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Is your dog breathing noisily? Common causes and how you can help

Jul 25, 2025
2 min read

Updated: Sep 4


Pug can't breath and makes noises

Why does my dog make noises when he breathes?


Noisy breathing in dogs is a sign that something is not working properly in their airway. If you notice your dog making breathing noises, snoring while awake, panting for no apparent reason or seeming to choke, he could be facing a serious respiratory problem.


Among the most common sounds are:


  • Strident or labored breathing

  • Snoring while awake

  • Excessive panting

  • ‘Grunting’ sounds when inhaling or exhaling


These manifestations are often associated with pathologies such as LarPar, GOLPP, BOAS and many other airway emergencies

Common diseases associated with noisy breathing in dogs


1. Tracheal collapse

A common pathology in small breeds such as the Pomeranian, Yorkshire Terrier or Chihuahua. The trachea loses rigidity and becomes flattened when breathing in, causing coughing and difficulty in breathing.



2. Laryngeal paralysis

The laryngeal cartilages do not open when breathing, blocking the passage of air. It usually affects older dogs and large breeds.



3. Brachycephalic syndrome (BOAS)

It affects flat-nosed breeds, both dogs and cats, such as Bulldog, Pug or Shih Tzu. It includes nasal stenosis, elongated palate and laryngeal collapse, making breathing difficult from an early age (Image 1).

Collapsed larynx of a brachicephalic dog
Image 1. Larynx without lumen prior to Laryngeal Stent implantation.


When is it urgent to take your dog to the vet?

Urgent consultation if your dog presents:


  • Rapid, shallow or labored breathing

  • Bluish or pale gums

  • Choking or loss of consciousness

  • Persistent cough

  • Exercise intolerance or abnormal fatigue


Quick attention can save your pets life.


Silicone stent treatment: a safe and effective solution


When airways are chronically or irreversibly compromised, veterinary stents are a safe and highly effective alternative.


At ABTVET we develop and manufacture silicone stents specifically designed for the anatomy and physiology of dogs and cats.


These devices are placed through minimally invasive procedures, restoring airflow to the obstructed airway.



Larynx with silicone stent in brachicephalic dog
Image 2. Image 1 larynx after stent implantation. The patient can now breathe normally.

Think your dog might need a stent?

Tell us about your dog's symptoms and we'll help you find a veterinary clinic near you that works with ABTVET.




Advantages of ABTVET silicone stents for dogs:


  • Rapid clinical improvement: they allow immediate and effective breathing after the procedure.

  • Safe and removable: made of medical silicone, they are biocompatible and removable if necessary.

  • Radiopaque and visible on X-ray

  • Better quality of life: your pet can walk, run and swim again because breathing is not a luxury, it is a right.


Consult your veterinarian about the possibility of stenting.


We can help you contact specialised centres that use ABTVET devices.



Is your dog struggling to breathe? Don't wait


At ABTVET, we work alongside veterinarians worldwide, offering safe, minimally invasive silicone stents. Tell us what's going on with your pet and we'll help you take the next step , whether you're a pet owner or a veterinarian.



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