What Does It Mean When A Dog Pants Excessively

By panting a dog s body can rid itself of excess heat through the evaporation of water and heat as air passes across the moist surfaces of the mouth and respiratory system.

What does it mean when a dog pants excessively. Often excessive panting is the first sign of overheating in dogs. Panting isn t normally a reason for concern but if your dog is panting excessively it could be a possible sign of heat exhaustion or overexercise. If you re an avid jogger who likes to run with your furry friend try these tips for safe and healthy exercise with your dog if they seem to be panting a lot. Instead dogs cool their bodies using the evaporation of moisture from the mouth and tongue and by exchanging the hot air of their lungs with cooler external air.

In order to determine the cause pay close attention to your dog s behavior and activities when the panting occurs. Panting as a cooling mechanism is necessary because dogs do not have an effective system of sweat glands like people do. If you suspect your dog has heatstroke a quick response can be lifesaving. Following are several potential causes for panting in old dogs.

Overheating is a medical emergency and one of the most serious reasons for heavy panting in dogs. If your dog has been in excessive heat or without water it is imperative to get him to shade and water to drink. Appears excessive compared to the dog s normal panting pattern. There are many reasons why your dog may be panting excessively.

Occurs at inappropriate times when the dog is not overly warm sounds raspier louder or harsher than normal. Panting in dogs to cool down is normal and signals that the dog s thermoregulation system is working as it should. Panting is a well known side effect of opioid use in dogs. By the time your pet begins to pant excessively as a result of heart failure it may be too late to remedy the condition.

Panting is considered abnormal when it occurs for reasons other than heat dissipation and can be recognized by one or more of the following characteristics. By far the most serious condition which results in excessive panting is congestive heart failure. Problems start when the panting in old dogs is excessive and takes place in instances when it is not hot and the dog hasn t exercised. Panting should not be confused with labored breathing.

Heatstroke and dehydration are some of the most common causes of excessive dog panting. This condition arises almost exclusively in older dogs. If heavy panting is accompanied by other symptoms you should have your dog checked by a vet.