Dogs bring joy, companionship, and sometimes—unexpectedly—adorable snoring! While some pups sleep soundlessly, others belong to the group of moderately prone to snoring dog breeds, charming pet lovers with their gentle snores. These breeds often have unique facial structures that contribute to their nighttime (and sometimes daytime) symphony of sounds.
Their lovable personalities and affectionate nature make them favorites, but their short muzzles can also lead to some issues in their breathing passages. Understanding why certain dogs snore, their health risks, and how to care for them is essential for any pet owner.
If you’re considering one of these delightful companions, learning about their needs will help ensure they lead a happy, comfortable life without too much nighttime noise!
Moderately Prone to Snoring Dog Breeds
1. English Bulldog
The English Bulldog is an unmistakable breed with its stocky build, distinctive wrinkles, and iconic pushed-in nose.
This charming yet sturdy dog is one of the most well-known flat-faced breeds, characterized by a brachycephalic head shape that affects its breathing efficiency.
Their shortened airways make breathing slightly labored, particularly when they sleep in awkward positions. Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) is a common concern, leading to snoring, wheezing, and occasional breathing difficulties. Due to their inability to regulate body temperature effectively, they struggle in hot weather and are highly prone to heat stroke.
Regular vet visits are crucial for managing stenotic nares (narrow nostrils) and soft palate abnormalities that can further obstruct airflow. Some Bulldogs may require surgery to improve airway function and prevent respiratory problems.
Their skin folds are another concern, often trapping moisture and leading to skin infections. Routine cleaning of the face folds, ears, and underbelly helps prevent bacterial buildup.
Despite these challenges, the English bulldogs’ affectionate temperament and low-energy lifestyle make them fantastic companions for those who can accommodate their unique health conditions. Their distinctive snoring may be an unavoidable feature, but for Bulldog lovers, it’s just another endearing trait of this lovable breed.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a graceful, affectionate companion dog known for its expressive eyes, feathered coat, and elegant gait. Unlike more extreme brachycephalic dog breeds, this spaniel has a longer snout, which provides better airflow. They fall into the moderately prone to snoring breeds, particularly due to their soft palate structure.
Cavaliers can develop mild snoring issues, especially as they age. Their small airways and compact skulls contribute to occasional labored breathing when resting. Hot, humid climates can make them pant excessively, increasing their risk of overheating.
Regular ear cleaning is essential for Cavaliers, as their long, floppy ears make them vulnerable to ear infections. Their large, expressive eyes are also at risk for corneal ulcers, a common problem in flat-faced dog breeds. Daily brushing helps maintain their soft, flowing coat and prevents skin irritation.
Despite their moderate grooming needs, Cavaliers are low-maintenance in exercise, enjoying gentle walks and indoor play. While they love cuddles, their love for food can lead to obesity, which may worsen breathing problems.
According to PetMD, Cavaliers remain among the most affectionate and adaptable small dogs, making them excellent companions. Their gentle snoring habits are far from disruptive, adding to their endearing, cozy charm.
3. Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier is a compact, tuxedo-clad breed known for its charming personality and lively energy. As one of the brachycephalic dog breeds, they have a short muzzle, which affects their breathing efficiency but not as severely as in more extreme flat-faced breeds. This places them among the moderately prone to snoring dog breeds.
Because their airway passages are partially restricted, Boston Terriers often snore lightly when they sleep. Snorting and wheezing can become more noticeable after exercise or in hot weather. Owners should monitor them for BOAS symptoms, especially during play sessions, as overexertion can lead to respiratory distress.
One of their biggest health concerns is eye protection. Their protruding eyes make them susceptible to corneal ulcers and cherry eye, requiring careful cleaning. Ear infections are also common, necessitating routine ear care to prevent buildup.
Boston Terriers are low-maintenance in terms of coat care, needing only occasional brushing to remove loose hair. However, their facial wrinkles should be cleaned to prevent skin infections. Boston Terriers may suffer from breathing difficulties if they become overweight.
With proper care, Boston Terriers can lead healthy, happy lives. Their mild snoring tendencies are usually not disruptive, and their playful personalities make them a joy to have as companions.
4. Pug
The Pug is one of the most recognizable short-muzzled breeds, adored for its wrinkled face and curly tail.
Pugs have a restricted airway system, making them prone to snoring, wheezing, and occasional breathing struggles. Their small nostrils and elongated soft palate can obstruct airflow, especially when they sleep on their backs. Hot weather, excessive exercise, and obesity can worsen their breathing difficulties.
These dogs are also at high risk for heat stroke, as their bodies struggle to regulate their temperature. Owners must ensure they stay cool, especially in the summer. Their deep facial wrinkles require frequent cleaning to prevent bacterial infections.
