Panting is normal for dogs, but if your pup’s huffing and puffing nonstop, even at rest, it could signal something more serious. Let’s break down what’s normal, what’s not, and when it’s time to call the vet..!
Panting is normal for dogs, but if your pup’s huffing and puffing nonstop, even at rest, it could signal something more serious. Let’s break down what’s normal, what’s not, and when it’s time to call the vet..!
Panting is a normal part of every dog’s life. But what if your dog seems to be panting all the time, even without exercise or excitement? If you’ve caught yourself wondering, Why is my dog panting so much?
Dogs pant excessively when they are trying to cool down, feeling anxious, in pain, or suffering from an underlying medical condition such as heart disease, respiratory issues, or Cushing’s disease. Panting is a normal behavior after exercise or in hot weather, but if a dog is panting heavily while resting, in a cool environment, or without a clear reason, it may indicate a health concern that requires veterinary attention.
Let’s explore what counts as normal panting, when it becomes a concern, and what steps you should take.
Why Do Dogs Pant? (Normal Panting Explained)
Panting is how dogs cool themselves down. Unlike humans, they don’t sweat through their skin. Dogs release heat through their tongues and paws. So, it’s completely normal to see your dog pant after a long walk, during playtime, or on a warm day in Dubai.
Dogs may also pant:
- When they’re excited or playful
- During mild stress, like a vet visit
- After physical activity
In these cases, panting is brief and stops once the dog calms down. But if your dog is panting heavily and for extended periods, there might be an underlying issue.
What Is Considered Excessive Panting in Dogs?
Excessive panting is when your dog breathes rapidly or heavily without exercise, heat, or excitement. It may be louder than usual, last longer, or occur while resting or sleeping.
Common signs of abnormal panting include:
- Panting indoors or at night
- Panting with pale or bright red gums
- Panting along with drooling, shaking, or lethargy
If your dog is panting for no reason, especially in an air-conditioned space, it’s time to investigate further.
Why Is My Dog Panting So Much? 7 Possible Reasons
1. Overheating or Heatstroke
Dogs often pant to stay cool, but in hot climates like Dubai, the heat can become dangerous. If your dog cannot cool down fast enough, they may experience heatstroke.
Warning signs:
- Excessive panting
- Bright red gums
- Vomiting or collapse
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, heatstroke can cause permanent damage or death if untreated.
2. Anxiety or Stress
Dogs pant when they are nervous or scared. Loud noises, new environments, and separation anxiety are common causes. Stress panting is often paired with pacing, whining, or hiding.
If your dog pants excessively during car rides or vet visits, anxiety may be the trigger.
3. Physical Activity
Panting after a walk or play session is normal. However, it should stop within 10 to 30 minutes. If your dog keeps panting long after exercise, monitor them for other signs.
4. Pain or Injury
Dogs cannot say when something hurts. Panting is one of the ways they express discomfort. If your dog is panting and avoiding movement or showing other unusual behavior, pain may be the reason.
5. Medical Conditions
Some health problems can lead to constant panting, including:
- Heart disease
- Cushing’s disease
- Lung or airway problems
- Anemia
According to research published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, up to 20% of older dogs develop heart conditions that cause increased breathing effort.
6. Obesity
Overweight dogs have to work harder to breathe. Even mild activity can cause heavy panting. In Dubai’s hot climate, obesity makes dogs more vulnerable to heatstroke too.
7. Medication Side Effects
Steroids and other medications can cause increased panting. If your dog has started a new treatment recently, ask your vet about possible side effects.
When My Dog Is Panting Excessively, Should I Be Concerned?
You should be concerned if your dog is panting heavily and it is not related to heat, activity, or excitement. Sudden or intense panting, especially with other symptoms, may require urgent care.
Seek immediate veterinary help if your dog is:
- Panting while resting or sleeping
- Showing pale, blue, or bright red gums
- Weak, vomiting, or unresponsive
- Panting with a swollen belly or coughing
If you are in Dubai, you can visit Pet First Veterinary Clinic for a full check-up.
How Vets Diagnose Excessive Panting
At Pet First, our team follows a step-by-step process to find the cause of your dog’s panting. This may include:
- Reviewing medications or recent changes in behavior
- Checking your dog’s temperature and vital signs
- Performing a physical exam to find pain or swelling
- Running blood tests to check for infection or hormonal issues
- Taking x-rays or ultrasound to examine the heart and lungs
What You Can Do at Home to Help a Panting Dog
If your dog is panting and does not have any severe symptoms, you can help them cool down at home.
- Move your dog to a cool, quiet area
- Offer fresh, cool water
- Place a damp towel on their body
- Use fans or air conditioning
- Avoid walks during peak heat hours (midday to 4 PM in Dubai)
Do not wait at home if your dog is panting heavily with other symptoms like collapse or vomiting.
If you’re thinking, my dog is panting excessively but seems otherwise normal, monitor them closely and seek veterinary advice if the panting continues or worsens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my dog panting so much at night?
Panting at night may be caused by pain, anxiety, or a medical issue. It is not normal and should be checked by a vet.
Do dogs pant when happy?
Yes. Dogs pant when excited, but this panting is usually short-lived and stops once they calm down.
Why is my dog panting in an air-conditioned room?
Panting indoors may point to stress, pain, illness, or overheating earlier in the day. It is not always due to temperature.
Is excessive panting in dogs an emergency?
Yes, it can be. If your dog is panting a lot and also shows signs like weakness, gum color change, or collapse, seek emergency help.
Final Thoughts
Panting is part of how dogs manage their body temperature and emotions. But when it becomes excessive, it can be a sign of stress, pain, or a serious health condition.
If your dog is panting constantly and you are unsure why, do not wait. Early diagnosis can make a big difference.
