Why is my dog panting excessively? Is it normal or should I see a vet?

Excessive panting is concerning for a lung, heart, or blood problem. Considering these all have potential to be serious diseases, it's best to have Hershey evaluated by a vet sometime soon. The vet will be able to tell if there is any need for concern and can give you good advice on how to help correct this problem. I hope that helps and all is well with Hershey.

Oh no, poor Sammy! This panting could be caused by being too hot, cardiac disease, respiratory disease, respiratory distress, or pain. Given that Sammy has been panting for a long time, I would recommend having him seen by a vet right away. The vet can diagnose what is causing his panting and can treat him for it.

It sounds like Peanut is in pain. That would cause him to whine and breathe fast. Without seeing him in person, I can't say for sure if he's in pain, and what could be causing it. If he's really distressed, I'd have him seen by a vet now. Please take him into an ER vet clinic; if there isn't one in your area, there will be a vet on call for emergencies. The information to reach that vet is found on a clinic's answering machine or website. Best of luck.

These are vague signs that could indicate several things like anxiety or pain. If there is something they could be making him anxious (rain, thunder, fireworks, new people, etc), then he will calm down afterwards. Just give him some extra attention. If there is nothing you can think that is making him anxious he could be in discomfort. I would have your vet do an exam to make sure he doesn't need any pain medication. I would not give net human pain meds as most of these are toxic to dogs. I hope this helps!

I can understand your concern about Leona's increased panting. As you know, dogs can pant for a ton of different reasons. Some of these can include behavioral issues, such as anxiety, or medical problems, such as heart or lung diseases, heat stroke (unlikely in this case, I understand), or pain from an injury or arthritis. I'm glad that you've tried to actively cool Leona by using the air conditioner and by grooming her. Since it doesn't sound like that's changed her panting, I think it would be best to take her to the vet for a full physical exam. Your vet will be able to listen to her heart and lungs, and check her for sources of pain. It's really important to rule out any medical causes of this excessive panting, as some can be quite serious. If medical issues have been ruled out, your vet will be able to discuss possible causes and treatments of anxiety. I hope this helps and that all goes well!

How lovely of you to take in this dog! This panting could be due to stress, pain, or a medical condition like heart disease. If you don't want to keep her, take her into the shelter in the morning; otherwise, have her seen by a vet tomorrow should you want to keep her.

This may be due to allergies, infection, laryngeal paralysis or hyperthermia just to name a few causes. In an older dog, heart disease cannot be ruled out. Respiratory distress should be addressed as soon as possible by your veterinarian or at the nearest veterinary ER. If it is hot outside or inside, remove Burt to a cooler area. Use a fan and cool cloths to gradually cool him off.