Reasons for Heavy Breathing in Dogs

Is your dog panting excessively, and you wonder what is going on? There are many reasons why a dog might breathe heavily.

While it can be a common occurrence in warm weather, other, more serious conditions may be indicated by increased breathing rates. Before taking your dog to the vet, evaluate his symptoms to try to decipher what his heavy breathing may mean.

Overheating and Exertion

The most common reason for a dog's heavy breathing is overheating or exertion.

Since dogs don't sweat, they cool themselves by panting. They will breathe harder in hot weather or after a lot of exercise.

Heavy breathing in these situations is easily remedied by having plenty of cold, fresh water available for your dog to drink.

However, if your dog has been out in the sun for a long time on a hot summer day, there is a possibility that your dog has developed heat stroke.

Signs of heat stroke are vomiting, staggering, a bright red tongue, and diarrhea coupled with heavy breathing.

If your dog seems to be suffering from heat stroke, move him to a cool area. Move into the shade or into the home with fans and air conditioners to circulate cool air.

You can also apply cool compresses to his belly, groin, and under the armpits.

If heat stroke is suspected, take your dog to the vet for further treatment.

Anxiety & Stress

Just like humans, animals are susceptible to the effects of stress and anxiety.

If a dog is in a new home or environment or is surrounded by strangers, he may feel anxious.

This can cause him to breathe more heavily than normal for the first couple of weeks in the new place.

He can be calmed by giving him more than average love and affection.

Obstruction

A dog will breathe heavily if something is obstructing its windpipe, restricting oxygen intake.

If an object has become lodged in the dog's throat, it must be removed quickly by one who knows how to do so safely to restore appropriate breathing rates.

Pain & Infection

If your dog has suffered an injury, the pain may be causing heavy breathing.

Perform a body check of your dog. Look to see if there are any cuts, wounds, or sensitive areas that cause him pain.

You may also want to have your vet perform a heartworm check, since advanced heartworm infections can cause coughing and heavy, labored breathing.

Congestive Heart Failure & Fevers

More serious ailments like fevers and congestive heart failure can also cause heavy breathing.

If your dog is panting heavily while resting, it may be a sign of a fever caused by a viral infection.

You should take him to the vet if his body temperature is over 102 degrees.

Congestive heart failure occurs when there is not enough oxygen reaching the blood cells in your dog's body. This causes fluid to begin to build up in the lungs.

The ailment can worsen over time. If you suspect your dog's heavy breathing is due to heart failure, take him to your vet for diagnosis and treatment.