Why Do Dogs Breath Heavily?

by Andrew Garcia

Aug 16, 2022

2 minute read

TABLE OF CONTENTS

What Is Normal Breathing in Dogs?
Why Do Dogs Breathe Heavily?
How Can You Help Your Dog Breathe Easier?
Final Thoughts

As a pet parent, it is understandable that you want to spend a lot of time staring at your adorable dog. But, sometimes, you may even wonder if what you see is normal, and it all makes sense. So, you may wonder why your dog’s breathing rate and type of breathing vary throughout the day.

Panting is normal in dogs. But if your dog breaths heavily with a partially open or closed mouth, it is a sign of a severe situation requiring medical attention. For example, your dog coughing and breathing heavily could be a sign of serious respiratory issues.

What Is Normal Breathing in Dogs?

Generally, a dog’s breathing rate is between 15 and 30 breaths per minute. But, if your dog is experiencing a lower rate, there is no cause for concern as long as your furry pal is healthy. If you’re unsure how normal your dog’s breathing is, you can try counting his breathing rate or take the furry pal to your vet.

Why Do Dogs Breathe Heavily?

There are several reasons why your dog may breathe heavily, including;

Heat Stroke

Certain dog breeds have a higher likelihood of experiencing heavy breathing. For instance, dogs with short snouts breathe heavily. Furthermore, heat stroke causes heavy breathing and panting. Thick saliva, vomiting, diarrhea, and a bright red tongue are symptoms of heat stroke.

Pain

When your dog has an illness or injury and is in pain, it could result in heavy breathing. If heavy breathing occurs suddenly, your furry friend most likely sustained an injury. Furthermore, your dog may experience other symptoms, including licking a particular place, anxiety, a decrease in appetite, and restlessness.

Congestive Heart Failure

Your dog may have respiratory issues if he is experiencing congestive heart failure. Congestive heart failure occurs when the heart is damaged and does not pump enough blood. Consequently, your dog cells do not receive sufficient oxygen, leading to heavy breathing in dogs.

Heartworms

Heartworms are parasitic worms infesting dog hearts and lungs. Usually, mosquitoes spread this condition. A severe infestation may cause your dog to breathe heavily, cough, and retain abdominal fluid.

Chronic Illness

Chronic illnesses and respiratory disorders can cause heavy breathing in dogs. For example, if a dog has Cushing’s syndrome, his adrenal glands may produce too much cortisol. High cortisol levels lead to heavy breathing, excessive hunger, hair loss, and a pot belly.

How Can You Help Your Dog Breathe Easier?

Visiting your vet immediately when you notice heavy breathing in your furry friend is ideal. First, your vet will perform physical examinations like blood tests and X-rays. Then, the vet’s diagnosis determines the best treatment for your canine friends.

If your dog got prescribed medication, ensure you follow all prescriptions and schedule a follow-up visit. As your dog recovers, you may have to reduce your dog’s level of activity. In addition, your vet will help you understand your dog’s treatment plan and what to expect.

Final Thoughts

Breathing and panting heavily is a part of dogs. But, this should only be from time to time. Otherwise, it is a sign of a life-threatening issue. So, if you have pets, pay attention to their breathing and look for signs indicating a more severe problem.

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