Why is My Dog Panting So Much: Reasons and Solutions

When your dog starts panting, it’s a sign that they are trying to regulate their body temperature. Panting helps dogs cool down by evaporating moisture from their tongue and respiratory tract.

Sometimes dogs breath rapidly too. That is when you need to find out ways to help them.

If you find yourself asking that “why is my dog panting?” then Petpress has the answers.

What does it mean when a dog pants?

Dogs also pant when they are anxious or excited, and this can be a normal behavior during these situations. However, if your dog is panting excessively, it could be a sign of a medical condition and you should consult your veterinarian. Below are five common reasons why dogs may start panting:

1. Overheating – As mentioned, one of the main reasons dogs pant is to cool down their bodies when they get too hot. If your dog is panting heavily and seems uncomfortable, it’s important to provide them with shade and water to help them cool down.

2. Exercise – Dogs will also pant after physical activity as a way to catch their breath and replenish lost fluids. If your dog is panting heavily after exercise, make sure to give them plenty of water and a chance to rest in a cool place.

3. Anxiety – Dogs may start panting when they are feeling anxious or stressed. This could be due to a change in their environment, such as a move to a new home, or meeting new people or animals. If your dog is panting due to anxiety, it’s important to provide them with reassurance and support.

4. Pain – Panting can also be a sign of pain in dogs. If your dog is panting and seems to be in discomfort, it’s important to consult your veterinarian to rule out any possible health concerns.

5. Heatstroke – In extreme cases, panting can be a sign of heatstroke, which is a medical emergency. If your dog is panting excessively and has other symptoms such as excessive drooling, vomiting, or diarrhea, please seek professional medical help immediately.

Is it normal for dogs to pant while resting?

While it’s normal for dogs to pant while they’re active, it’s not necessarily normal for them to pant while resting. If your dog is panting while at rest, it could be a sign of an underlying health condition and you should consult with your veterinarian.

Panting may also be a sign of stress or anxiety, so if you notice your dog doing it when they’re not normally active, try to identify any potential sources of stress in their environment.

How do you calm a dog from panting?

There are a few ways by which you can help your furry friend when you find them panting:

1. Keep them cool

Dogs pant to cool down, so one way to help calm a panting dog is to keep them cool. If it’s hot outside, make sure they have access to shade and plenty of fresh water. If you’re going for a walk or run, bring along a portable fan or misting bottle to help keep them cool.

2. Get them used to being in a car

If your dog is prone to panting and getting anxious in the car, it’s important to get them used to being in the vehicle. Start by taking them for short rides around the block. Gradually increase the length of the trips until they’re comfortable with being in the car for extended periods of time.

3. Use calming scents

There are a variety of calming scents that can help relax a panting dog. Lavender, chamomile, and valerian root are all known to have calming effects. You can purchase essential oils or sprays that contain these scents, or simply place a drop or two of lavender oil on your dog’s collar.

4. Provide distraction

If your dog is panting due to anxiety or excitement, provide them with a distraction. This could be a chew toy or even just a favorite treat. Focusing on something else will help take their mind off of whatever is causing them to pant.

5. Consult your veterinarian

If your dog is panting excessively and you can’t seem to calm them down, it’s important to consult your veterinarian. You must take care of your dog’s health by looking into the signs and symptoms. Excessive panting can be a sign of an underlying medical condition and should be evaluated by a professional.

Conclusion

Panting in dogs is normal behavior, and there’s no need to be alarmed if you see your dog doing it.

There are many reasons why dogs pant, but the most common one is simply because they’re hot. Dogs don’t sweat through their skin as humans do, so they rely on panting to help cool themselves down.

However, if your dog is panting excessively, it might be a sign of a medical problem and you should take them to the vet.