If your dog has been enjoying a walk or a play session, you’ve probably noticed them panting with their tongue hanging out. But why do dogs pant?

Panting is a natural behavior for dogs. It helps them cool down, regulate their breathing, and even communicate emotions like excitement or stress. Unlike humans, who sweat to release heat, dogs have very few sweat glands, mostly located on their paw pads and the iconic wet nose. This means they rely on panting as their primary way to prevent overheating.

However, panting isn’t always about temperature control. Sometimes, dogs pant because of excitement, pain, or health issues. While it’s usually harmless, certain types of panting can cause serious problems that might need our attention.

Why Do Dogs Pant?

Whether it's short-term or long-term, a panting dog should be given attention. Here’s everything you need to know about why dogs pant:

1. Cooling Down

One of the most common reasons why dogs pant is to regulate their body temperature. Unlike humans, who sweat to cool down, dogs have very few sweat glands, and those they do have are mainly on their paw pads. This makes sweating an ineffective way for them to release heat. Instead, dogs rely on panting as their primary cooling mechanism.

Dogs rapidly breathe air in and out when they pant. This allows moisture on their tongue, mouth, and upper respiratory tract to evaporate. This evaporation helps lower their body temperature, much like how sweat cools humans when it evaporates from the skin. The faster dogs pant, the more heat they can expel.

2. Physical Activity

Dogs pant simply because they’ve been active. Just like humans breathe harder after a workout, dogs pant to increase oxygen intake after physical exertion. When a dog runs, plays, or engages in any kind of physical activity, their muscles require more oxygen.

The harder a dog exercises, the heavier they will pant. For example, a dog that has been chasing a ball for 10 minutes will pant much more than a dog that simply walked across the yard.

Dog panting after activity is completely normal and should gradually slow down upon rest. Most dogs recover within a few minutes to 15 minutes. This depends on their fitness level, the intensity of the exercise, and the weather conditions.

3. Excitement or Happiness

Sometimes, dogs pant simply because they’re happy or excited. Just like a wagging tail or playful jumps, panting can be a natural way for dogs to express enthusiasm.

When dogs get excited, their heart rate increases. Their bodies also become more active even if they’re not physically exerting themselves. This increase in energy and movement leads to heavier breathing, which is another reason dogs pant.

You may notice this when:

• You come home after being away.

• They’re about to go for a walk or ride in the car.

• They see a favorite toy or another pet they love to play with.

• They’re meeting new people or dogs.

Panting in these situations is usually accompanied by other signs of excitement. Signs like a wagging tail, bright eyes, and playful body language can all mean excitement. Dogs panting from excitement is completely normal and usually stops once they relax.

4. Stress or Anxiety

Sometimes, dogs pant because they are stressed, anxious, or scared. If your dog is panting heavily but hasn’t been exercising or exposed to heat, they can get emotionally disturbed.

When a dog feels anxious, its body releases stress hormones like adrenaline, which increase its heart rate and breathing. This leads to panting as a physical response to anxiety. 

You might notice this type of panting in situations such as:

• Vet visits or medical exams.

• Car rides.

• Fireworks, thunderstorms, or loud noises.

• New environments or unfamiliar people.

• Being left alone.

Stress panting often comes with signs of discomfort like pacing or restlessness. It's a lot different from excitement as it's paired with a happy body language. Occasional stress-related panting is normal. But if your dog pants frequently due to anxiety, it can negatively impact their well-being.

5. Pain or Discomfort

Excessive panting can also be a sign that a dog is in pain or discomfort. When dogs are in pain or uncomfortable, they may pant excessively as a way to cope with pain. This is characterized by increased heart rate and respiration. 

When a dog is in pain, their body responds by increasing heart rate and respiration, which can lead to panting. 

Pain-related dog panting may be caused by:

• Injuries or trauma, such as sprains, cuts, or fractures.

• Internal discomfort, like bloating, stomach issues, or organ disease.

• Post-surgery recovery.

• Arthritis or joint pain, especially in older dogs.

Along with panting, dogs may show other signs of pain and discomfort. These include:

• Whining, whimpering, or groaning.

• Limping or avoiding movement.

• Licking or biting a specific area.

• Restlessness or inability to get comfortable.

• Loss of appetite or reluctance to eat.

6. Heatstroke

One of the most dangerous reasons why dogs pant is heat stroke, a life-threatening condition caused by excessive heat. Normal panting helps dogs cool down. However, panting due to heat stroke is extreme, frantic, and often ineffective at regulating body temperature. 

Heatstroke happens because of extreme heat conditions or too much exercise. This can happen when:

• A dog is left in a hot car, even for a few minutes.

• They exercise in extreme heat without breaks.

• They don’t have access to shade or water in warm weather.

• They are a flat-faced breed or have thick fur.

Dogs pant because of a heat stroke. Here are the signs you'll observe along with panting:

• Excessive drooling.

• Bright red or blue gums and tongue.

• Glassy eyes and confusion.

• Weakness, stumbling, or collapse.

• Vomiting or diarrhea.

7. Heart Disease

Another serious reason why dogs pant is heart disease. When a dog’s heart isn’t working efficiently, their body struggles to circulate oxygen-rich blood. As a result, the dog may pant excessively to compensate for the lack of oxygen and to help regulate their breathing.

A healthy heart pumps blood efficiently, helping deliver oxygen to muscles and organs. When a dog has heart disease, their heart has to work harder.

Signs of heart-related panting include:

• Persistent coughing.

• Lethargy or reluctance to exercise.

• Fainting or collapse.

