If your dog snores louder than your Uncle Larry during Thanksgiving nap time, congratulations—you may be living with one of the world’s loudest sleepers. And we’re not exaggerating.
A recent study by the American Kennel Club revealed that snoring is one of the top sleep-related concerns reported by dog owners, right up there with bed-hogging and drool puddles. Some breeds can snore at decibel levels comparable to a vacuum cleaner. Yes, a vacuum cleaner.
But why do some dogs turn bedtime into a full-blown soundscape of grunts, gurgles, and cartoon-level snorts? It often comes down to their facial structure (looking at you, squishy-faced pups), weight, and even their favorite sleep position. Some breeds are practically born to snore—and honestly, it’s kind of part of their charm.
So, whether you’re already snuggling a furry foghorn or considering adopting one, it helps to know which breeds bring the noise.
Heavy-Snoring Dog Breeds
1. English Bulldog
If snoring were an Olympic sport, the English Bulldog would bring home the gold—and snore through the medal ceremony. These heavy snoring dog breeds are practically built for bedtime noise, thanks to their squished snouts and small nasal passages that make breathing an uphill battle.
As stated by Britannica, English Bulldogs—being one of the brachycephalic breeds—come fully equipped with elongated soft palates, narrowed nostrils, and a throat area that’s, let’s say, architecturally challenged.
Combine that with their knack for gaining weight, and you’ve got yourself a nightly symphony of snorts and snores.
Keeping them at a normal weight is essential—extra pounds only add pressure to already tight airways. Bulldogs also struggle with overheating, so even a warm day can sound like a congested trumpet solo.
Pet owners should be aware of their predisposition to respiratory issues, especially during snooze. Even their favorite sleep posture can worsen things. Sure, they’re adorable and loyal, but they also tend to snore louder than your dad on Thanksgiving.
2. Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers may look like dapper little gentlemen in tuxedos, but don’t let the classy coat fool you—they’re noisy sleepers hiding behind formalwear. These pint-sized pups are on the list of loud snoring dog breeds for good reason.
Compact and brachycephalic, Boston Terriers often deal with breathing problems thanks to those adorable smooshed faces. Their small airways and soft palate excess make every breath a small battle, especially in a deep snooze.
Snoring in this breed isn’t just occasional—it’s practically a built-in feature. The throat structure, paired with a love for cozy lying positions, makes for a snore-worthy bedtime soundtrack. And let’s not forget, being a little overweight only makes it worse.
Though small, as per Purina, their snores come in a surprisingly bold range of tones, and pet owners may mistake them for a distant lawnmower. Boston Terriers are inclined to respiratory concerns and benefit from maintaining an ideal body condition.
Still, it’s all part of their quirky charm—these dogs bring pleasure, noise, and a bit of midnight rumble to your life.
3. Pug
If you’ve ever heard a Pug snoozing, you might’ve wondered if someone left the espresso machine running. These tiny comedians are brachycephalic breeds known for loud snoring that rivals a congested kazoo.
With their squished snouts, narrow nostrils, and elongated soft palates, they are basically born to be snorers. Add in a love for lazy lounging and some creative sleep position choices, and you’ve got a four-legged sound machine.
These dogs are also prone to breathing difficulties and weight gain—two things that don’t mix well when it comes to airways. Even a few extra pounds can turn gentle wheezes into full-blown nighttime performances.
Pet owners should be aware: keeping your Pug at a healthy weight is essential. Obesity can lead to more than just noisy nights—it increases the risk of respiratory problems and other health concerns.
Despite the symphony they bring to your nap, Pugs are endlessly affectionate and full of pleasure. Just don’t expect silent nights once they claim a spot on your pillow.
4. French Bulldogs
Don’t let that butter-would n’t-melt face fool you—French Bulldogs are pint-sized powerhouses when it comes to snoring. These adorable snub-nosed charmers are one of the most likely to snore breeds on the planet.
According to PetMD, as classic brachycephalic breeds, French bulldogs come equipped with narrow nostrils, squished snouts, and elongated soft palates—all of which make breathing a bit of a struggle, especially when they’re in a deep rest position on their back like a starfish.
Their airways are naturally more restricted, and even a little overweight can turn their breathing into a symphony of snores. Combine that with their tendency for allergies, and you’ve got a pet that could out-snore most humans.
