Why is dog panting for no reason

Some painful conditions are obvious but more subtle ones include arthritis or abdominal pain. Your veterinarian will be able to advise you on the next steps. Some dogs will start panting when they become excited, this is especially the case in young bouncy animals!

Stress and anxiety can also cause animals to pant. Triggers such as fear of fireworks or thunderstorms and anxiety in the car can all trigger episodes of extreme panting.

Behavioral training will help , as well as calming pheromones or medications. The most common type responsible for this is steroids prednisolone which many dogs are on for conditions such as skin allergies or immune-mediated issues. If your dog is showing this side effect speak to your veterinarian for advice.

Some dog breeds are more prone to excessive panting, including those with flat faces such as Pugs, French bulldogs, and Shih Tzus. These animals have BOAS , a combination of small narrow nostrils, an excess of soft tissue in the back of their throat, and other structural abnormalities. This can stop them from being able to breathe comfortably, meaning they are more prone to bouts of panting, especially when they get warm or excited. Surgery can sometimes help improve things for your dog.

Your veterinarian will be able to advise your further. Some animals may develop a cough and other symptoms such as lethargy and weakness. Breathing issues such as laryngeal paralysis, infections, and cancer could all contribute to excessive panting. Diagnostics like x-rays might be needed, with treatment depending on the cause. These animals are also more prone to panting and weight gain. The condition is diagnosed through blood tests and may require medication. You may also be referred to a canine behaviorist if panting appears to be related to stress and anxiety.

There are no specific home remedies for panting, you will need to tackle the underlying cause. Many dogs will pant when they are overheating and might feel more comfortable with a drink of water somewhere cool. You must see a veterinarian if your dog seems unwell or has other symptoms. Weight changes, episodes of lethargy or collapse, drinking excessively, coughing, and discomfort are all signs that need investigating. If your dog pants a lot at rest or when they are not hot, then this is another indication you should see your veterinarian.

There are several possible underlying causes for this including structural abnormalities flat-nose dogs with difficulty breathing , underlying medical conditions, and behavioral issues.

Panting happens when body temperature rises, which normally occurs because of exercise, excitement, or warm weather. So, it would be considered unusual for your dog to be panting when he was relaxed and cool. Panting at night would be considered abnormal, as most dogs should be relaxed and settled. Take your dog to your veterinarian for a check over and some advice.

Avoid overheating, by keeping your dog cool in summer. Keeping them at a lean, healthy weight can help, too. Whilst many of these conditions cannot be prevented, prompt veterinary attention will help manage the symptoms and stop them from getting too bad. Your dog may be hospitalized to receive treatment with fluids and to have blood work done to make sure their organs were not damaged.

Your pet may need blood work or x-rays to rule out many concerning diseases. Treating the various other causes of excessive panting can range from giving your dog medication at home to hospitalizing your dog for advanced treatment.

Home Dog Care Center. Why Do Dogs Pant? Published: July 31, Panting can be a normal behavior for a dog, but it can also signal an underlying medical issue. What Causes Dog Panting? Here are some common reasons why dogs pant. Heat Panting is a normal behavior for happy and active dogs. Excitement Dogs also pant when they are excited.

Pain It is important to know that dog panting can indicate nausea, discomfort, and pain. Medicine Medications, especially prednisone or other steroids, may cause increased panting even when your dog is not hot, excited, or stressed.

Heatstroke Overheating, or heatstroke , will cause heavy panting in dogs, which can quickly lead to dehydration and death if untreated. Look for Other Symptoms Is your dog lethargic or not eating well?

Offer them water to drink. Call your veterinarian or a local emergency hospital for guidance. If you have to bring your dog to the hospital, run the air conditioner in your car. Featured Image: iStock. Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful?

Yes No. Share this article. Stress or anxiety can be brought on by a variety of different things, ranging from loud noises to extreme life changes. Additional signs that your dog may be anxious about something include:. Your veterinarian in Highland or Westville may suggest behavior modification to help teach her coping mechanisms.

Panting is how dogs cool themselves down. They only sweat through the pads of their feet. This results in cooling the body down from within. You can help her cool down by giving her cool water and cold compresses or draping cool washcloths on her back to start bringing her body temperature down.

The vet may want to give your dog fluids and run blood work to see if there was any organ damage. Other signs that your dog could be overheated or suffering from heatstroke to look out for are:. The vet will most likely give her fluids and run some tests to rule out any permanent damage.

The best way to prevent your dog from getting heatstroke is to implement some best practices to keep her cool and hydrated. Always make sure she has enough water, both indoors and out.

Collapsible water dishes are available online and at pet supply stores. Take the time to give her little breaks in the shade along the way. Try to limit her time outside on especially hot days and never leave her in a hot car or home. Excessive panting can also be a sign that your dog is in some kind of pain. Laryngeal Paralysis is a condition which causes paralysis of the larynx, or voice box, which makes it difficult for the dog to breathe properly.