Dog sleep apnea: what to notice, and when to call the vet

October 3, 2026 · 5 min read

A boxer sleeping on its side on a grey sofa-style dog bed with raised sides

Your dog snores, and one night you wonder whether it is more than a funny sound. Some dogs do have a breathing problem during sleep. This guide covers what you can notice at home, how it differs from ordinary snoring, and when to call your veterinarian.

Can dogs have sleep apnea?

Yes. PetMD, in an article written by a veterinarian, says that with sleep apnea a dog momentarily stops breathing while sleeping, sometimes many times through the night. The cause is an airway that squeezes smaller or becomes blocked, so air cannot reach the lungs.

The American Sleep Apnea Association describes the obstructive form as breathing that repeatedly stops or becomes shallow during sleep because of temporary airway blockages. Only a veterinarian can tell you whether this is what is happening to your dog.

What you may notice

You cannot measure breathing at home, but you can watch and listen. These are the signs our sources mention:

Loud snoring through the night (PetMD).
Snoring that sounds like choking or gasping for air (American Sleep Apnea Association).
Breathing that stops or becomes very shallow (American Sleep Apnea Association).
Your dog jolts awake, then falls back asleep (PetMD).
Acting tired during the day (PetMD).
Sleeping with the chin lifted up, which may make breathing easier (American Sleep Apnea Association).

If you see one of these once, do not panic. Watch for a pattern over several nights and write down what you notice.

Snoring versus sleep apnea

Snoring on its own does not mean sleep apnea. VCA Animal Hospitals notes that dogs with a flat-faced build will snort when excited and snore when relaxed or asleep. So some dogs snore a lot because of how their airways are shaped.

What matters is what comes with the snoring. Loud snoring all night, pauses, sudden wake-ups, choking sounds or daytime tiredness are worth mentioning to your vet. We cannot tell you from the outside which one your dog has, and neither can a video. Your veterinarian can.

Which dogs are mentioned most often

PetMD says sleep apnea is most common in flat-faced (brachycephalic) dogs, such as Pugs, English Bulldogs and French Bulldogs. It adds that these dogs often have very narrow nostrils and a longer soft palate that can hang into the opening of the windpipe. The American Sleep Apnea Association also lists Cavalier King Charles Spaniels among the breeds more likely to be affected.

Weight is the other factor named. PetMD says dogs with severe obesity may also be prone to sleep apnea, because internal fat tissue puts too much pressure on the airways. The American Sleep Apnea Association lists obesity and excessive fat around the neck as risk factors.

That said, a dog with a longer muzzle and a healthy weight can still snore or struggle to breathe. If something worries you, ask, whatever the breed.

When to call your veterinarian

You think your dog may have obstructive sleep apnea. The American Sleep Apnea Association advises seeing your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis.
You notice loud snoring that goes on all night, jolting awake, or daytime tiredness (PetMD).
Snoring that sounds like choking or gasping (American Sleep Apnea Association).
Your dog has a flat-faced build and you have questions about their breathing. PetMD suggests discussing brachycephalic airway syndrome with your veterinarian.

When it is an emergency

PetMD is clear on this point. If your dog's breathing is not restarting right away, or the gums look muddy or bluish, this is a medical emergency. Contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinarian immediately. PetMD's article on flat-faced breeds also lists pale or blue gums and collapse as serious signs.

How to prepare for the visit

Small notes make the appointment more useful. Keep a short log of when the snoring happens, how long it lasts, and whether your dog seems tired the next day. If you can, record a short audio or video clip of a typical night. Your vet will decide what comes next.

A spot to nap

Once your dog has been checked, you may simply want a comfortable place for naps. You can browse our dog beds whenever you like.

Quick answers

Can dogs get sleep apnea?

Yes. Veterinary sources describe dogs who stop breathing for short moments while they sleep. It is most often described in flat-faced breeds, and obesity is named as another factor.

Is dog snoring always a sign of sleep apnea?

No. Some dogs snore when relaxed because of their airway shape. Loud snoring all night, gasping, pauses, sudden wake-ups or daytime tiredness are good reasons to ask your vet.