We all know that it is not unusual for pet owners to permit their pets to sleep with them on their beds at night. In fact, one third of pet owners have at some time, allowed their pets to sleep on their beds. Dogs readily provide a companionship that can’t be given by any other kind of animal. However, this doesn’t mean to say that cat owners do not let their cats or another pets sleep with them too.

It is made easier too because dogs have a sleep pattern that is very similar to ours. Dogs often rely on their masters with complete trust, which makes them a bit more relaxed during the night. This explains why most dogs fall to sleep easily and later on, enter into deep sleeps where REM sleep activities can occur. In fact, once dogs enter this stage, the owner needs to call them several times before they can truly be woken up.

I’m sure, lots of us have already seen a dog ‘running’ during sleep or, at times, barking with his eyes closed too. These dogs are said to be dreaming. Breathing patterns can also be observed among dogs while they are asleep. For example, there are breeds which breathe heavily and there are breeds which breathe more lightly. The heavy breathers are much more likely to snore than those which do not breathe as heavily.

Some people find that dogs that snore are quite a nuisance during the night, depending on the degree and frequency of the phenomenon. Like with humans, there are various reasons why dogs snore, although most deal with the blocking of the passage of air in the windpipe, 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 applied. 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 preventing proper breathing. It is best if a veterinarian checks on different 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 flesh surrounding their windpipes. Therefore, they have excess tissue hanging around their throats, which can cause obstructions. Once this problem has been corrected, the chances of snoring will be reduced. This would not only be good for your dogs, but you may actually enjoy a decent night’s sleep too.

Snoring also has something to do with the general facial features. Some dogs seem to have squashed 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 afford your dog great relief. However, be certain that, before you take any decision, you are well educated about the potential risks and consequences of surgery to stop your dog snoring. Most procedures are irreversible, so careful thought should be given to any operation you allow. In fact, it is best to accept the recommendations provided by your veterinary doctor.

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