If your pup is breathing fast for no apparent reason, you're bound to be concerned. Today our network 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.
Why is my dog breathing fast?
In order to be able to spot abnormal breathing, we need to understand what a healthy respiratory (breathing) rate for a dog is. An average healthy pet should take between 15 to 35 breaths per minute when resting. (Of course, while exercising, your pooch will naturally breathe faster).
Anything above 40 breaths per minute while your dog is at rest is considered abnormal and worth investigating.
That said, it's important for pet parents to keep in mind that not all panting is bad. Panting helps your pup to regulate their body temperature, cooling them down and allowing water and heat to evaporate from the tongue, the mouth and upper respiratory tract.
Unlike people, your pup doesn't sweat to cool down, instead they need to breathe fast to allow air to circulate efficiently through the body. Rapid breathing allows a dog’s body to get back to a normal temperature.
How do I know if my dog is breathing too fast?
To determine whether your dog is breathing abnormally fast, simply count your dog’s respiratory rate while they are sleeping or resting. It can be a good idea to do this when you are not concerned, in order to have a clear understanding of your pet's normal respiratory rate.
Anything under 30 breaths per minute is considered normal, anything above 35 is a cause for concern.
Why is my dog breathing fast?
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.
Dogs breeds with 'squished faces' or shortened snouts such as Boston terriers, boxers, and pugs are more prone to breathing issues and should always be closely monitored by pet parents for any signs of breathing difficulties.
Some potential causes of fast or heavy breathing in dogs include asthma, breed characteristics (such as a short nose), kennel cough, laryngeal paralysis, windpipe issues, respiratory infections, a collapsed or compressed windpipe, stiffened airways, smoke inhalation, lung diseases such as cancer, parasites, pneumonia, hernia, heat stroke, nausea, pain, reaction to medications, or exertion from exercise.
When should I be concerned about my dog's rapid breathing?
If your dog is breathing fast at rest or while sleeping, they could be experiencing respiratory distress. Contact your vet if you notice any of the following signs:
- Engaging stomach muscles to help 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 pup's vet will perform a full physical examination to determine whether the problem is located in the heart, circulatory system, lungs, airway, neck, head, or another area. Your pet's overall general health condition may also be causing an issue.
Your vet needs to know about any previous medical issues that your pet has experienced 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 its 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 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.