Is your dog breathing fast? It’s important to know when rapid breathing is just normal dog panting and when it could be a sign of something serious.
Dogs pant to cool themselves down, but sometimes fast breathing means there’s a medical issue. Being able to tell the difference could save your dog’s life.
This guide will help you recognize the signs of abnormal breathing, know how to respond, and understand what you can do to prevent it.
Is your dog’s breathing normal?
Sometimes it’s hard to tell what’s normal and what’s not. Here’s how to tell if your dog’s breathing is something to worry about.
Normal vs. abnormal respiratory rate
Typically, a healthy dog takes 15 to 30 breaths per minute when resting. Don’t count their breaths when they’re panting after a game of fetch. When your dog is resting comfortably, count the number of breaths they take in 15 seconds and multiply by four.
If your dog is consistently taking more than 30 to 40 breaths per minute while resting, it’s time to investigate. Any changes in your dog’s typical breathing patterns warrant a call to your veterinarian, even if the rate is within the normal range.
Key signs to watch for
Always be on the lookout for:
- Increased effort to breathe, such as using abdominal muscles or stretching the neck out to breathe
- Pale, white, or blue gums (healthy gums are pink)
- Weakness, coughing, disorientation, or collapse
Struggling to breathe is always an emergency, so head to your nearest veterinarian or emergency animal hospital.
Common Causes of Rapid Breathing
Rapid breathing in dogs can be caused by a number of factors, including medical conditions and environmental conditions. Here are some of the most common:
Medical Conditions
- Heart problems. Congestive heart failure can lead to a buildup of fluid in the lungs, which in turn leads to rapid breathing. Dogs with heart conditions often tire easily and may cough.
- Respiratory issues. Lung diseases like pneumonia and asthma can impair breathing. If your dog has a respiratory infection, they may also have a fever, nasal discharge, and a cough.
- Pain and anxiety. Dogs in pain or experiencing a bout of anxiety may breathe rapidly. Look for signs of distress like whimpering, restlessness, or hiding.
Environmental Factors
- Heatstroke. One of the key signs of heatstroke, a life-threatening condition, is rapid, shallow breathing. Heatstroke can happen even when it’s not particularly hot if a dog is overexerted or left in an area without good ventilation.
- Allergies. Allergic reactions can cause swelling in a dog’s airway, which makes breathing difficult. If your dog is having an allergic reaction, watch for facial swelling, hives, and lots of drool.
When is rapid breathing in dogs a sign of something serious?
Sometimes rapid breathing is normal. Panting after exercise or when your dog is a little anxious is usually nothing to worry about. It should clear up within 10 to 20 minutes.
However, if rapid breathing is paired with pale gums, collapse, or an inability to lie down, get your dog to a vet immediately. Any labored breathing, no matter the rate, is also cause for concern.
When to seek emergency veterinary care
If your dog is breathing rapidly and shows any of the following symptoms, take them to a vet immediately:
- Blue or pale gums
- Struggling to breathe or gasping
- Collapsing or losing consciousness
- Unable to lie down comfortably
- Severe weakness or disorientation
Getting help right away can make a big difference. If you’re worried about your dog’s breathing, don’t wait to see a vet.
When you’re on your way, call the emergency clinic and tell them what’s happening. This will help them get ready to treat your dog as soon as you arrive.
First aid for rapid breathing in dogs
If your dog is breathing rapidly, here’s what you can do while you’re preparing to go to the vet:
- Stay calm. Your dog will pick up on your stress, which can make their breathing even worse. Speak softly and move gently.
- Offer water. If your dog seems alert and can swallow normally, offer small sips of water. Don’t force it, especially if they’re struggling to breathe or seem unconscious.
- Limit movement. The more your dog moves, the more energy they’ll use and the harder it will be for them to breathe. If you need to move them, carry them.
- Drive carefully. Keep the car cool and make sure there’s plenty of air circulating.
Preventing rapid breathing in dogs
Rapid breathing isn’t always an emergency, but it’s still a good idea to take steps to make sure your dog is breathing easily. Here are some ways to keep your dog’s respiratory system in good working order.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle
- Weight management. Like humans, overweight dogs are more likely to have respiratory problems. Help your dog maintain a healthy weight to reduce strain on their heart and lungs.
- Regular exercise. Regular, appropriate exercise will improve your dog’s cardiovascular health and lung function. Just be careful not to overdo it, particularly in hot weather.
Environmental control
- Avoid overheating. Heatstroke is a serious threat to dogs. Keep your dog cool on hot days, and provide plenty of shade and water. Avoid strenuous activity when the sun is at its strongest.
- Minimize allergens. Allergens can trigger a number of respiratory issues. Reduce your dog’s exposure by using air purifiers and washing their bedding on a regular basis. Talk with your vet about whether allergy management might be helpful.
Wrapping Up
Knowing how to tell normal panting from abnormal breathing is key to keeping your dog healthy. When in doubt, always err on the side of caution and check with your veterinarian.
If your dog is having trouble breathing, early intervention is essential. The sooner you get your dog to the vet, the better the chances of a positive outcome.
You can also help prevent rapid breathing by making sure your dog eats a healthy diet, gets enough exercise, and avoids overheating. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian are also important for keeping an eye on your dog’s overall health and catching any potential problems early.