We all know that it is not unusual for pet owners to permit 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 facilitated too by dogs having a sleep pattern that is very similar to our own. Dogs usually 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 fact, once a dog enters this stage, the owner may need to call them several times before they can truly be woken up.
For sure, many of us have already observed a dog paddling during sleep or at times, barking with his eyes closed. These dogs are said to be dreaming. Breathing patterns can also be observed among dogs. For instance, there are breeds which breathe more heavily while there are those who breathe very lightly. The heavy breathers are much more prone to snoring than those who do not breathe as heavily.
Some people find that dogs that snore are rather a nuisance during the night, depending on the degree and frequency of the phenomenon. Like with humans, there are several considerations why dogs snore, although most deal with the obstruction of the passage of air in the throat, which in turn is caused by the collapse of certain areas along the throat. It is the same problem as with human beings.
A dog that snores very badly ought to be checked for various issues to evaluate which treatment can be best provided. Some dogs are especially prone to some allergic reactions that cause obstruction in the airway. It may also be that there is some excess tissue in the areas that are inhibiting proper breathing. It is best if a veterinarian checks on various factors through careful evaluation of the dog’s anatomical features and general physical symptoms.
Is you dog overweight? I ask this because, like with humans, obese dogs are more likely to snore than thin ones. This is because they will have more tissue surrounding their throats. Therefore, they have excess fat hanging around their throats, which can cause obstructions. Once this problem has been fixed, the chances of snoring will be decreased. This would not only be good for your dogs, but you may eventually enjoy a decent night’s 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 in 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 costs them more work to control breathing and they are also more prone to snoring.
Minor surgery can give 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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