Why Does My Dog Pant So Much After A Walk?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Why do dogs pant after exercise? The first reason why dogs pant after exercise is because

it helps them to cool down

. When muscles move, they generate heat, so your dog will be much warmer after some activity and will need to pant to cool down.

How long after a walk should a dog stop panting?

Outside temperature also plays a role. An in-shape, healthy dog typically pants for around

10 minutes

after vigorous exercise, though this can vary widely depending on various circumstances. Discover when panting could be problematic and when it warrants a trip to the vet.

How do I know if my dog is panting too much?

  1. Fast, shallow breathing.
  2. Panting with their tongue curling upwards.
  3. Not wanting to move/low energy.
  4. Stretching out their neck.

How do I get my dog to stop panting after walking?

Toward the end of the run, power walk or hike,

gradually slow down and walk casually for several minutes to allow your dog’s body temperature and heart rate to slow down

. You might even consider giving your dog a muscle rub-down or help her to stretch her limbs once you get home.

How do you calm a dog from panting?

  1. Cool your dog by wetting them with a hose, and move them indoors or at least to the shade.
  2. Offer them water to drink.
  3. Call your veterinarian or a local emergency hospital for guidance.
  4. If you have to bring your dog to the hospital, run the air conditioner in your car.

Why is my dog panting so fast while resting?

If you notice that your dog is breathing fast while at rest, or breathing fast while sleeping, they could be experiencing

respiratory distress

. Contact your vet if you notice any of the following signs: Noticeably labored breathing (engaging stomach muscles to help breathe) Pale, blue-tinged or brick red gums.

Why is my dog panting at rest?

Panting may have nothing to do with body temperature.

Many dogs will pant when they experience fear, anxiety, or stress

. Examples include car rides, fireworks, separation anxiety, vet visits, and other stressful events.

Why is my dog panting while resting?

Why is my dog panting? Dogs pant

to regulate their temperature

. Unlike humans, dogs aren’t able to regulate their temperature using sweat so instead, they pant to circulate cool air through their bodies and to evaporate water from the mouth and upper respiratory tract.

Why won’t my dog quit panting?

Dogs may pant for a combination of reasons, including

pain and anxiety or weight issues and medication side effects

. Monitoring your dog’s behavior to determine whether it is related to temperature or only happens during certain situations (like thunderstorms) may help explain why your dog won’t stop panting.

What causes a dog to pant heavily?

Excessive panting is a common symptom of

discomfort or pain

. In fact, dogs who are uncomfortable often exhibit panting well before more obvious indicators of pain, such as whining or limping, arise. When the heart is doing an inadequate job of pumping blood around the body, the tissues become deprived of oxygen.

How long should my dog be panting?


Most dogs don’t pant for long and their breathing is back to normal within a few minutes

. But if your pooch is panting for longer than 10 minutes then it’s a sign that they are probably overheating or suffering from another illness. Abnormal panting can be a sign of illness.

How can I help my dog breathe easier?


Run a humidifier

: A humidifier will loosen and eventually reduce the amount of mucous in your dog’s lungs. A cold-moisture humidifier works best to add moisture to the air in your house. Consider adding a few drops of lavender or eucalyptus oil to the humidifier to make it easier for your dog to breathe indoors.

Why is my dog breathing fast with his tongue out?

Moderate to rapid open-mouthed respiration is

a normal dog and puppy behavior that lowers body temperature and also gets oxygen into the dog’s bloodstream

. The panting dog breathes with its mouth open and tongue somewhat protruding.

Do dogs pant when they are nervous?


Dogs pant when hot, excited, or stressed

. If your dog is panting even though he has not exercised, he may be experiencing stress. Changes in bodily functions. Like people, nervous dogs can feel a sudden urge to go to the bathroom.

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.