Why Do Dogs Pant?

Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.

Dogs pant to cool down, but sometimes their heavy breathing can leave you wondering if something’s wrong. Unlike humans, dogs don’t rely on sweat glands to regulate their body temperature. Instead, they “sweat” through their mouth, nasal passages, and lungs.

While panting is a normal way for dogs to regulate their body temperature, it can also signal stress, excitement, or even health concerns. However, excessive panting may signal an underlying health issue that requires veterinary care.

Keep reading to discover the most common reasons why dogs pant, which dogs are likely to pant more, when to consult a veterinarian, and how to calm down a panting dog.

Common Reasons Dogs Pant

Here are a few common reasons why dogs pant, ranging from natural cooling and excitement to signs of stress, pain, or potential health issues that may require attention.

1. They’re cooling down

Dogs mainly pant to cool down when they get too hot, says Dr. Nell Ostermeier, DVM, CVA, FAAVA, a veterinarian and spokesperson for Figo Pet Insurance. For example, you’ll often see this after a morning walk on a warm day.

So why do dogs pant with their tongues out? When a dog is hot, they open their mouth to pant. The moisture on their tongue and mouth evaporates, bringing in oxygen and helping lower their body temperature.

2. They’re excited

Whether your dog is excited for a treat, a walk, or seeing a friend, you may notice them panting.

Rest assured, it’s common for dogs to pant when they’re excited or happy. They might also whine, jump around, or bark.

3. They’ve been exercising

Just like in hot weather, dogs pant to help regulate their body temperature after physical activity. Running, fetching, or playing with other dogs can raise their body temperature, so panting allows them to cool down.

The quick, shallow breaths help evaporate moisture from their mouth and tongue, releasing excess heat. It’s a natural way for dogs to stay comfortable after exercise.

4. They’re stressed or anxious

Dogs may pant when stressed, such as during thunderstorms or vet visits. This is a natural response to fear or perceived threats.

Other signs of stress or anxiety in dogs include:

Do Some Dog Breeds Pant More?

“Some dogs may pant more than others due to their anatomy of their airways, if they are highly active breeds, the size of the dog, their weight, and their anxiety levels,” says Dr. Dwight Alleyne, DVM, a Georgia-based small animal veterinarian with JustAnswer.

Our experts say brachycephalic breeds, larger dogs, and overweight dogs are likelier to pant more. Some of these breeds include:

While some dogs, like Beagles and Dalmatians, handle hot weather well, pant-prone dogs are at higher risk for heatstroke and need extra care to stay cool.

When to Worry About Your Dog’s Panting

It’s normal for dogs to pant when they’re warm, excited, stressed, or after exercise. However, excessive panting might happen:

When they’re breathing heavily while sleeping
After a stressful situation
When they’re cold
If there are additional signs of distress or lethargy

“In breeds that are prone to panting, excessive panting is considered if it is heavy even with minimal activity or if there are signs of snorting or gagging,” Dr. Alleyne says.

If your pup won’t stop, Dr. Alleyne says to take them to a vet. Go to the emergency vet immediately if they’re acting weird, collapsing, or their gums are turning blue.

How to Manage Your Dog’s Panting

While panting is often nothing to worry about, pet parents worried about their pup can help manage it if needed. Below are some surefire tips to keep your dog comfortable:

Manage their anxiety: Start by identifying what’s causing your dog’s anxiety. Once you know the trigger, address it with tools like a ThunderShirt, a consistent routine, medications, or other methods recommended by your vet.
Cool them down: Keep your dog cool by providing fresh water, shade, or a kiddie pool. Homemade frozen treats and a damp towel can also help them beat the heat. Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours to ensure their safety.
Create safe spaces: Set up a quiet, comfortable area where your dog can feel secure. A crate or closed-off space with their bed, blankets, toys, and calming treats can help them relax and unwind.
Use calming aids: For dogs with high stress levels, calming aids may help. Always consult your vet to find the best option for your pup’s needs.

Why Is My Dog Panting?