Normal Respiratory Rate in Dogs
According to "Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook," the average number of times a dog breathes is 24 breaths per minute. But, depending on the weather and the dog's activity level, a normal respiratory rate for dogs is anywhere from 10 to 30 breaths per minute. Faster breathing is a sign that something is wrong with the dog.
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Puppies
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The "Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook" goes on to mention that newborn puppies will have a faster breathing rate than older puppies, often between 15 to 35 breaths per minute. But, by the time the puppy is two weeks old, the respiratory rate will have decreased to 10 to 30 breaths per minute.
Identification
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If the dog is panting with an open mouth, count the up and down movement in order to count the dog's breathing rate. If the dog is not panting or if seeing the tongue move is difficult, then count the number of times the chest rises and falls. Either set a timer or use a watch with a second hand to count the number of breaths in a minute.
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Weight
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Dogs that are overweight will be far more prone to panting too quickly than dogs at an ideal weight. This is because the excess weight makes it harder for them to breathe. It also makes the dog's heart less able to efficiently pump oxygen throughout the body; the dog pants to get enough air to survive.
Medications
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According to "The Veterinarian's Guide to Your Dog's Symptoms," dogs on cortisone medications will rarely pant at a high rate, even when the weather is not hot and they have not done any exercise. This is an unusual side effect; call the vet if this happens.
Warning
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Panting, or breathing rapidly with the mouth open, can be a symptom of pain or a serious medical condition such as heart failure. If the panting is accompanied by any other symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, change of color of the tongue, coordination problems or refusal to move, get the dog to the vet immediately.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Wikimedia Commons
