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Difficulty breathing can affect any dog, regardless of age, gender, or breed. They can include a number of symptoms, depending on the underlying cause of the condition.
If you discover that your dog is having breathing problems, it is important to see a doctor right away. Keep in mind, however, that after intense exercise, increased panting can easily return to normal with some time and rest.
If you are seeing signs that your dog may be having trouble breathing normally, then You need to consult your veterinarian for correct diagnosis and treatment. Here’s what you should know about the symptoms, causes, and treatments for breathing difficulties in dogs.
Symptoms of Difficulty Breathing in Dogs
Difficulty breathing in dogs can lead to a range of symptoms, depending on both the underlying cause of the problem and the breed of dog.
Some of the most common symptoms are:
- Shortness of breath (known as dyspnoea)
- Very fast breathing (known as tachypnea)
- Breathing through an open mouth
- Bloat nostrils
- Loud breathing
- Very shallow breathing
Causes of Difficulty Breathing in Dogs
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Difficulty breathing in dogs can result from a number of underlying problems.
In the case of shortness of breath, the causes can be infections, tumors, lung diseases and heartworm.
When a dog has tachypnea, the cause can be low levels of red blood cells, lower than normal levels of oxygen in the blood, and blood clots.
When a dog gasps excessively, there are a number of causes that can include fever, obesity, high blood pressure, and anxiety.
Veterinary treatments
If you notice your dog is prone to breathing difficulties, contact a veterinarian right away. The condition is considered an emergency.
The veterinarian will ask questions about the dog’s medical history and any current circumstances or incidents that may have led to the disease. In addition, the dog’s chest, breathing, and gums will be closely examined to see if any changes in color could indicate the cause of the problem.
Veterinarians may also use chest x-rays, an electrocardiogram (EKG), and detailed blood tests to evaluate the dog and make a diagnosis.
When treating, the exact course depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, dogs may need hospitalization to stabilize their condition.
If your veterinarian prescribes medication for your dog to help him breathe, it is important that you follow the recommended dosage and frequency instructions, and complete all of the medication.
Has your dog started having difficulty breathing? Did your vet figure out what caused the problems? Tell us all about it in the comments below.