Dogs often pant excessively. If it appears after strenuous physical activity, on a hot summer day, or when they feel thirsty, excessive panting is considered normal. However, if your dog pants too much when he relaxes and without evident reason, it is considered excessive. Breathing rate from 10 to 35 breaths per minute qualifies as normal. Everything beyond that range represents a reason for concern. Veterinarians from Eastshore Vet, the best veterinary clinic in Branford, give you the list of potential causes that may explain why your dog pants excessively.
Underlying Medical Condition
The most common reason for excessive panting in dogs can be some underlying medical issue. Heart disease, anemia, the hormonal imbalance caused by Cushing’s disease or hypothyroidism, respiratory disorders like Laryngeal Paralysis, and so on, may cause too much panting. Dogs who develop allergies can also pant uncontrollably.
Your Dog Is in Pain
Dogs hide their pain and tend to mask their true feelings. To hide the symptoms, your dog might wag his tail and pretend that everything is fine. If he starts panting excessively out of the blue, call your vet to check his health condition and find out whether some internal or external injury causes his pain.
Your Dog Is Old
From time to time your senior dog may pant excessively, too. If his uncontrolled breathing rate frequently appears and is accompanied by other symptoms such as coughing and tiredness, it is a time to see your vet. When your old dog exhibits the symptoms of excessive panting, you need to check his medicines, too. Prednisone, Tramadol, Fentanyl, and medications for underactive thyroid may be potential culprits.Stress and AnxietyWhen your dog feels fear or suffers from stress, excessive panting may be a result. If you have already eliminated the underlying medical condition, examine carefully his lifestyle and try to see the world from his perspective. Sometimes, a small change for you may be a huge source of stress for your furry friend.
Your Dog's Breed
Certain dog breeds such as Pugs, Boxers, Boston Terriers, etc., share a similar problem caused by the anatomy of their muzzles. These dogs express breathing patterns that differ significantly from ones of other dogs. If your dog belongs in this group of brachycephalic breeds, take your time to understand his breathing pattern in order to notice when your dog pants excessively.
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