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Why is my dog panting heavily when awake but normal when sleeping?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Belgian Shepherd | Female | spayed | 1 year and 11 months old | 60 lbs

I have noticed for the past two days my dog sometimes pants and breathes a bit heavy. When she is sleeping, she breathes normally. This only happens when she is sitting down or sometimes she gets up at night around 3am and sits next to my bed for me to scratch her and that’s when I also notice this happens. She eats, drinks, plays. Her behavior is normal. I would describe the breathing as sort of bouncing. It can be due to hot weather. However, at night I have the fan on and doesn’t feel hot.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 9th, 2020

Hello. If Bella's breathing appears normal when she sleeps, then this is not too concerning, but it would not hurt to have her evaluated just to be sure. She is too young for most chronic conditions, but if she is not on any heartworm preventative, this would be a good thing to check on. Hopefully all is well & thanks for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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