Treatment FAQ

what treatment to use on dog who has sleep apnea

by Curt Bruen Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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  • Dog sleep apnea is a condition in which a dog temporarily stops breathing while sleeping. ...
  • The causes and symptoms of sleep apnea in dogs are pretty similar to those in humans. ...
  • Some of the best treatments for canine sleep apnea include weight loss, medications, and surgery. ...

However, if your pet does have sleep apnea the most common treatment method involves surgery, the use of antibiotics to clear up allergies, and weight loss, depending on what is causing the sleep apnea.Apr 29, 2019

Full Answer

What can I give my Dog for sleep apnea?

Mar 12, 2021 · If it’s a natural obstruction that’s causing your dog to have sleep apnea, your vet may be able to prescribe medicine to help the problem or perform surgery on the malformed airway. This is the same if your cat has sleep apnea. Are There CPAP Machines for Dogs? CPAP machines are a common treatment for humans with sleep apnea. CPAP therapy helps alleviate …

How do you treat brachycephalic dog sleep apnea?

Oct 28, 2020 · Treatment for Dogs With Sleep Apnea. When it comes to dogs, treatment is not as simple as upgrading to a “better” pillow. Even CPAP, …

What is sleep apnea in dogs?

Anti-histamine medications can help control the allergic reaction and provide relief. Dogs find it difficult to breathe in warm and humid weather and this too can result in sleep apnea. If your pet has sleep problems in the summer, you should let him sleep in an air-conditioned room.

What is sleep apnea and how can it be treated?

Jun 04, 2021 · Some of the best treatments for canine sleep apnea include weight loss, medications, and surgery. Unfortunately the preferred treatment for many humans with sleep apnea (using a CPAP machine) isn’t yet possible in dogs .

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What happens if a dog has sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea in dogs

Dogs experience apneas the same way we do: They temporarily stop breathing, causing their bodies to jolt them awake to take a breath. And as with humans, this constant nighttime arousal results in sleep deprivation and all its short- and long-term health risks.

What are the best ways to treat sleep apnea?

For milder cases of obstructive sleep apnea, your doctor might recommend lifestyle changes:
  1. Lose weight if you're overweight.
  2. Exercise regularly.
  3. Drink alcohol moderately, if at all. ...
  4. Quit smoking.
  5. Use a nasal decongestant or allergy medications.
  6. Don't sleep on your back.
Jul 27, 2021

How common is sleep apnea in dogs?

Sleep apnea is generally rare in dogs. However, it is common in obese dogs and flat-faced breeds like English Bulldogs, Boston Terriers and Pugs. With sleep apnea, excessive internal fat or abnormal respiratory anatomy can temporarily collapse or narrow the airway, jolting a dog awake for 10 to 20 seconds at a time.Jan 24, 2018

What medicine can I give my dog to help her sleep?

Try Melatonin

Melatonin is a natural sleep aid that most dogs tolerate very well. Anywhere from three to six milligrams, depending on the size of the dog,” Morgan says, adding: “Check with your veterinarian to be sure your pet is not on any medication or have any health issues that might conflict with this.”
Apr 21, 2017

What helps sleep apnea without a machine?

Here are six alternative treatments to reduce sleep apnea symptoms.
  1. Maintain a healthy weight. Doctors commonly recommend people with sleep apnea to lose weight. ...
  2. Try yoga. ...
  3. Alter your sleep position. ...
  4. Use a humidifier. ...
  5. Avoid alcohol and smoking. ...
  6. Use oral appliances.

What can I use instead of a CPAP machine?

5 Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
  • Oral Appliances. Just as there are dental professionals who specialize in orthodontics or dental implants, there are also those who can help with sleep apnea. ...
  • Oral Surgery. In some cases, genetics can be the cause of sleep apnea. ...
  • Weight Loss. ...
  • Positional Therapy. ...
  • Inspire Therapy.
Jun 18, 2019

Why do dogs get sleep apnea?

Common causes of sleep apnea in dogs include allergies, being overweight, and obstructions in the dog's airway and nasal passages.

