Why Is My Dog Breathing Fast? Uncover Hidden Dangers Now

But if your dog seems to be breathing quickly for no apparent reason, it could be a sign of something more serious. Dogs are naturally noisy snorters sometimes, but excessive snorting, panting, or even heavy breathing might signal potential causes. Let’s look out for causes and possible treatments to help your dog feel better and get back to their usual behavior.

If your dog is breathing fast, it’s often because of common reasons like exercising, and it should quickly return to normal. However, if the breathing stays rapid or seems heavy, it could be due to more serious causes like heatstroke, pain, or even heart failure. In these cases, it’s important to contact a vet right away to avoid a medical emergency.

Causes of Fast Breathing in Dogs

Cause	Symptoms	Suggestion
Vigorous exercise	Fast panting, drooling, blue-tinged gums, heavy breathing	Allow time for the dog to cool down; monitor for signs of distress.
Heatstroke	Rapid breathing, panting, red gums, dry nose, vomiting	Move dog to a cool place and contact a vet immediately as this is life-threatening.
Congestive heart failure	Faster breathing, coughing, bluish gums, exercise intolerance	Seek immediate veterinary care, especially if there’s sudden collapse.
Pain	Rapid breathing, restlessness, panting, trembling	Consult a vet to identify and treat the source of the pain.
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)	Snoring, snorting, panting loudly, heat sensitivity	Monitor flat-faced breeds closely in hot weather and avoid strenuous exercise; consult a vet.
Pneumonia	Loud cough, fever, lack of energy, poor appetite	Visit a vet to address the infection; monitor energy levels and breathing patterns.
Laryngeal paralysis	High-pitched wheezing, exercise intolerance, collapse	Seek veterinary help; this condition requires medical intervention, especially if severe.
Tracheal collapse	Harsh-sounding cough, wheezing, faster breathing, blue gums	Consult a vet urgently if gums or tongue turn blue; manage symptoms with proper care.
Lung cancer	Difficulty breathing, coughing, weight loss, rapid breathing	Have the vet perform diagnostic tests like X-rays to confirm and treat the condition.

Detailed Look at Causes and Symptoms

Vigorous exercise:

When dogs exercise, they often pant and breathe fast to cool down their bodies. According to a study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology, the dynamic work of breathing (Wdyn) in dogs increases with ventilation during exercise, but interestingly, when body temperature rises above approximately 39°C, the work of breathing actually decreases for a given ventilation.

This suggests that as ventilation increases to dissipate heat, the airway size may expand, significantly reducing the cost of breathing. This adaptation helps conserve oxygen for the exercising limb muscles. If the panting seems too long or heavy, check for signs like drooling or blue-tinged gums. It may take some time for their breathing to return to normal, depending on how hard they’ve been exercising.

Heatstroke

Heatstroke happens when a dog’s body overheats during play or exercise in hot weather. You’ll notice rapid breathing, panting, dry nose, and red gums. I remember one particularly hot day when my dog was playing outside and suddenly seemed unable to get up. I quickly moved him to a cool area and offered him water, which helped calm his breathing. If your dog shows signs of vomiting or is struggling to get up, it’s a life-threatening situation, and you should contact the vet immediately.

Congestive heart failure:

In dogs with congestive heart failure, their hearts struggle to pump blood properly. This causes faster breathing, coughing, and bluish gums, especially after activity or at night. If your dog shows signs of exercise intolerance or collapses unexpectedly, it’s important to seek immediate veterinary care.

Pain:

When a dog is in pain, their breathing may become more rapid, and they might act differently. Signs include restlessness, panting, trembling, or flattened ears. If you notice these changes along with a reluctance to move, it’s a good idea to check with your vet.

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS):

Flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs or Pugs often suffer from BOAS, where their short muzzles make breathing harder. These dogs may snore, snort, or pant loudly, and they are at risk for heat sensitivity and tracheal collapse. Monitor their breathing, especially during exercise or in hot weather.

