Hard Breathing in Dogs

Hard breathing in dogs can have many causes. While the dog may just be a little overheated, labored breathing can be a sign of a very serious health problem. Discuss this issue with your veterinarian in order to determine what is causing your dog to be in distress and, if necessary, to begin treating the problem right away.

  1. Heart Problems

    • A dog with heart problems can have trouble breathing. Congestive heart failure and dilated cardiomyopathy can cause rapid breathing and panting. These heart problems can make the heart become enlarged and unable to perform properly; the dog may not be getting enough oxygen as a result. A dog with heart problems should have regular veterinary attention in order to stay as healthy and comfortable as possible.

    Heat

    • An overheated dog will often breathe quickly and heavily in order to cool itself off. Dogs pant instead of sweating the way a human does to keep cool. Dogs can overheat because of their fur coats, especially when it is very hot, so provide your dog with fresh, cool water and keep it in the shade or inside when it is hot out. If your dog vomits or has diarrhea, staggers, has wide eyes, or its tongue becomes bright red or you notice its saliva thicken, it may have heatstroke.

    Heartworms

    • Heartworms are a parasite spread by mosquitoes that can take over a dog's lungs and heart. Advanced cases of this disease can cause a dog to breathe hard and cough. Discuss heartworm prevention medication with your veterinarian. Heartworm disease can be diagnosed using a blood test; further evaluations, such as chest X-rays, can determine the extent of the disease. Treatment options are available, so it is important to work with your veterinarian in order to kill off the heartworms and bring your dog back to its optimal health.

    Pain

    • A dog that is in pain may exhibit signs of distress, such as hard breathing. Dogs do not always cry out in pain, and it can be difficult to tell that something is wrong. Arthritis, infection and injury are some possible sources of pain in a dog.

    Other Factors

    • Hard breathing can be caused by other factors such as tumors, pneumonia and obstructions. Some breeds are more susceptible to heavy breathing. For example, Boston terriers and bulldogs have short faces that are more likely to have narrow nostrils, which can cause breathing problems, especially when combined with other factors such as hot weather. Some breeds, such as boxers, are more likely to develop tumors around the heart that can cause breathing issues. Other breeds, such as Great Danes and Dobermans, are more likely to develop heart problems such as congestive heart failure.