What do you do when your dog is struggling to breathe?

If your dog or cat is displaying any signs of breathing difficulties it's time to head to the vet! Labored breathing should always be considered a veterinary emergency. In order to help your pet to breathe easier your vet will need to diagnose the underlying condition that is causing your pet's breathing issues.Sep 1, 2021

Why does my dog have a hard time breathing at night?

Usually caused by lung and respiratory problems, breathing problems can also be indicative of other problems such as obesity, heartworms, tumours, heart problems, allergies, or injury and trauma. When your dog has difficulty breathing, you may notice fast, laboured breaths, a wide-open mouth and an extended tongue.

What brand of melatonin is best for dogs?

The 10 Best Melatonin for Dogs
  1. Zesty Paws Advanced Calming Bites – Best Overall. ...
  2. waggedy Calm Stress & Anxiety Relief Melatonin Dog Supplement – Best Value. ...
  3. Pet Wellbeing Pet Melatonin Bacon Flavored Liquid – Premium Choice. ...
  4. Nature's Synergy Hemp Oil & Melatonin for Dogs – Best for Puppies.
Feb 12, 2022

Can I give my dog 10 mg of melatonin?

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), melatonin is a safe supplement10 to give to your dog.Mar 11, 2022

Can dogs take diazepam?

Diazepam, sometimes known by the brand name Valium, is a drug that can be used in dogs as an anti-anxiety medication, a muscle relaxant, a treatment for seizures, and medicine for other conditions.

Why do dogs fall asleep?

Narcolepsy is caused by a genetic disorder that usually affects younger dogs. It leads to low levels of “hypocretin” which helps maintain normal sleep patterns. It also affects overweight dogs and breeds like Poodles, Labrador Retrievers, and Doberman Pinschers. A dog with this condition will suddenly collapse and fall asleep, especially after intense playtime or exercise. Their muscles become sluggish and they will appear to be in deep sleep. Any loud noise, petting, or external stimulation will abruptly wake up the dog and leave him confused and flustered.

Why does my dog twitch his paws when he sleeps?

While most dogs will twitch their paws while sleeping, if your pooch seems to be literally running after a squirrel in his sleep, he may be suffering from REM Behavior Disorder. This condition could become extreme in some dogs by causing them to run into walls or even attack inanimate objects around them. Vets usually prescribe Clonazepam to reduce the symptoms and give your dog a restful sleep.

What breed of dog has a short nose?

These include breeds like Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Boxers. They have short snouts and wider skulls and this facial structure affects their airways and increases the risk of sleep apnea as well as brachycephalic syndrome.

Is obesity bad for dogs?

Pet obesity is not cute and can lead to a myriad of health problems including sleep apnea. An overweight dog has more fatty tissues that could collapse on their airways and block them.

How to treat sleep apnea in dogs?

Treatment of Canine Sleep Apnea. Surgery to correct abnormal anatomy is the standard treatment to cure a pet suffering from sleeping disorders. There are several types of surgeries that can cure a pet of sleep apnea and these procedures depend on the part of the body that has to be corrected.

What happens if a dog has sleep apnea?

If a pet suffering from sleep apnea is not treated for a long time, it can lead to chronic sleep deprivation and health problems such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, heart disease and stroke.

How long does a dog's breathing last?

His breathing may become very shallow or interrupted and the interruptions in breathing could last from 10 to 20 seconds. Your pet might have as many as 100 interrupted breathing episodes in one night resulting in a drop in blood oxygen levels.

What breed of dog has a short head?

Such dogs are termed as brachycephalic, the Greek for short head. Breeds with short heads such as English bulldogs, pugs and Boston terriers are prone to this sleeping disorder.

Why do dogs have short heads?

This is because dogs with short heads have small nostrils, a very long soft palate, small sacs in their throats that protrude in the airway and a short windpipe.

Why do dogs have trouble breathing?

Allergies to food, chemicals or toxins can also cause disturbances in breathing and sleep patterns. Anti-histamine medications can help control the allergic reaction and provide relief. Dogs find it difficult to breathe in warm and humid weather and this too can result in sleep apnea.

