Mary Allen
How severe your dog’s tachypnea is depended on what is causing the rapid breathing. You should take your dog to the vet as soon as possible so they can assess how serious the danger is and what is the most effective way to treat rapid breathing.
There are a variety of variables that affect breathing rate in dogs, and the underlying problem can often be life-threatening, especially if it occurs when your dog is at rest. If your dog’s breathing rate exceeds 30 breaths per minute, you should be on guard as this is considered excessively rapid. Tachypnea is excessive and rapid breathing at rest, which can be a sign of the following conditions:
- Heatstroke is a medical condition that occurs when the body is overheated.
- Presence of fluid in the lungs
- insufficiency of the heart
- anemia
- Onion poisoning is a serious condition.
WHEN DOGS REST, THEY TEND TO BREATHE FASTER THAN HUMANS
There can be a number of factors that contribute to your dog’s rapid breathing when at rest. It is typical for him to pant or breathe rapidly for a few minutes when he has just finished a strenuous game and is taking a break. If his breathing doesn’t calm down, or he’s breathing quickly without making an effort, he may have breathing problems from an underlying medical condition.
HEATSTROKE
Dogs don’t have sweat glands and need to breathe to keep themselves cool. When they get hot, they breathe rapidly and excessively. Heatstroke, sometimes referred to as hyperthermia, is characterized by abnormally high body temperatures of 103 F or more, drooling, paralysis, and convulsions. Because they are unable to pant effectively, flat-faced dogs like Pugs, Boxers, Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, Lhasa Apsos, Shih Tzus, and Bull Mastiffs are at an increased risk of heatstroke.
FLUID IN THE LUNGS
Your dog’s rapid breathing may also indicate he has fluid in his lungs. While a small amount of fluid in a dog’s lungs is normal, excessive accumulation can cause significant health problems and indicate the presence of other medical issues. Other symptoms, such as blue gums, a low body temperature, and difficulty breathing, may be associated with rapid breathing.
FAILURE OF THE HEART
Rapid breathing is a possible symptom of heart failure. When a dog’s heart begins to fail, the body is unable to circulate enough oxygen and will breathe more rapidly to compensate for the reduced oxygen levels in the blood. Breathing can also become faster if fluid builds up in the lungs and the lungs are being compressed by an enlarged liver and/or abdominal fluid. Dogs suffering from heart failure often develop a chronic cough. Breathing also becomes more difficult and your dog’s resilience may be reduced.
ANEMIA
Anemia can develop when your dog’s immune system mistakes the red blood cells for an alien threat, when your dog is losing blood, or when the bone marrow does not produce enough red blood cells. A reduced red blood cell count indicates reduced oxygen saturation, and your dog’s body may respond by breathing more. Other symptoms of anemia include fatigue, weakness, jaundice, pale gums, and lethargy. Certain breeds such as Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers, Miniature Schnauzers, and Shih Tzus are prone to anemia. Tick-borne infectious diseases have also been linked to immune-related anemia.
POISONING FROM ONIONS
A dog’s diet is vital to its health and giving it table scraps intended for human consumption can have harmful consequences. When onions are ingested in large amounts or over a long period of time, they can cause your dog to breathe more rapidly due to the hemolytic anemia they induce. In addition, your dog may salivate excessively, vomit, or have diarrhea. Garlic is a stronger poison than onions and should also be avoided.
LUNG DISEASE
Diseases of the upper and lower respiratory tract can lead to rapid breathing. Tracheal collapse, laryngeal paralysis, bronchitis, lungworm, pneumothorax, and pneumonia are possible causes.
HOW WILL THE VET DETERMINE WHAT IS THE CAUSE OF MY DOG’S RAPID BREATHING?
Your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical exam to determine if your dog’s breathing difficulties are caused by a problem with the heart, circulatory system, lungs, respiratory system, throat, or head. Your pet’s general health can also play a role.
Your vet will ask about your dog’s previous medical problems and may order diagnostic tests like chest x-rays to look for lung tumors or broken ribs. In addition, the vet will look for signs of worry, stress, or other psychological issues that may be affecting your dog’s rapid breathing.
HOW IS RAPID BREATHING IN DOG TREATMENT?
The underlying cause of your dog’s breathing problems will ultimately determine the best course of action. Your veterinarian may prescribe pain relievers, IV fluids, or other medications for your dog to help rehabilitate them. If your dog’s rapid breathing is due to stress or anxiety, training with a trained canine behaviorist may be recommended.
Rest and oxygen therapy are certainly required to get your dog on the mend. While most dogs recover adequately at home, in certain extreme situations, hospitalization may be necessary to monitor the dog’s breathing and treat the underlying health issue.