Excessive Panting in Dogs at Rest: When Is It a Sign of Trouble?

Panting is a normal cooling mechanism for dogs. Unlike humans, dogs don’t sweat much. They rely on panting to regulate their body temperature. However, excessive panting, especially when your dog is resting or in a cool environment, can be a cause for concern.

Normal Panting vs. Excessive Panting

Normal panting is usually characterized by moderate breathing with the tongue slightly extended. It typically occurs after exercise, in warm weather, or when a dog is excited or stressed. The panting should subside as the dog cools down or calms down. Excessive panting, on the other hand, is heavier and faster, and may persist even when the dog is resting. It might be accompanied by other symptoms like restlessness, lethargy, coughing, or changes in gum color.

Potential Causes of Excessive Panting at Rest

Several medical conditions can cause excessive panting in dogs at rest. Here are some of the most common:

• Heatstroke: Although excessive panting is a symptom, heatstroke itself is an emergency. Look for other signs like disorientation, vomiting, and bright red gums.
• Pain: Dogs often pant when they’re in pain. This could be due to arthritis, injuries, or other underlying conditions.
• Heart problems: Congestive heart failure can cause fluid to build up in the lungs, making it difficult for the dog to breathe and leading to excessive panting.
• Lung problems: Conditions like pneumonia, asthma, or tumors in the lungs can also cause breathing difficulties and excessive panting.
• Cushing’s disease: This endocrine disorder causes the adrenal glands to produce too much cortisol, which can lead to increased panting, thirst, and appetite.
• Anemia: A low red blood cell count can reduce oxygen delivery throughout the body, leading to increased panting as the dog tries to compensate.
• Medications: Some medications, like prednisone, can cause increased panting as a side effect.
• Obesity: Overweight dogs often pant more easily due to the extra weight they carry and the increased effort required for breathing.

When to See a Veterinarian

If you notice your dog is panting excessively at rest, it’s important to monitor them closely. Seek veterinary attention immediately if the panting is accompanied by any of the following:

• Rapid or labored breathing
• Pale or bluish gums
• Weakness or collapse
• Coughing or wheezing
• Restlessness or inability to settle down
• Changes in appetite or water consumption
• Vomiting or diarrhea

Even if your dog doesn’t have any of these additional symptoms, it’s still wise to consult with your veterinarian if the excessive panting persists for more than a day or two, or if it seems to be getting worse. Early diagnosis and treatment of underlying medical conditions can significantly improve your dog’s quality of life.

What to Expect at the Vet

Your vet will perform a physical exam and may recommend diagnostic tests such as blood work, X-rays, or an echocardiogram to determine the cause of the excessive panting. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause and may include medications, surgery, or lifestyle changes.