Labored Breathing in Dogs (Dog Shortness of Breath):Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Labored breathing is a concerning symptom in dogs that should never be ignored. It can be a sign of an underlying health issue that requires immediate attention. As a responsible pet owner, it is essential to be aware of the potential causes of labored breathing in dogs and understand when to seek veterinary help. This article aims to shed light on this important topic and provide guidance on how to best care for your furry companion.

What is Labored Breathing in Dogs?

Labored breathing in dogs, also known as dyspnea, refers to a condition where a dog experiences difficulty or discomfort while breathing. Labored breathing can manifest in different ways depending on the underlying cause and can be categorized into chronic and acute labored breathing.

Chronic Labored Breathing in Dogs

Chronic labored breathing in dogs refers to long-term or recurring breathing difficulty. It is often associated with underlying medical conditions such as heart disease, chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, collapsing trachea, lung tumors, or congestive heart failure. Dogs with chronic labored breathing may exhibit symptoms such as rapid or shallow breathing, increased effort while breathing, wheezing, coughing, and reduced exercise tolerance.

Acute Labored Breathing in Dogs

Acute labored breathing in dogs refers to a sudden onset of breathing difficulty. It is considered an emergency situation that requires immediate veterinary attention. Acute labored breathing can be caused by various reasons, including severe respiratory infections, allergic reactions, trauma, heart failure, heatstroke, foreign body obstruction in the airways, or anaphylaxis. Dogs experiencing acute labored breathing may exhibit severe distress, open-mouthed breathing, gasping, extended neck and head, pale or bluish gums, and collapse.

What Does Labored Breathing Look Like in A Dog?

Labored breathing in dogs can manifest in various ways, and it is important to be able to recognize the signs. Here are some common indications of labored breathing in dogs:

• Nostril flaring: Dogs may exhibit flaring of their nostrils while breathing, indicating an increased effort to draw in air.
• Extended neck and head posture: Dogs with labored breathing may extend their neck and head forward in an attempt to open up their airways and facilitate breathing.
• Visible signs of distress: Dogs experiencing labored breathing may show signs of distress or anxiety. They may appear restless, agitated, or uncomfortable. You might observe them pacing, panting excessively, or being unable to find a comfortable position.
• Have a change in the color of their gums from pink to blue, purple, gray, or white
• Snoring, rasping, or coughing
• Have a swollen belly
• Foaming or frothing in the mouth
• Have yellow or green eye or nasal discharge

If your dog is experiencing shortness of breath along with other concerning symptoms, it is crucial to seek immediate veterinary attention. These symptoms may indicate a serious underlying health issue that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. 

Dog shortness of breath not eating

If your dog is experiencing shortness of breath and has lost their appetite, it could be a sign of a significant respiratory or systemic problem. Respiratory infections, congestive heart failure, or other conditions may be causing breathing difficulties and loss of appetite. A veterinarian should evaluate your dog to determine the cause and provide appropriate treatment.

Dog shortness of breath sleeping

Labored breathing during sleep can indicate various respiratory or cardiac issues. Sleep apnea, upper airway obstruction, heart disease, or lung problems may contribute to this symptom. 

Dog shortness of breath vomiting

 If your dog is experiencing both shortness of breath and vomiting, it may be a sign of a severe condition that requires immediate attention. Several potential causes include respiratory distress, gastrointestinal issues, poisoning, or organ dysfunction.

Dog shortness of breath wheezing

Wheezing is often associated with narrowed airways, typically due to inflammation or constriction. It can be caused by various conditions, such as allergies, asthma, respiratory infections, or heart disease. 

How Does A Healthy Dog Breathe?

A healthy dog breathes in a regular and relaxed manner, exhibiting a natural rhythm without any signs of respiratory distress. The inhalation and exhalation occur smoothly without any interruptions or pauses.
The average resting respiratory rate for a healthy adult dog is between 10 and 30 breaths per minute, depending on the breed, size, and individual factors. There should be no wheezing, rasping, snoring, or persistent coughing during normal breathing. Puppies and smaller breeds tend to have faster respiratory rates than larger breeds.

The gums and tongue of a healthy dog should have a normal pink color, indicating good oxygenation and circulation. Pale or bluish gums can be a sign of inadequate oxygen supply.

It's important to note that individual dogs may have slightly different breathing patterns, especially during periods of excitement, exercise, or hot weather when panting becomes more prominent. However, even during these times, a healthy dog should not exhibit signs of respiratory distress, such as excessive panting, gasping, or struggling to breathe.

Why Is My Dog Breathing Heavily?

