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Why is my adopted dog breathing fast while resting? Is she okay?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Miniature Schnauzer | Female | spayed | 8 years old | 16 lbs

We just adopted an 8 y/o mini Schnauzer, 16 lbs. She seems to be resting and at ease but her respiration rate is right around 80 breaths per min. No reported illnesses. Is she okay? Just anxious of new surroundings?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Daniel Fonza, DVM

Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 19th, 2017

While this respiratory rate is higher than the normal resting respiratory rate for a normal dog, some dogs have a higher resting respiratory rate and this May be hers. As long as her activity level is normal, she is eating and drinking and going to the bathroom okay I would just keep an eye on her and continue to monitor this. If it appears that she is in any sort of respiratory distress and she is using her abdominal muscles to breathe more, I would get her seen by a vet immediately. If she hasn't had a health exam since you adopted her I would get her seen by a vet for a routine check-up just to make sure everything is okay. I hope this helps! Please feel free to contact me if you have any other questions or concerns. I am also available via phone or text consultation.
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