How to Stop Your Dog From Snoring (and When to See a Vet)

Introduction – Snoring Dogs: Adorable or Alarming?

We’ve all been there. You’re just about to drift off into a peaceful sleep when suddenly—GGRRRRRKHHH!—your dog lets out a snore so loud you’re wondering if someone fired up a chainsaw in the living room.

At first, you probably laughed. It’s kind of cute, right? Like, how can such a small creature make such a big sound? Maybe you even took a video and shared it with friends. But fast-forward a few weeks—or months—and now you’re the one yawning all day because your four-legged roommate is keeping you up all night.

So what gives? Is dog snoring just another one of those quirky pet things we learn to live with, like muddy paw prints on the couch or chewed-up socks? Or could it be something more serious?

The truth is, dog snoring can be perfectly normal—or it can be a red flag for an underlying issue. That low rumble might just mean your pup is in a deep, content slumber… or it could mean there’s inflammation, a respiratory problem, or even a structural abnormality that’s making it harder for them to breathe.

This guide breaks it all down for you:
🐶 Why dogs snore in the first place
💤 What you can do to help them breathe easier
🩺 When it’s time to stop Googling and call the vet

Whether your dog’s snores are cute background noise or full-on sleep sabotage, we’ll help you understand what’s going on—and what to do about it. Because let’s face it, everyone in the house deserves a good night’s sleep. Yes, even you.

Why Do Dogs Snore in the First Place?

Just like humans, dogs snore when airflow is partially blocked during sleep. That obstruction causes tissues in the airway to vibrate—voila, snoring. But the reasons behind that obstruction can vary. Here are the most common culprits:

1. Breed Type

Short-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, Boxers, and Shih Tzus are infamous snorers. Their smooshed faces come with narrow nostrils, elongated soft palates, and compact airways—all of which make snoring almost inevitable.

2. Sleeping Position

Some dogs just have bad sleeping posture. If they prefer sleeping on their back, gravity can pull the tongue and soft palate backward, partially blocking the airway.

3. Obesity

Extra body fat—especially around the neck—can put pressure on the airways and worsen snoring. Overweight dogs are at a much higher risk of developing sleep-related breathing issues.

4. Allergies and Irritants

Dust, pollen, smoke, or household cleaners can cause inflammation in your dog’s nasal passages, leading to congestion and noisy sleep.

5. Respiratory Infections

Just like when you get a stuffy nose during a cold, your dog might snore if they’re dealing with an upper respiratory infection. Symptoms usually include sneezing, nasal discharge, and lethargy.

6. Anatomical Abnormalities

Polyps, tumors, or other obstructions in the nasal or throat area can cause snoring—and may need medical intervention.

What You Can Do at Home to Reduce Snoring

If your dog’s snoring is more “annoying roommate” than “health emergency,” these home tips might help you (both) get some better rest:

1. Adjust Their Sleeping Position

Try encouraging your dog to sleep on their side rather than their back. Orthopedic dog beds with side bolsters or memory foam can support healthier sleeping postures.

2. Keep Their Weight in Check

If your dog is a little on the chunky side, trimming down could make a world of difference. Talk to your vet about a healthy diet plan and portion control.

3. Run a Humidifier

Dry air can irritate your dog’s airways. A humidifier in the bedroom can keep things moist and breathing-friendly.

4. Clean Up Allergens

Regularly vacuum your dog’s bedding, use hypoallergenic cleaners, and avoid smoking indoors. Consider using an air purifier, especially during allergy season.

5. Try Nasal Strips or Dog-Safe Decongestants

In some cases, your vet may recommend safe nasal strips or decongestants designed for dogs. Never use human medications without veterinary guidance.

6. Dental Care

Believe it or not, dental problems can contribute to snoring. Brush your dog’s teeth regularly, and don’t skip those professional cleanings.

When You Should Be Concerned

Occasional snoring isn’t usually a big deal—but some signs should make you raise an eyebrow (and probably call your vet):

• Sudden Onset of Snoring: If your dog never snored before and suddenly starts, something may be up.
• Loud, Chronic Snoring: If it’s worsening over time or is especially loud, it could indicate a deeper issue.
• Accompanying Symptoms: Difficulty breathing, coughing, nasal discharge, lethargy, or changes in appetite may signal an infection or obstruction.
• Breeds Prone to Airway Issues: If you have a brachycephalic breed, regular vet check-ups are critical. These dogs often develop worsening airway issues as they age.

Veterinary Options and Treatments

If you’ve tried adjusting your dog’s sleeping habits, cleaning up allergens, and even cutting back on the treats—but the snoring persists or gets worse—it might be time to bring in the professionals. A vet can help pinpoint exactly what’s going on and offer targeted treatment. Here’s what to expect once you step into the clinic:

1. Comprehensive Physical Exam

First things first: your vet will likely start with a thorough physical exam. They’ll check your dog’s nose, throat, mouth, and chest. If your dog is brachycephalic (like a Bulldog or Pug), the vet will assess how narrow the nasal passages are and whether the soft palate is enlarged or floppy—both common culprits of loud snoring.

They’ll also ask questions like:

• When did the snoring start?
• Has it gotten louder or more frequent?
• Are there any other symptoms (coughing, nasal discharge, fatigue, labored breathing)?

Your answers will help narrow down the potential causes.

