Panting is a dog’s way of cooling itself down, but it is not always normal. Continuous or inappropriate panting can be a sign of pain, stress, or even a serious illness. Therefore, it is important for every dog owner to learn to recognise when panting is harmless and when it requires a veterinary assessment.<\/p>\n
A dog typically pants due to exertion, excitement, or heat. In such cases, its body language is relaxed: the mouth is open, but the jowls are loose and not pulled back in a grimace. As soon as the cause is removed, the panting stops. If a dog is panting heavily while resting in a cool room, it is a cause for concern.<\/p>\n
Continuous panting can have both physical and psychological causes. Here are the seven most common.<\/p>\n
Overheating is the most common and also the most dangerous cause of excessive panting. Because dogs do not sweat effectively, they dissipate heat by panting. If the environment is too hot or the exertion is too great, a dog’s body temperature can rise to a life-threatening level. Heatstroke is always an emergency.<\/p>\n
Warning signs:<\/strong><\/p>\n Breeds particularly susceptible to overheating include brachycephalic breeds (such as pugs and bulldogs), overweight dogs, those with thick coats, as well as older and sick dogs. If you suspect heatstroke, move the dog immediately to a cool place, douse it with cool (not ice-cold) water, and contact a veterinarian right away.<\/p>\n Continuous panting without a clear cause is one of the most common signs of pain. A dog may not whine or limp, but rapid breathing reveals discomfort. Pain can be caused by an injury, arthritis, gastrointestinal issues, or some internal organ disease. By panting, the body reacts to physical stress. If a dog is panting while at rest and is also restless or withdrawn, pain is likely the cause.<\/p>\n Fear and anxiety increase a dog’s heart rate and breathing. Common stressors include:<\/p>\n A stressed dog often also licks its lips, yawns, shakes, whines, or hides. In this case, panting is not due to heat, but rather the dog’s mental burden.<\/p>\n If the heart cannot pump blood effectively or the lungs do not receive enough oxygen, a dog will try to compensate by panting. Heart failure is a common issue, especially in older dogs. Narrowing of the airways, such as laryngeal paralysis or tracheal collapse, also causes laboured and noisy breathing. This type of panting often worsens with exertion or when the dog is lying in certain positions.<\/p>\n Cushing’s disease, or hyperadrenocorticism, is a hormonal disorder in which the adrenal glands produce too much cortisol. It is a slowly progressive disease, and one of its typical symptoms is increased panting, which can occur even at rest. Other classic symptoms include excessive drinking and urination, abdominal swelling, muscle loss, and skin issues such as hair loss.<\/p>\n Some medications can cause increased panting as a side effect. The most common of these are corticosteroids, such as prednisone, which are used to treat inflammation and allergies. If a dog’s panting begins or worsens with a new medication, always discuss it with the treating veterinarian. Never change medication on your own.<\/p>\n Being overweight is a significant burden on a dog’s body. An overweight dog’s heart and lungs have to work harder, and a thick layer of fat insulates heat, making it difficult to cool down. Therefore, an overweight dog is more likely to pant excessively and intensely even with minimal exertion or in mild weather.<\/p>\n Monitor your dog’s normal breathing and behaviour, so you can notice any deviations in time. Contact a veterinarian if you observe any of the following signs:<\/p>\n It is always better to be overly cautious than to wait too long. Continuous and abnormal panting is always a symptom that requires a veterinary assessment.<\/p>\n The overall well-being of dogs is a matter close to our hearts at the Pet Hotel Tassu & Tassu. When you need a reliable care facility for your dog in Uusimaa, our trained animal caregivers are ready to help. We closely monitor the condition and behaviour of each of our charges and ensure that even dogs requiring special attention, such as timid rescue dogs, receive safe and individual care. We offer daycare as well as longer holiday stays. We are conveniently located near good transport links \u2013 Raide-Jokeri and the train station are nearby, making it easy to reach places like the airport or the harbour. During care, we can also trim nails, clean ears, or wash coats. You can trust your pet to our capable hands.<\/p>\n Book a care period easily through our booking system or contact us for more information about our services.<\/p>\n There are many possible reasons for an old dog’s nighttime panting, such as joint pain, heart issues, laryngeal paralysis, or canine dementia. As there may be a serious underlying issue, it is advisable to take the dog for a veterinary examination.<\/p>\n Yes, many dogs pant in the car. Travelling can be exciting or stressful, and cars can easily become hot. Therefore, ensure good ventilation and make the journey as safe and calm as possible for the dog.<\/p>\n Yes, indirectly. A diet that leads to overweight increases panting, as excess weight puts strain on the body and makes it more susceptible to heat. Also, inappropriate food or sudden dietary changes can cause pain and gastrointestinal issues, which in turn manifest as panting.<\/p>\n Panting and shaking together often indicate a strong emotion: fear, stress, or great excitement. However, this combination can also signal pain, nausea, fever, or even poisoning. If the cause is not clear, contact a veterinarian.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Panting is a dog’s way of cooling itself down, but it is not always normal. Continuous or inappropriate panting can be a sign of pain, stress, or even a serious illness. Therefore, it is important for every dog owner to learn to recognise when panting is harmless and when it requires a veterinary assessment. 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2. Pain<\/h3>\n
3. Stress, anxiety, and fear<\/h3>\n
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4. Heart and respiratory diseases<\/h3>\n
5. Cushing’s disease<\/h3>\n
6. Side effects of medication<\/h3>\n
7. Overweight<\/h3>\n
When should you be concerned?<\/h2>\n
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Frequently asked questions<\/h2>\n
Why does an old dog pant at night?<\/h3>\n
Is it normal for a dog to pant in the car?<\/h3>\n
Can a dog’s diet affect panting?<\/h3>\n
Why does a dog pant and shake at the same time?<\/h3>\n