Here we have a common issue. You are sleeping and your pet sleeps next to you. You can hear him breathing heavily. Why does my dog sound extremely congested when sleeping? There are many reasons here and we will have to cover all of them so we can help you as much as possible. It doesn’t mean that your dog has a huge health problem but it can be the first sign of certain health problems. Let’s start with the possible explanations.
Reasons My Dog Sounds Extremely Congested When Sleeping
Allergies
Allergies are common in the world of dogs. They affect more pets than you may believe and they can be hard to diagnose and treat. A dog sounds extremely congested when the sleeping issue can be linked to an allergy. Most dogs suffer from seasonal allergies. These will affect their airways and that’s why a dog will sound congested. You probably have the same issue when you have allergies.
Dogs can also be allergic to all sorts of things in and around your home. They can be allergic to certain chemicals, things, foods and so much more. In most situations, we are looking at allergies to pollen and food. If your pet sounds congested only in the spring, pollen is the cause. If he sounds congested most of the time, another allergy can be the answer.
Your Dog Is Obese
A while back obesity in dogs was extremely rare and even impossible. Today, due to lack of physical activity and unhealthy diet plans, many dogs are obese. One of the issues here is congested breathing like a dog sleeping. Did you know that obesity can cause sleep apnea in humans? It can cause all kinds of issues in dogs as well.
Your pet deserves and needs two main things. He needs healthy food and a lot of physical activity. All dogs love to eat so if you eliminate running around and walking, the risk of obesity is too high.
Dental Issues
Here we have a bit of a strange explanation. A dog will sound congested when he sleeps due to dental issues. See, his mouth is connected with his breathing. An issue or a problem in the mouth will affect his breathing hence he will sound congested. A sore tooth can cause this issue.
Your dog needs regular checks of his teeth. Oral hygiene is mandatory as well. Dogs’ teeth are very strong but dogs like to bite. They can easily damage a tooth in which case this problem will occur. Of course, there are all other issues and problems that can cause congested breathing and they are located in the mouth, not in the airways.
Strange Sleeping Position
Believe it or not, dogs can and will sleep in different positions. You are doing the same thing. When you sleep in a strange position, you will breathe harder and you will sound congested. The situation is the same with dogs. If you see a dog sleeping on his back and sounds congested, this is the explanation why. Keep in mind that it sounds normal; when he sleeps in his natural position, this is the answer to your question. But, if he still sounds congested, there is another issue here!
He Is Born Like This
Dogs that have short noses or flat faces (Pugs and bulldogs are a great example) can often sound congested as they sleep. You can’t do anything about it. This happens due to the shape and size of their airways and it is going to last. These dogs are very sensitive when it comes to breathing hence you will want to keep your eye on them and even take him to a vet if the situation gets worse.
Your Dog Has A Common Cold
Yes, dogs can catch a cold and it that happens he will sound congested while sleeping. You will sound congested while sleeping as well. Keep in mind that there are other signs here. Your dog may have a fever, runny nose or he will sneeze.
Most of the time there is no need to do anything. The cold will pass and your pet will be fine. But, if he has a high fever and he sounds extremely congested, you will want to take him to a vet. He can help your dog and he will feel better.
Certain Medications
If your pet is under certain medications that will make him sleepy and tired all the time, congested breathing may occur. This happens due to a simple fact. A dog will sleep much ‘’deeper’’ due to medications. If this happens, he will sound congested. Of course, this can happen rarely but it can happen and you will need to monitor the progress. Talk to your vet. A new medication might be a better option. This is a harmless side effect and it will pass when your dog stops taking his medications.
What Can You Do?
Yes, you can do something to help your dog. The first thing you can use is Benadryl. This is a medication for humans but it can help dogs. It will block the histamine in your pet and help him sleep better. In other words, it will decrease congestion.
Chicken soup is definitely one of the options you can use. It helps humans and also other animals, including dogs when we have a cold or when we feel sick. It is extremely effective for stuffy nose and when the airways are congested in general. It can help dogs with allergies as well.
You can also try herbs and honey if your dog likes these. You can try aromatherapy but you should be careful. It is best to talk to your vet and find the best remedy you should use when your dog sounds congested as he sleeps.
The Final Word
Why does my dog sound congested when sleeping, is a common thing. It can happen to any dog at any given moment. Usually, there is no need to worry and the issue will pass by itself. But, in some cases, you will need to take your dog to a vet and start treatment.