How to Ease Shortness of Breath in Dogs

As opposed to humans, who will train for months for a race or even a hike, dogs normally take vigorous exercise in stride, often running circles around their human companions. But if your dog is panting unusually hard or spending more time than usual catching his breath, you need to investigate the cause. Shortness of breath in dogs can be the result of a variety of physical conditions, and some are easier to fix than others.

Things You'll Need

• low-calorie, high-fiber dog food
• heartworm medication
• humidifier

Instructions

What you can do to help your dog breathe easier

1. Since breathing problems are often caused by excess weight, check your dog's midsection. Feel his side, and if you can't feel his ribs, he probably needs to lose a little weight. Switch to a low-calorie, high-fiber dog food, and quit slipping him leftovers from the table. If he hasn't lost any weight in a few weeks, consider cutting back the amount of dog food you're feeding him, or ask the advice of your veterinarian.

2. Heartworms live in a dog's heart and lungs, and make breathing difficult. If left untreated, they can create serious health problems for your dog, such as congestive heart failure. Have your veterinarian test your dog for heartworm, and follow his advice regarding medications that kill heartworms before they have a chance to grow and harm your dog.

3. Dogs can be plagued by asthma, a condition that always requires a vet's care. If your dog is asthmatic and is having trouble breathing, add moisture to the air with a humidifier or take your pet into a steamy bathroom so that the warm, moist air will help unclog his breathing tubes.

4. If you suspect that your dog has swallowed an object and his breathing is being obstructed, take him to the vet immediately. Don't try to open his mouth, as the dog will be under extreme stress and may bite you.

Tips & Warnings

• If your dog is having trouble breathing and you are transporting him to the vet, put him in front of the air conditioning vent of your vehicle---it will help him breathe a little easier.

• Heartworms are carried by mosquitoes. Therefore, it is wise to avoid moist, swampy areas where mosquitoes thrive and the risk of your dog contracting heartworm may be higher.

• If your dog is having trouble breathing even with mild exertion, like climbing stairs, you should seek the advice of your vet immediately.

References

• i Village
• Pet Place

Resources

• Dog Owners Guide