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My dog is on Prednisone. Is his rapid breathing a normal side effect?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 11 years and 11 months old | 22 lbs

Bear is on Prednisone and now has rapid breathing ? Normal? Not ok?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Stacey Anstaett, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 16th, 2019

Prednisone can cause panting, but it shouldn't change the character of their breathing. (The panting should be the same sound/speed as his normal pant is). If it doesn't seem like he's just panting, get him in to see your vet. If he has other symptoms as well (coughing, labored breathing, vomiting, lethargy, etc) please seek emergency care.
Thank you for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

6Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on February 9th, 2020
Panting occurs with prednisone for a number of reasons - the drug can cause some muscle weakness and can cause an enlarged liver that can push on the diaphragm. I also would wonder however if the panting might have another cause as well - you may want to have Dusty examined for this issue in particular to make sure it isn't a sign of pain or respiratory disease. While I'm not entirely sure what sacral disease Dusty has been diagnosed with most diseases that would be treated with prednisone would need to be managed over time and not cured.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on December 9th, 2019
Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Rocco. No, it typically does not cause an increase in breathing. Prednisone causes increased thirst and urination, increased appetite, lethargy, vomiting, and diarrhea. If his breathing is really fast, I'd take him into a vet now. Best of luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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