Panting & Wheezing in a Canine

Since dogs can't regulate their body temperatures in the same way humans can, panting is a normal way for them to get rid of body heat. It's usually most noticeable after exercise or on a hot day, but panting at odd times, indoors or during cool weather -- especially when coupled with a wheezing sound -- may indicate the beginnings of respiratory problems.

  1. When to Be Concerned

    • Since panting is a normal function of a dog's respiratory system, it can sometimes be difficult to tell when it's the sign of a problem. Being familiar with the way your dog's body functions in its normal state will go a long way in making you able to tell when something is wrong. Generally, a dog should be taking between 10 and 30 breaths each minute in a resting state, and panting during times of high temperature, exercise or excitement. If your dog is panting without any of these conditions or after mild activity that previously did not bother him, this may be a sign of a problem. Panting typically sounds no different than regular breathing, only faster; when it is accompanied by a whistling or wheezing, there may be cause for concern.

    Causes of Panting

    • Look for any other signs of pain with abnormal panting.

      Healthy dogs use panting to regular body temperature, but it can also be seen as symptom of congestive heart failure. When the dog's heart cannot keep up with the body's need for an oxygen supply, panting can be an attempt to compensate for that. It is also a symptom of lung disease, as the body tries to compensate for the difficulty the lungs are having. Shallow panting -- when the dog is taking quick breaths -- can also be a symptom of an injury to the chest cavity. When there is shallow breathing and a wheezing sound as well, this can be a sign of broken bones or punctures.

    Causes of Wheezing

    • Wheezing can be most noticeable when the dog is panting. There are a number of causes for wheezing, ranging from an obstruction in the dog's windpipe and irritation in the throat to the beginnings of an illness such as pneumonia. Sometimes wheezing can only be heard when listening to the dog's chest, especially when the condition causing it is just beginning. Regular veterinary visits can catch signs of soft wheezing early before it progresses, which can happen when there is cancer developing in the dog's respiratory system or at the onset of chronic conditions such as heart failure. In some cases, there may be a foreign body lodged somewhere in the dog's respiratory system, which may require immediate medical attention.

    What to Do

    • Catching problems early can save your dog's life.

      For sudden onset, if there is any chance the panting and wheezing could be caused by dehydration, get the dog to a cool, shady place and offer fresh water. Monitor it carefully for any changes in behavior or symptoms. If there is no change, seek veterinary attention. If the panting and wheezing is noticed at a time when there is no real reason for the behavior, consult with a veterinarian immediately. They will most likely want to examine the dog, and check the condition of their respiratory and circulatory systems.