• Swollen belly due to fluid buildup.

• Rapid or shallow breathing, even when resting.

8. Respiratory Issues

Dogs pant because of respiratory issues. These problems make it harder for them to breathe normally. Panting is part of a dog’s breathing process. Any condition affecting the lungs, airways, or throat can cause excessive or labored panting.

When a dog’s respiratory system isn’t working properly, they struggle to get enough oxygen. This causes them to pant more in an attempt to breathe easier. Several conditions can lead to abnormal panting, including:

• Pneumonia

• Laryngeal Paralysis 

• Collapsed Trachea

• Chronic Bronchitis

If a dog’s panting is due to a respiratory problem, they may also show:

• Coughing or wheezing.

• Bluish gums or tongue.

• Shallow or labored breathing.

• Fatigue or reluctance to move.

9. Obesity

One of the most common reasons why dogs pant excessively is obesity. Carrying extra weight puts more strain on a dog’s body. Doing so makes everyday activities like walking, playing, and even breathing more difficult. Ultimately, it leads dogs to pant.

Excess fa makes it harder for a dog to regulate body temperature. Even with minimal exertion, dogs will pant. In some cases, it can become excessive. This is why it’s important to help your dogs lose weight.

If your dog is overweight and pants more than usual, look for other signs, such as:

• Panting after minimal activity, like walking a short distance.

• Difficulty getting up or moving around.

• Wheezing or labored breathing.

• Lack of stamina and frequent need to rest.

10. Allergic Reactions or Poisoning

In some cases, dogs pant excessively because of a medical emergency, such as an allergic reaction or poisoning. or poisoning. When a dog ingests something toxic or has a severe allergic response, their body reacts by increasing heart rate. This triggers respiratory distress and causes excessive panting.

Dogs can have allergic reactions to foods, insect bites, medications, or environmental allergens. In mild cases, allergies may cause itching or sneezing. However, severe allergic reactions can cause rapid, heavy panting and swelling.

Signs of a severe allergic reaction include:

• Sudden, excessive panting.

• Swollen face, lips, or throat.

• Red, irritated skin.

• Drooling and pawing at the mouth.

• Weakness or collapse.

Additionally, panting may be one of the first symptoms if a dog consumes something toxic. Toxins can affect the nervous system, heart, or lungs, leading to rapid breathing, confusion, or even seizures.

Common household snacks and toxins that can cause excessive panting include:

• Chocolate.

• Grapes and raisins.

• Xylitol.

• Certain human medications.

• Household cleaners and pesticides.

• Toxic plants like lilies or sago palms.

What to Do if Your Dog is Panting Excessively

Take the right steps if your dog is panting more than usual. Dogs pant for various reasons and when we catch these clues, we can help our best friends feel better.

Here's how you can do it:

1. Check for Triggers. If you notice your dog panting, take a step back to analyze the situation. If your dog has been playing or if the temperature seems warm, these might be the reasons.
   
   

2. Help Your Dog Cool Down. If your dog might be overheating, move them to a cooler environment immediately. If so, allow them to rest in a cool, shaded area and provide fresh water. Your dog should get better in a few minutes.
   
   

3. Look for Signs of Illness. If this doesn't work, your dog's panting might be caused by other health issues. Check for any accompanying symptoms such as drooling, pale gums, or lethargy. These signs can be indicative of a health problem.
   
   

4. Monitor Breathing Pattern. If your dog’s panting is loud, raspy, or unusually rapid, this could be a respiratory problem. Prolonged panting can also become a sign. Dogs struggling to breathe normally may also stand with their neck extended or avoid lying down.
   
   

5. Check for Stress. If your dog is panting excessively but is in a comfortable environment, consider whether they may be anxious. Look for other stress signals like pacing, whining, trembling, or hiding. Gentle petting and attention can be quick fixes. You can also give their favorite treats.
   
   

6. Look for Signs of Pain or Injury. If there’s no clear reason for the panting, inspect your dog for injuries, swelling, or signs of discomfort. Dogs in pain may pant more as a response to stress and increased heart rate.
   
   

7. Avoid Exercising in Hot Weather. If your dog pants excessively after even light activity, they may be struggling with their body temperature. Limit outdoor activities to cooler times of the day, and always ensure they have access to shade and water.

Paying attention to the small signs is the key to understanding your dog's health, emotions, and unspoken needs.

- Dr. Soheyl Simaei

FAQs About Dog Panting

1. When should I worry about dog panting?

   
   

   If your dog’s panting becomes excessive or comes with symptoms like vomiting or lethargy, call the vets. These could signal heatstroke, heart disease, pain, or respiratory issues. These issues should be given attention.

   
   

2. How do you calm down a panting dog?

   
   Move your dog to a cool, quiet area, offer water, and use a damp towel on their paws and belly. This will make them feel relaxed. If it's stress-related panting, try gentle petting, soothing words, or calming aids.

   
   

3. Why do dogs pant when it’s not hot?

   
   Dogs pant due to exercise, excitement, stress, pain, or medical conditions like heart or respiratory issues. If your dog is panting when it's not hot, this could be because of a health problem.

Conclusion

So, why do dogs pant? In most cases, it’s completely normal. Dogs pant to cool down, recover from exercise, or express excitement.

However, excessive or unusual panting can also be a sign of stress, pain, or obesity. It can also mean serious health conditions like heart disease, heatstroke, or poisoning.

As our dogs’ caretakers, paying attention to your best friend's panting habits can help you catch potential problems early. If your dog is panting more than usual and showing other concerning symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact us.