Breathing Problems in Dogs

All dogs pant, because that is the only way they can cool off, since dogs do not sweat. But a normal breathing rate is 24 breaths when resting and 30 when active. Dogs should not make rattling, groaning or choking noises when breathing. If a dog has problems breathing or is panting far too fast, this is a sign that something is wrong.

  1. Face Shape

    • According to the Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook, dogs with flat noses or brachycephalic skulls are far more prone to having breathing problems than dogs with regular long noses. These breeds include Boston terriers, pugs, Pekingese and English bulldogs. They will be far more prone to the heat and to sinus conditions, because they often have narrowed windpipes. Snorting noises and snoring are normal in these breeds.

    First Aid

    • If a dog is gasping and having problems breathing, bring the dog to the bathroom, stay with the dog and shut the door. Turn on the hot water at full blast until the room fills up with steam. This can often bring tremendous relief to a dog with sudden breathing problems, especially if he has allergies or reverse sneezing.

    Emergency Medical Problems

    • Note if the dog has any other symptoms, as well as having problems breathing. According to The Veterinarian's Guide to Your Dog's Symptoms, if the dog is coughing up mucus, it could be pneumonia. If the dog refuses to lie down and his tongue is turning blue, this could be heart failure or a sign of a chest tumor. The dog needs to go to the vet as soon as possible in all of these cases.

    Chronic Medical Problems

    • A breathing problem can be a symptom of a chronic medical condition, such as bronchitis, seasonal allergies, attacks of reverse sneezing (which pass on their own) and genetic deformities of the soft palette. It is important that these dogs do not get overweight, as that will make the condition worse.

    Warning

    • Supervise a dog just given medication for the first time. According to The Pill Book Guide to Medication for Your Dog and Cat, one of the most serious signs of allergy to a drug or a sign that too much of the drug has been given is that the dog will gasp, will have a swollen throat or will pant heavily without having done any physical exertion. If this happens, call the vet immediately.