Why does my airway get narrow?

Swollen air passages can cause the airway to get narrow. A narrow airway could result in interrupted breathing and cause disturbances in the normal sleep patterns. Anti-inflammatory medication can help control the swelling and widen the airway. Allergies to food, chemicals or toxins can also cause disturbances in breathing and sleep patterns. Anti-histamine medications can help control the allergic reaction and provide relief.

What breed of dog has sleep apnea?

Most commonly, sleep apnea in dogs is caused by or seen in: Brachycephalic breeds: Short-snouted breeds like pugs, bulldogs, and Boston terriers are well-known for having a suite of breathing issues, called brachycephalic syndrome. And unfortunately, this collection of breathing issues may include sleep apnea.

Is dog sleep apnea a human condition?

Dog sleep apnea isn’t as well-studied as it is in humans, but the potential causes are thought to be similar. Bottom line: If your dog has certain conditions, he’s more at-risk than other pups.

Can dogs sleep apnea cause death?

Dog sleep apnea is a condition in which a dog temporarily stops breathing while sleeping. Though it doesn ’t always cause serious side effects, it can reduce your dog’s quality of life and — in rare cases — even prove fatal.

How to tell if my dog has sleep apnea?

If you’re concerned that your dog has sleep apnea, then you’ve probably noticed one or more of these signs and symptoms of sleep apnea while they’re asleep: 1 Excessively loud snoring 2 Interrupted breathing which can stop for up to 20 seconds at a time 3 Waking up suddenly with gasping breaths 4 Waking up suddenly with choking breaths 5 Shallow breathing

Is sleep apnea bad for dogs?

Sleep apnea isn’t just a nuisance, it can be very dangerous to your dog’s health. The disruption in breathing – which can occur dozens of times a night and last up to 20 seconds each – not only leads to poorer quality sleep, but a number of other issues.

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a disruption in normal breathing that occurs during sleep. This can reduce the amount of air coming into the body and lead to lower levels of oxygen in the blood than normal.

What is Sleep Apnea?

In human medicine, sleep apnea is known as a condition where breathing stops and starts again during periods of sleep. Because this pattern of non-breathing can affect the depth of our sleep cycles, people who suffer from sleep apnea cannot fall into deeper stages of sleep known as REM sleep.

Can Dogs Suffer from Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is not a common term that is used in veterinary medicine. However, it can occur due to a number of various conditions. For example, dogs who are overweight or obese can have the same respiratory problems that humans can.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea in Dogs

Sleep apnea can be dangerous in dogs. Loud snoring is one of the most common signs. Many dogs can breathe normally during the daytime but brachycephalic dogs have especially noisy breathing! The type of “snoring” sound that they make while awake is known asstertor.

Treating Sleep Apnea

The most important thing in treatment is to address the underlying cause, especially since most dogs won’t tolerate wearing a CPAP mask like apneic humans!

What to Remember About Sleep Apnea In Dogs

Sleep apnea is not often discussed in veterinary medicine, but when it comes to many of the airway disorders described in scientific literature, it makes sense that obstructive sleep apnea is a common side effect. By addressing your concerns with your veterinarian, you can help your pup feel better and get back to having a good night’s sleep!

How to treat brachycephalic dog sleep apnea?

The most common treatment for brachycephalic breeds is surgical correction of any structural abnormalities to open up the airway and make breathing easier. Other treatment methods for sleep apnea in dogs may include antihistamine medications if the dog suffers from allergies and a dental procedure if an abscessed tooth is the culprit. Diagnostic imaging tests may be performed if a foreign body or tumor is suspected. During the summer months, you can increase your dog’s comfort and respiration by letting your furry friend snooze in an air-conditioned room.

Why does my dog stop breathing?

