If dogs often have short pauses in breathing while sleeping, then this is called sleep apnea. You can usually tell that your four-legged friend snores very regularly and loudly. It also affects some dog breeds more often than others.
According to statistics, brachycephalic breeds in particular often struggle with sleep apnea. This refers to dogs with a flat face and a short muzzle.
The reason? Due to their breeding, the palate of these dogs is often too long and the nasal canal is narrowed. Typical examples of these dogs are:
- French bulldog
- Boston terriers
- Pekingese
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- English bulldog
- Yorkshire Terriers [1]
In addition to race, obesity is also considered a strong risk factor for sleep apnea. Coincidentally, primary brachycephalic breeds also become overweight quickly.
In individual cases, allergies can also contribute. Especially if your dog is allergic to everyday things.
If you suspect this, an allergy test should be carried out and the corresponding allergens should be prevented as best as possible. Because there is still no cure for this.
In very rare cases, abnormalities or developmental disorders can also be the cause. This can basically happen to any dog, but is comparatively rare. [2]
In most cases, sleep apnea is caused by breeding-related breathing problems. In addition to brachycephalic breeds, overweight dogs and four-legged friends with allergies are also more likely to suffer from pauses in breathing during sleep.
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Symptoms
Loud and regular snoring is by far the most common sign of potential sleep apnea in dogs. Other typical symptoms are:
- Restless sleep
- Shortness of breath at night
- Irritability during the day
- Panting in sleep
- Frequent waking up
- Daytime tiredness [3]
In individual cases, sleep apnea only occurs in a certain sleeping position. This is particularly the case when pressure is applied to the neck space.
Under no circumstances should you ignore these signs. If left untreated, sleep apnea increases the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
When dogs struggle with sleep apnea, they usually snore very loudly and regularly. It can also be seen from the fact that sleep is generally restless, the dog wakes up frequently and is very tired during the day.
Treatment
Treatment for sleep apnea depends on the suspected cause. The following things are most commonly recommended here:
The less fat there is in the neck and throat area, the less pressure is placed on the windpipe. A change in feed can be enough of a solution here.
The more physical activity your four-legged friend gets, the better their cardiovascular system and breathing will function. [4]
If sleep apnea only occurs in a certain sleeping position, purchasing a new basket can solve the problem.
According to reports, some dog owners have been able to achieve improvement by using a humidifier near the dog bed.
If the previous methods have no effect, the dog's airways can also be partially widened with medication. [5]
If the sleep apnea is due to narrowed airways, these may need to be corrected surgically. This is particularly common in brachycephalic breeds.
To treat sleep apnea, dogs are usually put on a diet, prescribed more exercise and even recommended that they purchase a new dog bed. In serious cases, medication or even surgery may be necessary.
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