Why is My Young Pitbull Having Difficulty Breathing and Sounds Like She’s Snoring?

Dear VetBabble,

I recently observed that my young Pitbull seems to be having a hard time breathing, almost as if she’s snoring. Could you provide any guidance in this situation? And for the records, she has been wormed and vaccinated as recommended.

Response:

Understanding the Problem

Dear pet owner, observing your beloved fur-friend struggle with breathing can indeed be distressing. If she seems to be labouring heavily, producing a sound akin to snoring, there could be various potential health concerns to consider. Now, the good news is that her vaccination and deworming routine being in place puts her in a comparatively better position to fend off many common canine diseases, but it’s essential we explore other possibilities.

Possible Causes and What to Do

Heavy or laboured breathing could be due to a myriad of causes including, commonly, an upper respiratory infection. It could also be a sign of heart disease, a lodged foreign body, or even obesity. Interestingly, dog breeds like Pitbulls, known for their ‘squished’ faces, are more susceptible to a condition known as ‘Brachycephalic Syndrome,’ affecting the breathing.

Apart from the laboured breathing, look out for other signs such as tiredness or lethargy. Lethargy is different from regular puppy tiredness, as puppies are typically active and playful most of the time. If she’s spending abnormal amounts of time sleeping or seems generally less lively, it may be a cause for concern. For more information, you might find our article ‘Is My Puppy Tired or Lethargic?‘ helpful.

Also, does she cough frequently? The correlation between respiratory conditions and persistent coughing persisting for more than a couple of days in dogs is discussed extensively in our feature ‘Coughing in Dogs: Types, Diagnoses and Treatment‘. It serves as an excellent read for understanding the nature, causes and potential cures for different types of dog coughs.

In addition, dogs can exhibit symptoms that are similar to a common cold in humans. Just like how we sneeze, have a runny nose, and experience general fatigue when we have a cold, dogs too can exhibit these signs. If you’re curious about whether your pup might be coming down with a cold, ‘Does My Dog Have a Cold?‘ is a helpful read.

Immediate Steps and Further Advice

The first and most critical step in these situations is to consult your local vet, especially when it involves difficulty in breathing, which could quickly escalate into a life-threatening emergency if not promptly addressed. After examining your pitbull, your vet will be best equipped to diagnose any issues and advise on the appropriate treatment. Besides medical intervention, there are also some lifestyle adjustments that could help in improving your little one’s overall well-being.

Another health-related aspect many dog owners often overlook is their pet’s diet. Digestive issues leading to flatulence are common among dogs, but they can be managed with the right dietary choices. If you’re stuck wondering, ‘How Do I Stop My Dog Farting All The Time?‘, our article would be a great starting point.

In conclusion, it’s always best not to take matters into your own hands when dealing with concerns as critical as laboured breathing. Do reach out to your local vet, and I’m confident your adorable Pitbull will be back to her active, happy self soon. Wishing you and your fur-buddy quick resolution and many more pet-filled joyful moments ahead!