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Snoring / Snorting

Shih Tzu Noises: Snoring, Snorting and More

Overview

The Shih Tzu, along with their charming personalities and luxurious coats, are also known for their distinctive sounds, including snoring, snorting, and various other noises. These auditory traits are not just quirks of the breed but are closely related to the Shih Tzu's brachycephalic nature. Brachycephalic breeds, characterized by their short noses and flat faces, often experience unique respiratory and airway challenges, which can manifest in the form of these notable sounds.


In this article, we delve into Shih Tzu noises and examine how their head shape contributes to the range of noises they make. We'll explore what sounds are considered normal and which might signal a need for veterinary attention. Additionally, we will offer practical tips to help manage and potentially prevent issues like snoring, ensuring your Shih Tzu enjoys comfortable sleep.

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Brachycephalic Elements:

To understand why it's common for Shih Tzu dogs to snore, snort and make other noises, we must first understand the type of head shape this breed has. There are three main canine head shapes and their differences lie mainly in the snout and skull.

Canine snout profiles: Brachycephalic vs Mesocephalic vs Dolichocephalic
Canine snout profiles: Brachycephalic vs Mesocephalic vs Dolichocephalic

Brachycephalic: With this profile, the skull is short, broad and rounded and the muzzle is very short or, for some breeds, practically non-existent. This makes breathing passages very compact and compressed. Aside from the Shih Tzu, the Pug and Boxer are a couple of the other dogs in this classification. 


Mesaticephalic: With this shape, the skull and snout are each just about the same size (in length) and dogs in this group are said to have “medium” sized muzzles. Canines such as the Beagle and the Lab are in this grouping.


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 profile and it allows for lots of room for the nasal cavities.

The Odd Noises a Shih Tzu May Make:

The Shih Tzu can make quite a few unique sounds. These noises, ranging from cute to concerning, can leave pet parents amused, bewildered, and sometimes worried. Here are the most common odd noises that a Shih Tzu can make, shedding light on what they might mean:


  1. Snoring and Snorting: Due to their brachycephalic profile, Shih Tzu dogs are notorious snorers. The restricted airway passage not only can cause loud, rumbling snoring sounds but also results in frequent snorting. These snorts are usually the dog's attempt to clear the airway and can be heard when they're excited, playing, or even resting.
  2. Grunting: Shih Tzu puppies and dogs might grunt when they're content, settling down for a nap, or when being picked up. It's a noise that signifies comfort or, occasionally, mild annoyance. However, if grunting is accompanied by discomfort while moving or breathing, it may require a vet's attention.
  3. Reverse Sneezing: A startling noise that often concerns many pet parents is the reverse sneeze. This sounds like a quick honking or snorting noise. While it might seem alarming, it's usually harmless and passes quickly.
  4. Wheezing: Wheezing in Shih Tzu dogs can be a sign of respiratory distress. This high-pitched, whistle-like noise is made when breathing out and indicates that something is blocking the normal flow of air. Allergies, a foreign object in the airway, or underlying health issues such as Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), which is prevalent in flat-faced breeds, are possible causes. Other less common but possible reasons include respiratory infections, heart disease, or tracheal collapse.
  5. Gagging and Coughing: Gagging and coughing can sometimes sound more dramatic in Shih Tzu dogs than other breeds, due to their compact airways. These noises may be more frequent in the morning or after drinking water and can signify anything from a harmless tickle in the throat to more serious conditions like tracheal collapse.
  6. Sighing: A deep sigh from a Shih Tzu, often when they're lying down to rest, usually means contentment. It's a sign they're relaxed and comfortable in their environment, but it can also express disappointment, such as when a play session ends.


Understanding the unusual noises a Shih Tzu makes is crucial for interpreting their needs and well-being. While many of these sounds are normal for the breed, persistent or distressing noises should be evaluated by a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues.

How the Brachycephalic Profile Causes Snoring and Snorting Noises:

Shih Tzu snoring in bed

The Brachycephalic profile, characterized by a short skull, broad head, and flat face, is a distinctive feature of breeds like the Shih Tzu, Bulldog, and Pug. This anatomy, while contributing to their unique and appealing appearance, also predisposes these dogs to a range of respiratory issues that can lead to snoring, snorting, and other breathing-related noises. Understanding how the brachycephalic profile affects these dogs is crucial in recognizing and managing their health needs.

