Why does shih tzu snort

Recommended Breeders. This section will discuss exactly why this occurs, what is and is not normal, what to do if there is an increase with this and important health tips regarding this issue. Most owners are aware that the Tzu is a brachycephalic breed, but what precisely does this mean? And how does this relate to snoring and snorting issues? Set aside from other dog breeds, the dogs in this category were bred, over centuries, to have a compressed upper jaw, a short muzzle and a compact skull….

This in turn, led them to have a compressed upper respiratory system. While the jawbone itself does not relate to the noises that a Shih Tzu may make, owners should be aware that this means that the 42 teeth that all dogs have need to fit into a smaller space that with many other breeds…. Therefore, prudent dental care should be provided on a regular basis. Here are the possible types of skulls that purebreds can have:.

Doclichocephalic - This shape has a round head and a very long snout which is also referred to as the nasal cavity Dogs such as Greyhound and Great Dane have this elongates snout and it allows for lots of room for the nasal cavities.

Canines such as the Beagle and the Lab are in this grouping. Brachycephalic - With this profile, the skull is rounded but the muzzle is very short or, for some breeds, practically non-existent.

Aside from the Shih Tzu, the Pug and Boxer are a couple of the other dogs in this classification. Therefore, for the Shih Tzu, since the muzzle is so short and flat, this compresses the nostrils and all inner workings of the sinuses.

Snoring and Snorting It is normal and expected for a Shih Tzu to snore to some degree. Most, but not all, will make some sort of noise while they sleep. This can range from a very low vibration noise barely noticeable to an owner to all all-out, shake-the —windows rumbling.

Snorting is also common and happens due to the same reason as the snoring:. Elongated Soft Palate - The soft tissues of the mouth and throat of the Shih Tzu do not always fit well in the compacted facial area. The soft palate refers to the tissue that divides the oral cavity from the nasal passages.

Dogs are affected by cigarette smoke, and smoky environments are one of the leading causes of Shih Tzu snoring. Smoke increases phlegm in their throat, and further constricts their air passages… it can also lead to canine heart disease according to VetStreet. But you can help by using a humidifier view on Amazon that will put moisture into the air, thus reducing snoring. Your Shih Tzus snoring could be allergy related.

Just like us, dogs can be allergic to pollen and dust, and it will make their snoring worse. I also recommend keeping them away from busy roads, as exhausts can cause similar issues — then ask your vet to test them for allergies. To help with this, keep their bed and linen clean. Excess weight leads to snoring as it puts additional flesh and pressure on the pharynx or soft palate.

If your Shih Tzu is overweight, it could be that just by getting their weight down to a respectable level with dieting you help resolve their snoring problem. If your Shih Tzu is on a daily medicine routine, then the drugs might possibly be the root cause of the snoring problem.

Some dog medicines such as antihistamines, muscle relaxants, pain killers, and sedatives are known to contain elements that relax throat muscles and create snore vibrations. If your Shih Tzu has suddenly started snoring, then check their throat and nasal passages for blockages. Something as simple as blades of grass in the throat or a small obstruction in a nostril can create snores — as well as more serious health conditions such as tumors!

It could be something else altogether blocking how they breathe. Some Shih Tzus can develop allergies, colds, and infections in their airways — if the snoring is partnered with a runny nose and sneezes then get to the vet for a check-up. Decay and abscesses can block air flow leading to significant breathing issues. How do I stop my Shih Tzu from reverse sneezing? Lightly blowing in his face may also help. Why does my dog snort like a pig?

The Root of the Behavior These sounds of grunting or oinking are actually called reverse sneezing. The dog will breathe in too much air through his nose and thus begin the worrisome sound of your dog sounding like a pig.

Reverse sneezing Pharyngeal Gag Reflex is a sudden, rapid and extreme forceful inhalation of air through the nose causing the dog to make repeated snorting noises, which may sound like he is choking.

Choking in dogs is a common emergency. Two very common things that can cause gagging in dogs are infectious problems and laryngeal paralysis. Kennel cough, which is a type of respiratory infection, is a common cause of dog gagging, which results in a harsh, goose-like cough, sometimes followed by a gag.

Snorting dogs or cats are often reacting to something that is irritating their nose, like an allergen or a bit of dirt.

It can also be caused by a virus or sinus infection. An occasional snort is likely no big deal, but you should talk with your veterinarian if your pet is snorting a lot.