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Why is my 10-year-old toy poodle breathing noisily when resting?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Toy Poodle | Female | spayed | 10 years and 1 month old | 10 lbs

My 10 year old toy poodle has some noisy breathing when she is resting. It’s not very loud, and she doesn’t seem to have any trouble breathing. I read about weakened trachea rings, could switching to a harness during walks help?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 14th, 2020

Heavy breathing during rest may be heart related. I wouldn't suspect a tracheal problem unless she is actively coughing when awake and especially during excessive motion or play. I would have your vet listen to her heart for any obvious murmurs and then go from there. If a murmur is present, then the vet will want to do a cardiac workup for Karma so that we can get a handle on things before they progress.
I do hope that Karma's heavy breathing is just a coincidence and that she is going to be ok moving forward. Best of luck and take care.
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