If your dog is breathing heavily, it can indicate various underlying reasons, ranging from normal physiological responses to potentially serious health conditions. It's essential to consider the context and other accompanying symptoms to determine the cause. Here are some possible reasons why your dog may be breathing heavily:

Normal Physiological Responses

• Exercise or excitement: Dogs naturally breathe heavily after exercise or when they're excited. Panting is a normal way for dogs to regulate their body temperature, and it helps them cool down. If your dog has been engaging in physical activity or experiencing heightened emotions, heavy breathing is likely temporary and should subside as they calm down.
• Heat or humidity: Dogs may pant heavily when exposed to hot or humid conditions. Panting helps them dissipate heat and regulate their body temperature. Ensure your dog has access to shade, fresh water, and a cool environment during hot weather.
• Stress or anxiety: Dogs may exhibit heavy breathing when they're stressed or anxious. This can occur in response to new environments, loud noises, separation anxiety, or other triggers. If heavy breathing is accompanied by other signs of anxiety, such as pacing, restlessness, or excessive drooling, it's important to address the underlying stressors and provide appropriate support.

Potentially Serious Health Conditions

Respiratory issues: Certain respiratory conditions can cause heavy breathing in dogs. These may include

• Kennel cough
• Pneumonia
• Allergies
• Asthma
• Bronchitis
• Other obstructive airway diseases

Heart or cardiovascular problems

• Congestive heart failure 
• Heart disease
• Fluid accumulation in the lungs
• Heartworm disease - Heartworms can infect the heart and block the blood vessels between the heart and lungs. This can lead to scarring of the lungs and congestive heart failure. Even after treatment, the lungs may be permanently scarred, which reduces the elasticity of the airways.

Related: Flea Tick and Heartworm Prevention for Dogs

 Heartworm Test for Dogs

How Vets Diagnose Heavy Breathing in Dogs?

• Conduct a thorough physical examination of your dog, assessing vital signs, lung sounds, heart function, and overall health.
• Be prepared to share information about your dog's symptoms, duration of heavy breathing, any recent changes in behavior or environment, previous medical conditions, and any medications or treatments your dog has received.
• X-rays or radiographs are commonly used to evaluate the lungs and heart.
• CT scans or ultrasounds may be necessary for a more detailed evaluation.
• A complete blood count (CBC) and biochemistry panel, can provide valuable information about your dog's overall health, organ function, and potential underlying causes of heavy breathing. Specific tests, such as heartworm testing or tests to assess oxygen levels in the blood, may be recommended based on the suspected cause.
• Fecal Examination
• Cultures or Swabs: If an infection is suspected, your veterinarian may collect samples (such as swabs or cultures) from the respiratory tract or other affected areas to identify the causative organism and guide appropriate treatment.
• If a heart condition is suspected, this can include electrocardiography (ECG or EKG) to assess heart rhythm, echocardiography (cardiac ultrasound) to evaluate the heart's structure and function, or other specialized tests.

How to Help a Dog with Labored Breathing?

If you notice that your dog is experiencing labored breathing, it is crucial to provide immediate assistance while awaiting veterinary care. Your dog can sense your emotions, so it's important to remain calm and composed. This will help keep your dog relaxed and prevent any additional stress or anxiety.

Observe your dog's breathing pattern, heart rate, and overall behavior. Note any changes or worsening of symptoms. Keep track of the duration and frequency of the labored breathing episodes, as this information will be valuable for the veterinarian.

Ensure that fresh water is readily available for your dog. Proper hydration is important for overall well-being and can help thin out any mucus that may be contributing to labored breathing.

Allow your dog to move freely, as long as it doesn't exacerbate their distress. Restricting their movement may cause further anxiety and discomfort.

Seek veterinary care: 

• Dogs with severe respiratory distress may require supplemental oxygen, which will require hospitalization.
• Medications to help your dog breathe can be given (e.g., bronchodilators, steroidal anti-inflammatory medications).
• If your dog has a heart condition, heart medication may be required.
• Removal of any foreign bodies that are blocking the airway.

How to Prevent Labored Breathing in Dogs

Preventing labored breathing in dogs involves various measures to promote their overall health and well-being. While some causes of labored breathing are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk and support your dog's respiratory health. Here are some preventive measures:

• Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity can put extra strain on a dog's respiratory system, making breathing more difficult. Ensure your dog maintains a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise. 
• Vaccinate and prevent infectious diseases: Follow your veterinarian's recommended vaccination schedule to protect your dog from contagious respiratory diseases, such as kennel cough or canine influenza. 
• Minimize exposure to allergens: Some dogs may be prone to respiratory allergies. Minimize their exposure to common allergens like pollen, dust mites, mold, or certain food ingredients. Keep their living environment clean, use hypoallergenic bedding