Maintaining a balanced weight is crucial for this breed, as respiratory issues are common.
These lovable dogs may need a bit of extra care, but in return, they bring endless joy and a big personality in a compact package. Yes, your Frenchie might sound like a tiny lawnmower at night—but with a face that cute, all is forgiven before breakfast.
5. Boxer
Boxers may look like they’re always ready to rumble, but come bedtime, it’s their snoring that throws the first punch. These athletic charmers are among the dog breeds likely to snore the moment they hit the dog bed.
While they’re not as compact in the face as some brachycephalic breeds, their slightly shortened snouts and thick throat area make them surprisingly noisy sleepers. Combine that with their love for sleeping flat on their backs—and voila! Instant snore concert.
These dogs are also prone to certain respiratory issues, especially if they pack on extra weight. That added fluff around the neck doesn’t help when it comes to clear airways.
Though they look tough, these lovable goofballs are sensitive souls who bring joy, loyalty, and just a hint of thunder to your nights. Pet parents who value silence might be surprised when their Boxer starts out-sawing logs beside them.
Still, with that expressive face and endless energy, the snoring is just part of the Boxer experience—like a bonus feature you didn’t know you needed.
6. Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff might look like a silent guardian, but once they’re asleep, the snoring hits like a diesel engine in low gear. These gentle giants may not be classic brachycephalic breeds, but their short snouts, hefty necks, and loose skin folds make a noise.
Thanks to their narrow airways and extra fat around the throat, Bullmastiffs are prone to loud snoring, especially when they flop into a deep, back-flat sleep posture. Their breathing gets a little dramatic, and suddenly your living room sounds like a lumber mill.
They’re also predisposed to weight gain, which doesn’t help their breathing problems. Keeping them at a healthy weight is crucial to reduce the likelihood of sleep-related symphonies.
Pet parents of this breed know that peaceful silence is a rare luxury. Despite the racket, Bullmastiffs are affectionate dogs who bring calm pleasure to their humans, just not to their bedtime acoustics.
Snoring aside, these lovable giants are loyal protectors with hearts as big as their barks… and snores.
7. Saint Bernard
Ever wanted a dog that snores like a snow plow in action? Meet the Saint Bernard—one of the most adorably loud snoring breeds in the canine kingdom. These majestic pups are famous for their size, drool, and their late-night rumble.
With their massive heads, thick skin folds, and short nasal passages, Saint Bernards are naturally prone to snoring. Add in a heavy lying position and a touch of extra weight, and their snooze sounds can echo through walls.
While not a typical brachycephalic breed, their sheer size and bulk around the neck area often result in airway narrowing, especially during deep sleep. The elongated soft palate and potential for respiratory issues only add to the mix.
Pet owners need to stay on top of their dog’s balanced weight to help reduce these nighttime concerts. Like French Bulldogs and Boxers, certain breeds are simply predisposed to noisy nights.
Despite the decibels, Saint Bernards are gentle, affectionate companions. Their joyful spirit and watchful nature more than make up for the midnight snore storms—they bring warmth, charm, and a bit of Alpine thunder to every home.
Conclusion
So, if your pup sounds like a lawnmower in low gear, rest assured—you’re not alone. From the snore English Bulldog to the thunderously charming Saint Bernard, these breeds prove that being a loud sleeper is just part of their lovable package.
Each of these dogs brings something special to the table (aside from bedtime background noise). Whether it’s the pint-sized snorting of a Boston Terrier or the deep, guttural snores of a Bullmastiff, these heavy snorers come with huge hearts, quirky personalities, and undeniable charm.
Of course, all that nighttime noise isn’t just for laughs—it can hint at underlying health issues, especially in brachycephalic breeds. Maintaining a normal weight, monitoring sleep posture, and staying alert to signs of breathing difficulties can help keep your pup safe and snoring (relatively) softly.
Still, a little snore never stopped anyone from falling head over heels for these adorable companions. If anything, it’s part of the charm—and maybe a reminder to invest in a good pair of earplugs.
At the end of the day, whether you’re embracing the snore or seeking silence, there’s a breed that’s right for you. Now go give your noisy napper a belly rub—they’ve earned it.
