Hi All! I have been worried about the noises my 9mos old lab makes when she breathes. Sometimes she snorts and other times the sounds are almost guttural if that makes any sense. I have noticed when she looks up is when they are the loudest. Also, after taking her to the dog park and she runs and plays hard pants for what seems like a very long time. Almost as if she is stressed and can’t seem to regain her breath. She also developed what seems to be reverse sneezing. I have taken her to the vet twice and they out her on antibiotics. My concern is when we would take her on a leash with a collar she would pull and strain so hard I am wondering if she somehow damaged her airway. I am frustrated because I know something is not right but the vet does not seemed concerned. Is there a vet that would specialize in breathing issues? Tha js for any advice. I am at my wits end...
That sounds really stressful for you If the vet isn't worried that's a good sign, but there is no harm in taking them elsewhere for a second opinion. I've met a dog with a damaged laryngeal paralysis from leash pulling, but it was his bark that was impacted not his breathing. I am however a big fan of harnesses for this reason. If I were you i'd get a second opinion from another veterinarian, and in the meantime film her when she makes the noises after exercise so you have something nice and clear to show them. These articles might also be of interest: Laryngeal paralysis in dogs Best harnesses for Labs No Pull harnesses Do let us know how she gets along!
Yes I am looking into finding a vet that perhaps specializes in respiratory ailments if there is such a speciality. My fear is she has somehow damaged her trachea by her pulling so hard on her leash. We have been using a harness but that still seems like it presses on her neck when she pulls. At 60lbs she is much stronger than I am! My daughter has always used a pinch collar on her 85lb male lab as it makes him much more manageable on their walks. I have read all the article on laryngeal paralysis but since Ginny is only 9mos old I am hoping that is not her case. Thank you for your response.