Common Issues that Cause Snoring:

Stenotic Nares (aka pinched nostrils): One of the primary issues associated with the brachycephalic profile is stenotic nares, which are abnormally narrow or pinched nostrils that restrict airflow. This condition forces a dog to exert more effort to breathe through their nose, often resulting in noisy breathing or snoring. Stenotic nares can range from slight to severe. With slight cases, there may be some snoring while sleeping and some light snorting while exercising. But in serious, severe cases, this can significantly impair a Shih Tzu's ability to exercise, regulate body temperature and sleep comfortably.


Elongated Soft Palate: Another common issue is an elongated soft palate, which is when the soft tissue located in the back part of the mouth extends too far into the throat, blocking the airway. This can range from slight to severe. With slight to moderate cases, there will be some loud snoring, gagging noises and/or snorting. In more severe cases, it can lead to serious breathing difficulties, especially during exercise or excitement.

Less Common Issues:

Tracheal Collapse: Brachycephalic breeds are also at risk for tracheal collapse, a condition where the tracheal rings (which hold the windpipe open) are weak, leading to a narrowing of the airway. This can cause a characteristic honking cough, along with wheezing and other respiratory noises.


Laryngeal Collapse: Rare, but possible, and in severe cases of tracheal collapse, the stress on the airways can lead to laryngeal collapse, where the cartilage in the larynx weakens and collapses, further obstructing airflow. This condition can result in a range of noises from wheezing to severe distress sounds, indicating a critical respiratory issue.

How to Manage and Mitigate Snoring, Snorting and Other Noises

Shih Tzu walking without snorting, example
Shih Tzu walking without snorting, example

There are a number of things you can do to help your Shih Tzu not snore as much and breath better. It requires a comprehensive approach that focuses on alleviating symptoms, preventing complications, and improving overall quality of life. Here are some key strategies for managing these conditions:


  1. Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Even toy breeds like the Shih Tzu can carry excess weight (as adults) and this can put additional pressure on the respiratory system, exacerbating breathing difficulties. A balanced low-calorie diet and regular, gentle exercise can help your Shih Tzu lose weight and then maintain a healthy weight.
  2. Environmental Management: Reduce exposure to allergens and irritants to help minimize respiratory issues, including snoring. Use air purifiers like a Germ Guardian Air Purifier to keep the air clean and free of allergens.
  3. Proper Bedding: Provide a firm bed with bolstered sides, like the Lesure Bamboo Memory Foam Dog Bed. Having their head rest on a firm, raised side allows a Shih Tzu to stretch out and elongate their airway passages, which facilitates easier breathing during rest and sleep. Orthopedic beds can also help in maintaining a comfortable sleeping position and are vital for good joint health.
  4. Proper Walking Gear: Shih Tzu dogs should never wear a collar when on a leash. Collars can severely restrict breathing for brachycephalic breeds, causing issues at the time and afterward. Always have your Shih Tzu wear a harness. Some, like the EcoBark Harness Vest, are incredibly easy to put on and off and allow for good air flow. 
  5. Controlled Exercise: Avoid excessive physical activity for your Shih Tzu in hot or humid weather, as it can lead to overheating and breathing difficulties. Opt for shorter, more frequent walks during cooler parts of the day.
  6. Humidifiers: Using a humidifier in the room where your dog sleeps can help keep their airways moist, reducing the risk of irritation and facilitating easier breathing.
  7. Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Routine examinations allow for early detection and management of respiratory issues before they become severe. Your vet can also provide guidance on weight management and recommend specific treatments. In some cases, veterinarians may recommend the use of certain medications or supplements to support respiratory function or manage allergies.
  8. Surgical Interventions: In serious cases of breathing impairment, procedures to correct anatomical abnormalities, such as widening stenotic nares (narrow nostrils) or shortening an elongated soft palate, can significantly improve airflow and breathing quality.


Implementing these management strategies can help mitigate the effects of Brachycephalic respiratory issues, enabling dogs to breathe more easily and enjoy a higher quality of life. Always consult with a veterinarian for a tailored management plan that addresses your dog's specific needs and conditions.

A Final Note

While some light snoring, snorting, grunting and other noises can be an amusing, endearing trait for the Shih Tzu breed, moderate to severe noises like this are an indication that you should step in and make some changes to help your Shih Tzu breath more comfortably. 

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