Panting is a normal behavior dogs use to regulate their body temperature. However, dogs pant for other reasons as well, and panting can sometimes indicate a medical issue. Our team at Sonoran Sky Pet Hospital answers frequently asked questions about why dogs pant so you can differentiate between normal panting and panting that may indicate a problem. 

Is panting normal? 

Panting is a completely natural behavior that dogs use to regulate their body temperature, especially when they are active or in hot weather. Dogs have few sweat glands, with most located on their feet, so they can’t sweat to cool themselves like people. When a dog pants, they rapidly inhale and exhale air, causing moisture in their oral and nasal cavities to evaporate, which helps cool them down. 

Why does my dog pant before we’ve even started our walk? 

Dogs also pant when they’re happy or excited. Knowing they’re about to go on a walk excites your dog, so you might notice them panting in anticipation. Excitement-induced panting is usually more rapid than heat-related panting, and typically doesn’t last long. 

Do dogs pant when they are afraid?

Yes, some dogs pant when they are afraid or in an unfamiliar environment. Your dog might pant during car rides, at the vet, or in response to something they’re unfamiliar with. Identifying situations that trigger a fear response in your dog can help you understand your dog’s panting behavior and allows you to remove them from stressful situations. 

Why does my dog pant after hearing loud noises? 

Similar to fear-induced panting, dogs often pant when they are stressed or anxious. This often occurs as a response to loud noises, like fireworks, or when they experience separation anxiety. Although panting as a response to these emotions is normal, you should try to minimize or eliminate situations that are stressful to your dog. Situations that cause your dog anxiety cannot be fixed overnight, but you may be able to reduce their anxiety by slowing desensitizing them to stress triggers. 

Why does my dog pant when they are at rest? 

When dogs pant in normal circumstances or at rest, this can be a sign of an underlying medical issue, such as: 

  • Heatstroke — If your dog is panting excessively in a hot environment they may be overheating. Heatstroke develops when a dog’s body temperature rises above normal, such as when they spend time in the sun, a parked car, or a home without air conditioning. Other signs of heatstroke include excessive thirst, disorientation, lethargy, collapse, and seizures. If you think your dog is overheated, move them to an air-conditioned building, give them cool water to drink, and wet their body with cool water. If they do not improve quickly, rush them to the nearest veterinary hospital.
  • Heart disease — Heart problems occur when a dog’s heart is unable to pump blood properly, which disrupts the flow of blood and oxygen throughout the body. Uncontrolled heart disease often leads to congestive heart failure, (CHF), which causes fluid to build up in a dog’s lungs. This often causes labored breathing that may be confused with panting.  
  • Respiratory problems —  Respiratory problems can interfere with normal breathing and adequate oxygen intake, which can also lead to difficulty breathing. 
  • Cushing’s disease — Cushing’s disease is a condition in dogs caused by an overproduction of the hormone cortisol. Cushing’s disease can cause panting as well as excessive thirst and appetite, increased urination, hair loss, and lethargy. 

When your dog pants, it’s likely because they are hot or excited. However, panting can also indicate a serious problem. If you’re concerned about your dog’s behavior, don’t hesitate to contact our Sonoran Sky Pet Hospital team.