Why Do Dogs Pant? Everything You Need to Know
Panting is a completely normal behaviour for dogs. As a pet parent, you’ve probably noticed your pup panting after a long walk, during playtime, or on a hot summer’s day. In most cases, it’s nothing to worry about.
However, when panting seems excessive or is paired with other unusual symptoms, it could be a sign that your dog is stressed, anxious, or unwell. Knowing the difference between normal panting and concerning panting is essential for keeping your dog happy and healthy.
So, why do dogs pant? Let’s break it down.
Why Do Dogs Pant?
Most commonly, dogs pant to regulate their body temperature. Unlike humans, dogs don’t sweat through their skin. While they do release a small amount of sweat through the pads of their paws, it’s not enough to cool them down effectively.
Panting allows dogs to cool themselves by exhaling warm air from their lungs and taking in cooler air from their surroundings. As they pant with their mouths open and tongues extended, moisture evaporates from their tongues, mouths, and respiratory tracts, helping to lower their body temperature.
That said, cooling down isn’t the only reason dogs pant.
Common Reasons Dogs Pant
1. To Cool Down
Exercise, warm weather, excitement, or play can all raise your dog’s body temperature. Panting in these situations is completely normal and usually stops once your dog has had time to rest and cool off.
2. Fear, Stress, or Anxiety
Dogs can also pant when they’re feeling scared or anxious; this is known as behavioural panting. If your dog isn’t hot or active, but is still panting, emotional stress could be the cause.
Common triggers include:
This type of panting is often accompanied by other signs of anxiety such as pacing, trembling, hiding, excessive yawning, whining, or restlessness.
3. Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
Dogs with short, flat faces, known as brachycephalic breeds, are more prone to panting and breathing difficulties. This includes breeds such as:
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French Bulldogs
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Pugs
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Boxers
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British Bulldogs
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Boston Terriers
Due to the shape of their skulls, these dogs can suffer from Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), where narrowed airways make breathing harder. Panting helps them compensate for reduced airflow but can become excessive, especially in warm weather or after mild exercise.
Why Is My Dog Panting So Much?
If your dog is panting more than usual, especially when resting, indoors, or at night, it could indicate an underlying health issue.
Fast, shallow, laboured, or noisy breathing should never be ignored. Excessive panting may be linked to the following conditions:
Allergies
Dogs can experience allergic reactions to food, environmental allergens, or medications. If panting is accompanied by vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, swelling, or breathing difficulties, seek veterinary care immediately.
Obesity
Overweight dogs are far more likely to pant excessively. Carrying extra weight puts strain on the heart, lungs, and joints, making it harder for your dog to breathe efficiently. Obesity also increases the risk of serious health issues such as arthritis, heart disease, and organ failure.
Heatstroke
Heatstroke is extremely dangerous and most common during warm weather. Symptoms include:
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Heavy or frantic panting
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Difficulty breathing
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High body temperature
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Rapid heartbeat
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Bright red gums or tongue
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Glazed or unfocused eyes
If you suspect heatstroke, move your dog to a cool, shaded area immediately and contact your vet. Always walk your dog during cooler parts of the day and ensure they have constant access to fresh water.
Pain or Discomfort
Dogs are very good at hiding pain. In the wild, showing weakness could make them vulnerable, so many dogs instinctively mask discomfort.
Panting, especially at night when your dog should be resting, can be a subtle sign that something isn’t right. If panting is persistent or unexplained, a vet visit is strongly recommended.
Heart Problems
Sudden or excessive panting can sometimes signal heart disease. Dogs with heart issues may struggle to get enough oxygen, leading to rapid or laboured breathing. This is often paired with lethargy, weakness, coughing, or a noticeable decline in energy.
When to See a Vet
While panting is usually harmless, you should seek veterinary advice if:
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Panting occurs at rest or during sleep
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Breathing appears strained or noisy
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Panting is sudden, extreme, or worsening
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It’s accompanied by other concerning symptoms
Trust your instincts; if something feels off, it’s always better to check.