2. Diagnostic Imaging and Tests

If the physical exam suggests something more complex, your vet may recommend:

• X-rays or CT scans: These help visualize the airways, sinuses, and chest cavity to rule out tumors, polyps, or collapsed trachea.
• Endoscopy: A tiny camera inserted through the nose or throat to get a close-up view of the upper airway.
• Allergy testing: If your dog has chronic congestion or seasonal symptoms, this can help identify triggers.
• Blood work: To rule out systemic infections or inflammation.

These tests can sound intimidating, but they’re often the key to solving the snore mystery once and for all.

3. Medications That Can Help

Depending on the diagnosis, your vet may prescribe medications such as:

• Anti-inflammatories: To reduce swelling in the airways caused by allergies or irritation.
• Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection is clogging up your pup’s nasal passages.
• Antihistamines: For dogs with seasonal allergies, dust sensitivities, or other irritants.
• Bronchodilators: In cases of respiratory distress or airway restriction.

These meds can often reduce or eliminate snoring, especially if the cause is something temporary or treatable.

4. Surgical Interventions (When Necessary)

For certain breeds and conditions, surgery can be life-changing—and sleep-saving. Common surgical options include:

• Soft Palate Resection: Trims the elongated soft palate that can obstruct airflow in brachycephalic breeds.
• Nostril Widening (Stenotic Nares Surgery): Expands the nasal openings to improve airflow.
• Removal of Polyps or Tumors: If any growths are blocking the nasal or throat passages.
• Tonsillectomy: Sometimes oversized tonsils can contribute to snoring or breathing issues.
• Corrective surgery for collapsed trachea or laryngeal paralysis, though these are more involved and less common.

While the word “surgery” might make your heart race, many of these procedures are routine and performed regularly by veterinary specialists. For dogs struggling with severe snoring or breathing issues, the improvement can be immediate and dramatic.

5. Weight Management Plans

If your dog is overweight (even just a little), your vet may prescribe a tailored weight-loss plan. This might include:

• Portion control and calorie tracking
• Prescription weight-management dog food
• Exercise routines or low-impact activities for older dogs

Losing even a few pounds can ease pressure on the airway and dramatically reduce snoring.

6. Follow-Up and Monitoring

Once treatment begins—whether it’s medication, surgery, or lifestyle changes—your vet will want to monitor your dog’s progress. This may involve:

• Re-check appointments
• Progress reports on snoring volume and frequency
• Adjustments to meds or feeding plans
• Occasional follow-up imaging or bloodwork if the cause was more serious

The goal? Long-term comfort and better sleep for both you and your pup.

7. Referrals to Specialists

If your general vet can’t get to the bottom of things, they might refer you to:

• Veterinary Dermatologists for allergy-related snoring
• Veterinary Dentists if dental structure is causing airway issues
• Veterinary Surgeons for more complex airway surgery
• Veterinary Internists or Cardiologists if snoring is tied to heart or systemic issues

Getting expert help ensures your dog gets the best care for their specific problem.

Bottom Line?

Don’t shrug off chronic or worsening snoring—especially if your dog seems uncomfortable, fatigued, or is showing other symptoms. The right treatment could mean better sleep, easier breathing, and a healthier life for your furry companion. And hey, you might finally reclaim your beauty rest, too.

Let me know if you’d like this section condensed into a printable “What to Expect at the Vet” checklist!

Real Stories From Pet Parents

“Bella’s Story – The Power of a Pillow” Bella, a nine-year-old French Bulldog, had snored like a little lawnmower since she was a pup. Her human tried everything—until they swapped out her basic dog bed for a contoured orthopedic one. Suddenly, Bella’s nighttime racket cut in half. Turns out, the slight head elevation made it easier for her to breathe.

“Milo’s Makeover – Losing Pounds, Gaining Zzzs” Milo the Labrador loved treats—a little too much. He put on extra weight, and with it came snoring loud enough to wake the house. After a vet-recommended weight loss plan and switching to a grain-free, allergy-friendly diet, Milo dropped the pounds—and the snore.

Ideal Candidates for Medical Help

If your dog is still snoring after all the lifestyle changes, it’s time to ask if there’s something deeper going on. Some dogs might be better off with surgical or medical intervention. These include:

Brachycephalic breeds (flat-faced dogs) with severe airway obstruction

Dogs who snore while awake, or appear to struggle to breathe

Dogs showing excessive daytime fatigue, refusing to play, or falling asleep sitting up

Dogs with chronic nasal discharge, coughing, or choking

Even though surgery can sound scary, it can be life-changing (and sleep-saving!) for dogs with anatomical challenges.

Final Thoughts – When Snoring Is More Than Just a Soundtrack

At the end of the day, a snoring dog isn’t always a cause for concern. Plenty of pups snore for completely harmless reasons—just like some humans do. But as a pet parent, it’s important to pay attention when the snoring starts to change: if it gets louder, more frequent, or comes with other signs like labored breathing, nasal discharge, or fatigue, it’s time to take a closer look.

Fortunately, the solutions often aren’t complicated. A better bed, a few pounds lost, an air purifier, or even just a humidifier in the room can make a world of difference. And when lifestyle tweaks aren’t enough, your vet can help you figure out if there’s a more serious medical issue at play—and how to treat it.

The real takeaway? Snoring isn’t just noise. It’s communication. Your dog might be telling you they’re totally fine… or they might be asking for a little help breathing better.

So keep your ears open, your heart curious, and your vet on speed dial if things feel off. Your furry friend depends on you to advocate for their comfort and health—even while they sleep.

Here’s to many more restful nights, peaceful snoozes, and quiet cuddles. And who knows? Maybe someday the only snoring in the room will be yours.