Their bulging eyes make them vulnerable to corneal ulcers and other eye-related diseases. Their short nose and compact airways also put them at greater risk of BOAS, making regular vet visits crucial.
Despite their health challenges, Pugs remain among the most lovable and affectionate breeds. Their soft snoring often adds to their charming and cuddly personality, making them an irresistible companion.
5. Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux is a massive, powerful breed with a short snout. While not as extreme as other brachycephalic breeds, these pups still contribute to breathing challenges.
Because of their large size, they require consistent exercise but should avoid overexertion, as their airway structure limits their breathing efficiency. Excess heat can cause severe respiratory distress, making monitoring their activity levels in warm weather crucial.
According to PDSA, Dogues de Bordeaux are prone to skin infections, especially around their facial folds. Their eyes are also at risk for conditions like cherry eye, so regular vet visits are essential.
Maintaining a healthy weight is important as extra pounds can worsen breathing difficulties. Their short coat is easy to maintain, but weekly brushing helps remove loose hair and distribute natural oils for coat health.
Despite their snoring tendencies, the Dogue de Bordeaux is a gentle and devoted breed. With proper care and attention, they thrive as loyal and protective companions.
6. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is one of the most popular small companion breeds, known for its bat-like ears, stocky frame, and playful personality. Like other brachycephalic breeds, their flat face and compact airway make them prone to mild snoring and breathing difficulties.
As one of the moderately prone to snoring dog breeds, French Bulldogs tend to snore when sleeping on their backs due to soft palate obstructions. Their restricted nostrils (stenotic nares) can cause snorting and wheezing, especially in hot weather or after exercise.
Their shortened airways also mean they struggle with temperature regulation, making them prone to heat exhaustion and breathing distress in humid conditions. Owners should limit strenuous exercise, provide a cool environment, and ensure they stay hydrated.
Health-wise, eye problems, ear infections, and skin fold irritations are common in French Bulldogs. Regular ear cleaning and skin care help prevent infections. Maintaining a healthy weight can improve the life expectancy of a Boston Terrier. Also, they need exercise to avoid obesity, which can aggravate their breathing difficulties.
French Bulldogs remain among the most affectionate and entertaining breeds despite these concerns. Their soft snoring is often considered an endearing trait, making them beloved household pets.
7. Pekingese
The Pekingese is a toy breed with a compact body, long flowing coat, and a distinct flat face. Originally bred as companions to Chinese royalty, these small dogs have an aristocratic charm, says Purina.
Their shortened snout gives them a unique look and contributes to breathing difficulties. Despite their regal nature, they are affectionate, loyal, and independent-minded companions.
Pekingese dogs often experience airway obstruction due to their shortened nasal passages and elongated soft palate. This can lead to snoring, snorting, and labored breathing, especially during sleep or physical activity. Hot weather can be particularly challenging, as they struggle to regulate their body temperature. Owners should ensure they stay cool and avoid overexertion.
Their thick double coat requires frequent grooming to prevent matting and skin infections. Daily brushing is recommended to keep their coat shiny and healthy, while regular ear cleaning helps prevent ear infections, a common issue due to their long fur around the ears. Their protruding eyes also make them vulnerable to corneal ulcers, so gentle handling is necessary to protect their vision.
Pekingese are known for their strong-willed personalities. While they enjoy companionship, they also have an independent streak and may be stubborn during training. They are generally low-energy dogs, preferring lounging over intense exercise.
However, they still need short daily walks to maintain their overall health and prevent obesity, which can worsen their breathing problems. Their snoring tendencies are a natural part of their anatomy, so owners should be prepared for some nighttime noise.
Despite their respiratory challenges, Pekingese make charming and devoted companions. Their unique grooming needs, delicate health considerations, and signature snoring require an attentive owner. With proper care, these small, flat-faced dogs can live long, comfortable lives while continuing to enchant those around them with their aristocratic elegance and affectionate nature.
Conclusion
Owning one of the moderately prone to snoring dog breeds brings plenty of joy, but it’s important to understand their unique needs. Brachycephalic dogs like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Boston Terriers, French Bulldogs, and English Bulldogs have charming personalities but can experience breathing problems due to their brachycephalic head shape, shortened snout, and stenotic nares.
While these brachycephalic dog breeds are undeniably lovable, they also have a greater risk of heat stroke, airway syndrome (BOAS), and other health issues. However, advances in small animal surgery have improved treatment options for brachycephalic airway syndrome.
Compared to other breeds like Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos, and Japanese Chin, these small dogs may require more attention to prevent ear infections, corneal ulcers, and skin infections. Despite these challenges, with the right care, they can lead healthy, happy lives.