A dog with sleep apnea can stop breathing or experience shallow breathing multiple times over the course of sleep. These respiratory disruptions typically last only seconds before the dog awakens with a gasp and resumes breathing normally. During those seconds, however, the dog’s blood is not being adequately oxygenated. Optimal oxygen levels in the blood are essential for cellular health. Dogs whose sleep cycles are repeatedly disrupted develop sleep deprivation, which makes them lethargic. This results in less physical activity and weight gain, which then puts the dog at risk for other health problems, such as diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease.

Can dogs have sleep apnea?

Sleep Apnea. Sleep apnea is generally rare in dogs. However, it is common in obese dogs and flat-faced breeds like English Bulldogs, Boston Terriers and Pugs. With sleep apnea, excessive internal fat or abnormal respiratory anatomy can temporarily collapse or narrow the airway, jolting a dog awake for 10 to 20 seconds at a time.

How to help a dog with insomnia?

Other strategies for relieving insomnia include increasing physical activity during the day, scheduling playtime before bedtime, making the sleep area more comfortable (purchasing an orthopedic bed for an arthritic dog, for example), and using aromatherapy with lavender and chamomile in the sleep area.

How much sleep does a dog need?

The average adult dog sleeps about 12 to 14 hours a day through a combination of daytime naps and nighttime sleep. Just like in people, sleep is key to a dog’s overall health. It also helps a dog feel more rested and energetic.

Why do dogs sleep?

Just like in people, sleep is key to a dog’s overall health. It also helps a dog feel more rested and energetic. Dogs with sleep disorders might whine, cry, or frequently wake up during the night, become more sluggish during the day or seem more disoriented when performing normal tasks.

What is the cause of narcolepsy in dogs?

Narcolepsy is a nervous system sleep disorder that primarily affects young dogs. It is commonly caused by a genetic disorder that leads to abnormally low levels of a chemical called hypocretin, which helps maintain alertness and normal sleep patterns. This genetic disorder can affect Doberman Pinschers, Poodles and Labrador Retrievers.

What can a veterinarian do to help with pain?

A veterinarian will be able to determine the underlying problem and prescribe appropriate treatment. For example, pain medication can relieve arthritis-related pain, leading to better and more comfortable sleep. Acupuncture can improve sleep by relieving pain and anxiety and may even kidney function.

Can dogs snore?

These constant sleep interruptions can leave a dog feeling tired and sluggish during the day. Loud, chronic snoring is a common sign of sleep apnea. Treatment options include weight loss for obese dogs, surgery and steam humidifiers. Untreated sleep apnea can be life-threatening.

Can a service dog help with sleep apnea?

A service dog may also be able to alert the person with sleep apnea when they’re experiencing significant sleep problems throughout the night. Oftentimes, too, sleep apnea can result in anxiety as the individual is worried, can’t seem to solve problems as easily because of a lack of sleep, and so forth.

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a serious medical condition that can affect people of any age. It impacts both men and women, adults and children. It is a disorder that causes a person’s breathing to be interrupted while they’re sleeping. The results can lead to a loss of oxygen to the brain and other vital organs and a number of serious health issues.

Is sleep apnea a serious condition?

It is a serious condition that can increase the risk of numerous health problems, including: Register your service animal today! There are numerous options available for people dealing with sleep apnea, including devices that regulate oxygen flow, sleeping at a different position, and even losing weight.

What are the risk factors for sleep apnea?

Diabetes. Headaches. High blood pressure. Depression. Heart attacks. There are numerous options available for people dealing with sleep apnea, including devices that regulate oxygen flow, sleeping at a different position, and even losing weight. Some of the primary risk factors associated with sleep apnea include having a family history ...

How does a service dog affect a person?

A service dog can positively impact a person’s life when they’re dealing with sleep apnea in numerous ways.

What is a service dog?

Dogs can be trained to perform numerous tasks and the term service dog covers a wide range of support animals and services. Service dogs are specifically trained to perform various tasks for an individual with a disability. Whether that disability involves blindness, anxiety, or even sleep apnea, these service dogs can alert a person who is having ...

Why is a service dog different from a regular dog?

Not every dog is going to become a service dog because they need to meet specific criteria in order to be registered as a service dog. Their temperament is one of the most critical factors.

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