We are used to seeing our canine companions pant or breathe heavily when they get excited or get in lots of exercise, but what about at night when they are laying down and sleeping or relaxing? Today, our Lacey vets discuss the reasons why your dog pants at night and when it may be a cause for concern.
When it comes to dogs panting is a completely normal part of how their body works and just as humans sweat, dogs use panting as a way to cool down and regulate their temperature. However, there are times when a dog panting might be unusual, such as at night or while they are resting.
What Are Some Reasons Why My Dog Pants So Much?
Panting can occur for a plethora of reasons such as excitement, playtime, exercise, hot days and many other common reasons. Panting and restless behavior (e.g. pacing) in mild or ideal weather conditions or during the night when it is cooler could be a sign of something more serious. Some of the potential reasons for excessive panting could include:
- Cushing’s Disease. This is when the bloodstream has a buildup of too much cortisol. Along with panting, other symptoms of Cushing's Disease in dogs include an increase in thirst, increased hunger, frequent urination, hair loss, and a pot-bellied appearance. This issue is commonly seen in senior dogs and is often one of the reasons for abnormal heavy panting.
- Respiratory disease. Respiratory issues impact your dog's ability to breathe, making it hard for them to receive the oxygen their bloodstream needs to carry throughout their body. A dog with respiratory issues might pant heavily or struggle to breathe after even light exercise. If you notice your canine companion's tongue is no longer a healthy pink but instead blue, purple, or grey, head to the vet immediately for treatment; your dog may be experiencing oxygen deprivation.
- Heart disease. Excessive panting and coughing can be a symptom of heart disease or failure, which can majorly impact your dog's ability to breathe. In these cases, you may notice your dog panting heavily after walking for a short distance.
- Heatstroke. Heatstroke in dogs is a serious issue and can have fatal consequences if left untreated. Heatstroke in dogs is more likely in temperatures over 106°F (41°C) and causes heavy panting, which leads to dehydration. High temperatures are especially hard on short-nosed breeds like pugs, but you must never leave a dog of any breed alone in a car in warm weather, as they can overheat or suffer from heatstroke quickly.
Why Your Dog Pants So Much At Night
If you find that your dog is panting throughout the night then it may be because of one of the reasons listed below:
- Stress or anxiety. This can be caused by upsetting events like loud thunderstorms or fireworks, or issues like separation anxiety.
- Environmental issues. Puppies and senior dogs have a harder time coping with high nighttime temperatures, and dogs with untreated allergies often have disrupted sleep.
- Pain or Discomfort. Dogs experiencing pain from an injury or a condition such as arthritis may exhibit nighttime panting and/or pacing behaviors. (e.g. injury, arthritis, allergies)
- Canine Cognitive Disorder (dog dementia). Dogs affected by this disorder often have disturbed sleep-wake cycles and may exhibit excessive panting and restlessness.
When is Panting in Dogs a Concern?
If your dog exhibits symptoms of excessive nighttime panting, pacing, or other anxious behaviors get in touch with your vet to find out whether your dog should be seen by them. If you spot any signs of heatstroke in your dog, immediately take them for urgent veterinary care during clinic hours, or treatment after hours at a nearby emergency veterinary hospital. Your veterinarian will examine your canine companion, perform any necessary diagnostic and treatment procedures, and work with you to help your dog feel better today and tomorrow.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.