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Causes of Snoring in Dogs
It is not unusual to see pet owners let their pets sleep
with them at night. In fact, 1/3 of pet owners have at some point, allowed their pets to sleep on their beds. Dogs
provide a companionship that can't be given by any other breed of animal. But this doesn't mean that it is unlikely
for some to let their cats and other pets sleep with them.
Dogs have a sleep pattern that is much like ours. Dogs often resign with complete trust on their masters, which
make them a bit more relaxed during the night. This explains why most dogs fall to sleep more easily and later on,
enter into deep sleep where REM sleep activities can occur.
In fact, once dogs enter this stage, the owner needs to shake them heavily before they are actually roused from
sleep.
For sure, many of us have already witnessed a dog paddling during sleep or at times, barks with eyes closed. These
dogs are said to be dreaming.
Breathing patterns can also be observed among dogs. There are breeds which deliver heavier breathing while there
are those who breathe very lightly. The heavy breathers are more prone to snoring than those who do not breathe as
heavily.
Dogs who snore can be quite a nuisance during the night, depending on the degree and frequency of the occurrence of
this phenomenon.
Like with humans, there are various considerations as to why dogs snore. Most though deal with the obstruction
of the air passage which causes the collision of certain parts along the throat area that in turn, leads to
collapse of these parts.
A snoring dog must be checked for various causes to determine which treatment can be best applied. Some dogs are
especially prone to specific allergic reactions that cause the constriction in the airway. It may also be that
there is some excess tissue found in this area that inhibits proper breathing. It is best if a veterinarian checks
on various factors through careful evaluation of the dog's anatomical features and general symptoms.
Or probably, 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. Thus, they have excess tissues that dangle along the
throat which can potentially cause the obstructions.
Once this problem is corrected, the risks of developing snores will be decreased. This would not only be healthy
for your dogs, you may actually enjoy nights of quiet tunes.
Snoring also lies with the general face features. Dogs all seem to have pushed-in faces which narrows their air
passages to a certain degree. The construction of their nasal passages also largely contribute to the difficulty of
breathing. They are like humans who are forced to breathe using only twenty-five percent of their actual nostrils.
Dog breeds with shorter faces need lots of effort to maximize their nostrils. It takes them more hard work to
control breathing and they are more prone to snoring.
Minor surgery can provide your dog great relief. Be sure though that before any decision is made, you are well
educated with the potential risks and consequences of surgery for dog snoring. Most are actually irreversible so
careful analysis must be rendered. It is best to follow the guidelines provided by your veterinarian.
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