious. Good luck
Feb. 20, 2021
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Pit Bull
five months

18 found this helpful

18 found this helpful

My pet has the following symptoms:
When she breathes it sounds like something stuck in her throat. And its loud like you can hear her breathing over her eating.And she seems to try to hack something up a lot. She eats just fine, is active, nothing else seems out of the ordinary.
Jan. 15, 2021
Answered by Dr. Maureen M. DVM
18 Recommendations
Hi, Sorry about this. This could be a respiratory infection commonly known as kennel cough. It's usually treated with a prescribed course of antibiotics. Please visit your vet for a tentative diagnosis and treatment.
Jan. 15, 2021
Was this question and answer helpful?
Noisy Breathing Average Cost
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Average Cost
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