Teething can be tough on Shih Tzu puppies and on the people who love them. Between sore gums, lost baby teeth, and all those new sounds, it’s easy to worry something’s wrong. But before you panic, here’s what’s really going on and how to help your puppy feel (and breathe) better.
What most families don’t realize is that teething affects more than just the mouth. When those gums swell, it can also cause temporary inflammation in the surrounding nasal and facial tissues.. especially in brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds like Shih Tzus. That little bit of swelling can make their breathing sound louder or ‘snortier’ than usual, which is why some puppies seem to develop noisy breathing right in the middle of teething. It can be startling, but in most cases, it’s just a short phase on their journey to growing up healthy and strong.
Why Teething Can Affect Breathing
During the teething stage (usually between 12 and 24 weeks), Shih Tzu puppies experience significant changes in their mouths and sinuses. Swelling from teething can put slight pressure on the nasal passages, especially around the soft palate and upper airway.
That temporary puffiness can cause snorts, wheezes, or even light “grunting” sounds, particularly during play or sleep. It can sound worse at night when your pup is resting in certain positions.
The key word here → temporary. Once the new adult teeth settle in and the inflammation eases, the noises almost always improve.
Understanding Stenotic Nares (and Why It’s Often Misunderstood)
Here’s where things get confusing for new Shih Tzu parents, because that snuffling can sound like stenotic nares.
Stenotic nares is a condition where a dog’s nostrils are too narrow, making it harder for them to draw in air. It’s common in flat-faced breeds, but it’s not something you can diagnose just by sound alone, especially during teething.
If your puppy’s nose looks pinched or they’re struggling to breathe even when calm and cool, that’s when it’s time for a vet visit. But if the noisy breathing is only occasional and seems tied to teething discomfort or play, it’s likely just part of the process.
Helping Your Shih Tzu Through the Teething Stage
A few easy ways to help your pup feel better (and breathe easier) through teething include:
✅ Offer cooling teething toys or frozen washcloths to soothe inflamed gums and reduce swelling.
✅ Stick to gentle play and shorter bursts of activity because overexertion can make noisy breathing worse when the airways are irritated.
✅ Keep their environment calm and cool, especially after meals or playtime.
✅ Monitor nasal discharge or labored breathing. Any excessive panting, gasping, or blue-tinted gums is not normal and requires vet care.
When to Call Your Vet
While most teething-related breathing noises resolve on their own, call your vet if you notice:
- Persistent or worsening wheezing
- Difficulty eating or swallowing
- Heavy panting when resting
- Discoloration around the tongue or gums
These can indicate an airway issue beyond normal teething symptoms.
Final Thoughts
Shih Tzu teething can be messy, noisy, and occasionally nerve-wracking, but it’s a temporary stage in your puppy’s development. Once the adult teeth come in, most of that swelling (and snuffling) disappears right along with those baby teeth.
If you’re ever unsure, it’s always okay to ask your breeder or vet for guidance. At Divine Pups, we walk our families through this stage with education, reassurance, and plenty of practical tips, because raising a happy, healthy Shih Tzu means understanding what’s normal… and when to take a closer look.
Ready to learn more about life with a Divine Pup? Join our waitlist here for upcoming litters and resources designed to set you, and your future Shih Tzu, up for success.