Pneumonia:

Dogs with pneumonia may have trouble breathing and experience a loud cough or fever. If your dog lacks energy, tires quickly, or has a poor appetite, it could be a sign of lung inflammation. Certain dogs with weakened immune systems or underlying conditions are more at risk.

Laryngeal paralysis:

In laryngeal paralysis, the muscles that open and close the dog’s airway don’t work properly. This is common in older or large breeds, and symptoms include high-pitched wheezing and exercise intolerance. Some dogs may even collapse during strenuous activities.

Tracheal collapse:

Small or toy breed dogs may suffer from tracheal collapse, where the windpipe narrows and restricts airflow. Signs include a harsh-sounding cough, wheezing, and faster breathing. In advanced cases, their gums or tongue may turn blue, signaling an urgent need for vet care.

Lung cancer:

Although less common, lung cancer in dogs can lead to difficulty breathing, coughing, and weight loss. Some dogs may show no signs, but others breathe rapidly, even while resting. A vet must perform tests like X-rays to diagnose and treat the condition.

Here are the other possible causes,

Other Possible Causes and Symptoms

• Asthma
• Lung Diseases such as cancer
• Exercise
• Kennel Cough
• Laryngeal Paralysis
• Windpipe Issues
• Bacterial Respiratory Infection
• Fungal Respiratory Infection
• Pressure on the Windpipe
• Stiffening of Airways
• Smoke Inhalation
• Breed Characteristics
• Pain
• Parasites
• Pneumonia
• Compressed Lungs
• Hernia
• Anemia
• Nausea
• Collapsing Windpipe
• Medication

Additionally, regular ear cleaning is vital for your dog’s overall health and can help prevent discomfort that may affect their breathing.

When to Worry About Your Dog’s Heavy Breathing

It could be a serious condition if your dog has difficulty breathing after exercise or in hot weather. Noisy breathing, like snoring or wheezing, may signal respiratory distress. According to Dr. Mark Jensen, DVM, “Rapid breathing in dogs can be a sign of stress, heat, or an underlying medical condition. Regularly observing your dog’s breathing patterns is essential for early detection.”

Watch for signs like excessive panting, drooling, and their stomach muscles moving more than usual. If your dog’s gums turn pale or blue, or they breathe faster than 40 times per minute while resting, contact a veterinarian immediately.

What to Do if Your Dog is Breathing Fast

Suppose your dog is breathing fast while resting or sleeping. In that case, it’s important to first check if their respiratory rate is abnormal. Count the number of breaths per minute—if it’s over 40, it could be a sign of a serious issue. Contact your vet immediately if you notice this, especially if there are other signs like coughing or unusual behavior. Your vet may suggest watching and monitoring your dog’s breathing to see if they return to normal or if there’s a need for emergency care.

Sometimes, the vet may need a physical examination to determine the problem. This could include checking the heart, lungs, and airways or even looking for broken ribs or lung tumors using X-rays. The vet will ask about your dog’s previous health history. They might check for signs of anxiety, stress, or other medical issues. Treatments can include oxygen therapy, pain relief, or even hospitalization if your furry friend has a more serious condition.

When to Take Your Dog to the Vet for Rapid Breathing

If your dog’s rapid breathing is persistent and noisy, it could indicate an underlying condition. Watch for changes in their appetite, weight, or activity level. If your dog’s resting rate is elevated or they show increased effort when breathing, along with coughing or discoloration of the gums, it could be a sign of a life-threatening emergency. Contact your vet immediately if you notice any of the symptoms.

How Vets Diagnose Heavy Breathing in Dogs

When your vet needs to figure out why your dog is breathing heavily, they start with a thorough examination of your dog’s heart and lungs by listening and sometimes using X-rays to look inside the chest. They might also check the oxygen levels in your dog’s bloodstream using a test called oximetry. If these tests show something unusual, more specific tests like ultrasound or CT scans may be needed to see deeper issues.

It’s important for your vet to know all about any medication your dog is taking because it can affect their breathing. Your vet might even take blood samples to test for heartworm or other conditions that could cause breathing trouble. These steps help the vet find the underlying cause of your dog’s heavy breathing so they can treat it properly.

