Many pet owners feel things are wrong when their dogs breathe heavily, especially pitbulls.
Why do pitbulls breathe so hard?
When you notice heavy breathing in your puppies or dogs, they may be characterized by rapid, labored breaths.
While this type of breathing is normal when your dog plays or tries to calm down, some situations should be taken seriously.
Heavy and fast breathing may be a sign of a life-threatening health issue. Sometimes, it could mean that the dog is not receiving enough oxygen to its organs and tissues.
Why is my pitbull breathing so loud?
We know that dogs do not sweat, so they pant to stay cool or maintain their body temperature during hot weather.
Some breeds like pugs or French bulldogs often have to breathe heavier because of their short snouts.
Meanwhile, there are illnesses or conditions associated with heavy breathing that needs urgent attention.
Some of such situations include
- Side effects of medications
- Injury
- Heart failure
- Cushing’s syndrome
- Respiratory conditions, including chronic bronchitis
- Fluid in lungs or lung cavity
- Heatstroke
- Poisoning from consuming a toxic substance
Normal Breathing Vs. Heavy Breathing
In healthy dogs, there is no labored breathing. A normal rate of breathing for dogs is between 10 and 35 breaths per minute.
The average dog takes about 24 breaths per minute at rest. So, a dog consistently breathes heavily at rest, which could mean indicative of serious health problems.
Heavy Breathing In Puppies
Puppies have higher respiratory rates and heart rates, unlike adult dogs. Normally, the breathing rate of a puppy is between 15-40 breaths per minute.
When they sleep, they breathe more according to what they dream about. This happens in the REM (rapid eye movement) stage of the sleep cycle.
You may notice leg movements or whimpers, which are normal. However, younger dogs are at a higher risk of developing infections and diseases that affect the respiratory tract.
So a shift from normal breathing should be a concern.
Why does my pitbull breath so fast?
When your dog breathes heavily or pants after walking or running, it is normal. Also, during hot weather, the dog can pant to maintain temperature.
There is no need for panic in such a situation. However, you should be concerned when
It’s normal for dogs to pant or breathes heavily after exercising (walking or running), playing, or if they are in a hot environment where they need to cool down. In most cases, it is no cause for alarm.
However, you should be concerned about your dog’s breathing if:
1. The dog is breathing heavy at rest
When resting dogs breath heavily, that should be a red flag. This could be a serious health problem.
You must watch and monitor the breathing pattern. You should take the dog to a vet if the condition persists.
2. The dog is displaying pale or blue gums while breathing heavy
When you notice that your dog’s gums are pale or turning blue, you should seek for medical attention.
The reason may be that the dog is not getting enough oxygen. If care is not taken, it could be a life-threatening situation.
3. The dog pants with a closed or partially open mouth
We know that panting is normal. However, if you notice that a dog is breathing heavily with a closed mouth or just a partially open mouth, it should receive medical attention.
4. The dog coughs and breaths heavily
If a dog is coughing and breathing heavily, this may be a symptom of chronic bronchitis or another serious respiratory issue.
5. The dog appears to be in distress
When you see a dog in distress, it may be restless, have little to no appetite, and try to hide.
Some of the signs of stress include tucking the tail between the legs and ears that are pinned back rather than being relaxed.
Take the dog to the vet as soon as possible if your dog is breathing heavy in addition to showing signs of distress,
6. The dog is making other noises while breathing heavy
When you notice that your dog is having difficulty breathing, check if it is making they other noises such as snorting, wheezing, or retching.
These symptoms can be linked to respiratory conditions like chronic bronchitis.
Treatment For Heavy Breathing In Dogs
When it comes to treating dogs that breathe heavily, you should consider taking them to the vet.
Vets would be able to diagnose the underlying cause. Whatever the doctor recommends should be adhered to as well.
Dogs suffering from respiratory problems require medications like bronchodilators or corticosteroids.
These drugs would help your dog breathe easier and manage its symptoms. Sometimes, a dog may need oxygen therapy for stabilization and provision of enough oxygen to its organs.
Although, we can tell you that panting is normal for your dog, and it can breathe heavily often. This does not mean you should not observe its breathing often.
When you observe your dog carefully, you can catch some uncommon symptoms if there is a problem.
Why is my dog breathing fast while resting?
A dog that breathes fast while resting could be a sign of respiratory distress. This is the reason why we recommend pet owners to always watch their dogs.
You should talk to your vet if you notice such behavior. Some of the signs you can consider include noticeably labored breathing, pale, blue-tinged or brick red gums.
When should I worry about dog panting?
You may don’t have to worry about your dog panting. Also, when your dog exercise, or is excited or when the weather is hot, they pant.
Do dogs breathe heavily when sleeping?
Rapid breathing during sleep is common among dogs, and should not be something you should worry about.
When your dog dreams, they can breathe heavier. This means that you should let them be during such a period. Rapid breathing will come to its natural end as the dog’s sleep cycle changes.
Finally, dogs are happy and exciting animals that can play. Most times, you may see them panting or breathing heavily. That does not mean that something is wrong with them.
However, periodically take them to see a vet. This would help you notice some symptoms faster.