Why Is My Dog Panting So Much?

As a pet parent, you’re undoubtedly familiar with your canine companion’s panting, especially after a rambunctious game of fetch or on a hot summer day. But what happens when your dog’s panting seems excessive or unusual?

Dogs may pant excessively due to obesity, pain, stress, and anxiety. More serious issues, such as Cushing’s Disease, respiratory disorders, or heatstroke can cause excessive panting as well.

This article will delve into the reasons why your dog might be panting excessively and what you can do to ensure their health and comfort.

Understanding Normal Panting

Before we dive into excessive panting, it’s essential to understand normal panting in dogs. Dogs primarily regulate their body temperature through panting since they can’t sweat like humans. When a dog pants, it evaporates moisture from their tongue, nasal passages, and lungs, providing a cooling effect. You’ll often see dogs panting during or after exercise, or on a hot day — all perfectly normal circumstances.

In addition to heat regulation, dogs also pant when they are excited, stressed, or happy. Many dogs pant when they anticipate a reward, like a treat or a walk. It’s also a way for dogs to communicate; they may pant to signal that they need something or are uncomfortable.

It’s also worth noting that certain breeds, especially those with brachycephalic (short-nosed) features, like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers, pant more due to their unique anatomy. Their shorter airways make breathing more labor-intensive, resulting in increased panting. However, excessive panting, even for these breeds, could still signal underlying problems.

Causes of Excessive Panting in Dogs

Now, let’s discuss what can cause excessive or abnormal panting in dogs. This includes several possible medical conditions and other factors:

Heatstroke: If your dog has been in a hot environment and begins to pant heavily, it might be suffering from heatstroke — a potentially deadly condition. Signs include excessive panting, drooling, reddened gums, vomiting, diarrhea, mental dullness or loss of consciousness, uncoordinated movement, and collapse. If you suspect heatstroke, this is a medical emergency. Cool your dog down gradually with lukewarm water and contact your vet immediately.

Obesity: Overweight dogs are prone to panting because their bodies must work harder to perform daily activities. If your dog is overweight and frequently pants, consider talking to your vet about a weight loss plan.

Pain or discomfort: Dogs can’t verbalize when they’re in pain, so they use other ways to communicate. One such way is panting. If your dog is panting excessively, it could be a sign that they’re suffering from a health problem such as arthritis, an injury, or a disease.

Heart disease: Certain heart conditions can cause your dog to pant excessively. If your dog’s heart is compromised, it has to work harder to circulate oxygen throughout its body, leading to panting.

Respiratory disorders: Any condition that affects your dog’s ability to breathe properly could lead to excessive panting. This includes issues like pneumonia, laryngeal paralysis, or a collapsed trachea.

Anxiety or stress: Just like humans, dogs can get anxious or stressed, and one symptom of this emotional distress is excessive panting. This could be due to a new environment, loud noises (like thunderstorms or fireworks), or separation anxiety.

Cushing’s Disease: This disease, which results from an excess of the hormone cortisol, can cause excessive panting, along with other symptoms such as increased thirst and urination, increased hunger, and a pot-bellied appearance.

Medications: Some medications may cause excessive panting as a side effect. For example, steroids, such as prednisone, can lead to increased panting. If you’ve noticed increased panting after your dog started a new medication, you should discuss this with your vet.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

If your dog’s panting seems excessive compared to their normal panting, it’s always wise to seek veterinary advice. Additionally, if the panting is combined with other symptoms like loss of appetite, change in behavior, or other physical symptoms, it could indicate a more serious underlying issue.

When you visit the vet, they’ll conduct a thorough physical examination and may suggest diagnostic tests such as blood work, x-rays, or ultrasound, to rule out potential causes. They might also ask about your dog’s recent behaviors, diet, and lifestyle.

Also, sudden, unexplained changes in your dog’s breathing patterns can warrant immediate medical attention. If the panting is accompanied by other signs like a change in gum or tongue color (such as blue, white, or very bright red), extreme fatigue, or a struggling or distressed demeanor, it may signal a respiratory or cardiovascular issue requiring immediate intervention.

How to Help Your Panting Dog

While waiting for a vet appointment or following their advice, there are several things you can do at home to help your dog:

Keep Your Dog Cool

Ensure they always have access to shade and fresh water, especially on hot days. Never leave your dog in a car unattended, as temperatures can quickly rise to dangerous levels.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Regular exercise and a balanced diet are key to preventing obesity in dogs. Discuss with your vet about a suitable diet and exercise routine for your dog.

Manage Stress

If your dog seems to pant more during stressful situations, try to create a calm, predictable environment. Comforting toys, pheromone diffusers, and soothing music can all help reduce anxiety.

Regular Vet Visits

Routine veterinary check-ups can help catch any potential health issues early before they become serious.

Behavioral Training

If the excessive panting is due to anxiety or stress, behavioral modification techniques might be beneficial. This could include desensitization to certain triggers or teaching them calming behaviors. Professional dog trainers or a veterinary behaviorist can provide guidance in this area.

Regular Grooming

If your dog has a thick coat, regular grooming, especially in warmer months, can help prevent overheating. However, never shave your dog’s coat without consulting a vet. Dogs’ coats are designed to protect them from the heat and cold, and shaving can interfere with this natural insulation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while panting is perfectly normal in dogs, excessive or unusual panting can sometimes indicate an underlying problem. By knowing what’s normal for your pet and being alert to any changes, you can ensure that your canine companion gets the help they need when they need it. Always consult with your vet if you’re concerned about your dog’s panting – it’s better to be safe than sorry!

If you are looking for a veterinarian in the Mishawaka, IN region, Lincolnway Veterinary Clinic is here to serve you and your pup. Reach out at (574) 256-1871, or you can make an appointment today!