If your dog is panting for no apparent reason, you're bound to be concerned. Today, our Austell vets share some of the reasons why your dog may be breathing hard and when it's time for your dog to see the vet.
What is rapid panting in dogs?
To be able to detect abnormal breathing in a dog, we must first understand what a healthy respiratory (breathing) rate is. When resting, a healthy pet should take 15 to 35 breaths per minute. (Of course, your dog will naturally breathe faster while exercising.)
Anything more than 40 breaths per minute while your dog is resting is considered abnormal and should be investigated.
However, pet parents should keep in mind that not all panting is bad. Panting aids in the regulation of your dog's body temperature by cooling them down and allowing water and heat to evaporate from the tongue, mouth, and upper respiratory tract. Dogs can cool themselves by panting in water.
Unlike humans, your dog does not sweat to cool off. Instead, it must breathe quickly to allow air to circulate efficiently throughout the body. Rapid breathing allows a dog's body temperature to return to normal.
How do I know if my dog is breathing too fast?
Simply count your dog's respiratory rate while they are sleeping or resting to see if they are breathing abnormally fast. When you are not concerned, it is a good idea to do this to have a clear understanding of your pet's normal respiratory rate. Anything less than 30 breaths per minute is considered normal, while anything more than 35 is cause for concern.
What causes heavy panting in dogs?
Your pet's rapid breathing may be an indication that your pup is suffering from an illness or injury that should be evaluated by your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Dog breeds with 'squished faces' or shortened snouts, such as Boston terriers, boxers, and pugs, are more prone to breathing problems and should be closely monitored by pet parents for any signs of breathing problems.
Some potential causes of fast or heavy breathing in dogs include:
- Asthma
- Breed Characteristics
- Kennel Cough
- Laryngeal Paralysis
- Windpipe Issues
- Bacterial Respiratory Infection
- Fungal Respiratory Infection
- Pressure on the Windpipe
- Stiffening of Airways
- Smoke Inhalation
- Collapsing Windpipe
- Lung Diseases such as cancer
- Parasites
- Pneumonia
- Compressed Lungs
- Hernia
- Heat Stroke
- Anemia
- Nausea
- Pain
- Medication
- Exercise
When should I be concerned about my dog's rapid breathing?
If your dog is breathing fast at rest or breathing fast while sleeping, they could be experiencing respiratory distress. Contact your vet if you notice any of the following signs:
- Engaging stomach muscles to help to breathe
- Reluctance to drink, eat or move
- Pale, blue-tinged, or brick red gums
- Uncharacteristic drooling
- Open-mouthed breathing
- Heavy, fast breathing that’s louder or different sounding than normal panting
How will the vet diagnose the cause of my dog's fast breathing?
Your dog's veterinarian will conduct a thorough physical examination to determine whether the issue is in the heart, circulatory system, lungs, airway, neck, head, or another area. Your pet's overall health condition could also be a factor.
Your veterinarian will want to know about any previous medical issues your pet has had and may recommend diagnostic tests such as X-rays to check the heart, lungs, and abdomen for issues such as broken ribs or lung tumors.
Your pup's vet will also look for any signs of anxiety, stress, or other psychological factors that could be causing fast breathing.
What are the treatments for fast breathing in dogs?
Treatment for your pup's fast breathing will be determined by the underlying cause. Your vet may prescribe pain relief, intravenous fluids with calcium, or other medications.
If your pet's rapid breathing is caused by stress or anxiety, special training with a certified dog behaviorist may be required.
Regardless of the cause of your pet's breathing difficulties, rest and oxygen therapy will likely be needed.
While most dogs will be well enough to be treated at home, in some serious cases hospitalization may be required to monitor the dog's breathing, and to treat the underlying cause.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.