Treating Heavy Breathing in Dogs

Treatment for heavy breathing depends on the cause. Here’s how some of the common treatments work:

• Oxygen Therapy: If your dog is having trouble breathing, the vet may give them oxygen. This helps them breathe easier by increasing the amount of oxygen in their body.
• Hospitalization: For serious breathing problems, your dog may need to stay in the hospital. This ensures they get fluids and medicine to stabilize their condition.
• Thoracocentesis: When there’s fluid in your dog’s lungs, a vet may use a needle to remove it, helping your dog breathe easier.
• Diuretics: These medications help remove extra fluid from the body, making breathing easier if heart problems are the cause.
• Pain Relief: Pain can cause rapid breathing. The vet may provide medication to relieve pain, helping your dog relax and breathe more normally.
• Bronchitis: Anti-inflammatory medicine and bronchodilators are often used to reduce airway swelling. Antibiotics might also be needed if there’s an infection.
• Heartworm Disease: Injections and hospitalization may be required to treat this condition, as it can be life-threatening. Preventative care is crucial.
• Cancer: Depending on the type of cancer, treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, or medication to help manage symptoms.
• Ruptured Lung Bulla: This requires removing air from the chest through a special procedure, and in severe cases, surgery may be needed.
• Lungworm: Medication to kill parasites is essential. Early treatment is important to prevent serious complications.
• Pulmonary Hypertension: Vets often prescribe medication to lower lung blood pressure, making it easier for your dog to breathe.
• Pulmonary Contusions: If your dog’s lungs are injured, oxygen and special treatments might be needed to help them heal.
• Noncardiogenic Pulmonary Edema: Oxygen therapy is commonly used to treat this condition, helping to remove fluid from the lungs.
• Acute Bleeding: Surgery may be required to stop internal bleeding, and excess blood will be removed from the chest area.
• Rat Poison Toxicity: The vet will provide vitamin K to help blood clotting, and if needed, they’ll drain blood from the lungs.
• Cushing’s Disease: This condition is managed with medication, and regular vet check-ups will help monitor and manage your dog’s symptoms.

Final Thoughts 

If you notice your dog breathing fast, it’s important to pay attention to the signs. Heavy breathing can be caused by many things, like exercise, heatstroke, or even more serious conditions like heart failure. Always consult a vet if the breathing doesn’t return to normal or if you see signs like panting, coughing, or discoloration of the gums, as prompt treatment can help keep your furry friend safe and healthy.

References:

• Gfeller, R., et al. (2023). Breathing Problems: First Aid. Veterinary Information Network.
• Hunter, T., et al. (n.d.). Emergencies in Dogs. VCA Animal Hospitals.
• Kemp, M. H., et al. (2018). Laryngeal Paralysis in Dogs. Merck Veterinary Manual.

FAQ’s

Why is my dog breathing fast while resting?

If your dog is breathing fast while resting or sleeping, it may indicate respiratory distress. Look for signs like laboured breathing or the use of stomach muscles to breathe. If their gums appear pale or blue-tinged, it’s time to consult your vet.

Is rapid breathing in dogs an emergency?

Rapid breathing can be an emergency, especially if it’s fast, shallow, or heavy due to illnesses like asthma, lung diseases, or cancer. If your dog’s breathing exceeds 30 breaths per minute, it’s worth contacting your vet, as anything above 35 may signal a need for further evaluation.

When should I be concerned about my dog’s breathing?

If your dog’s breathing rate is consistently above 30 breaths per minute, it may be a cause for concern. Monitoring for a rate above 35 breaths per minute is crucial, as it may require contacting your vet for an understanding of your dog’s respiratory health.

Do dogs breathe faster when in pain?

Yes, dogs often breathe faster when they are in pain. This can also lead to an increased heart rate. Their body language may change, showing signs of discomfort, which is important to recognize.

What does heart failure look like in dogs?

In dogs, signs of heart failure can include coughing, difficulty breathing, and symptoms of pulmonary edema, where fluid builds up in the lungs. Dogs may tire quickly during activities like playing or walking, indicating decreased stamina.