Rapid Breathing and Loss of Appetite in a Dog

Rapid breathing and loss of appetite in a dog are symptoms that could signal a medical problem. Watch your dog closely if it has lost its appetite and is breathing heavily. Seek medical help if necessary.

  1. Types

    • Medical conditions that cause rapid breathing and loss of appetite in a dog include distemper, heat stroke, infectious hepatitis, leptospirosis, leukemia, parvovirus, heart problems, poisoning and tuberculosis.

    Identification

    • To identify the cause of your dog's rapid breathing and loss of appetite, take it to the vet for a health check. Inform your vet of any other symptoms, such as vomiting, fever or diarrhea.

    Prevention/Solution

    • The best way to prevent diseases that cause rapid breathing and loss of appetite in your dog is to keep the dog healthy. Take it to the vet once each year for a health checkup and vaccinations. Provide fresh water for your dog each day, and feed a nutritious food. Exercise your dog daily to prevent weight gain.

    Warning

    • Diseases and conditions such as parvovirus, distemper, poisoning and heart problems can be fatal if left untreated.

    Considerations

    • A loss of appetite and rapid breathing does not necessarily signify a medical condition or fatal disease. Keep your dog hydrated on a hot day to prevent overheating, which can be the cause of loss of appetite and rapid breathing.