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Why is my dog shaking, panting, and rubbing face after painting?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 4 years and 1 month old | 23 lbs

My landlord painted the basement which is RIGHT below my apartment, and I think my dog is being affected by the fumes or smell or something. he is shaking, panting, and he really really wants to be outside. when I take him outside, he stops shaking and panting, but he gets very frisky and energetic and he rubs his face in the grass. He does not normally do these things. Tonight, I will take him to be at my boyfriend's house, but I just want to understand what is making him act this way.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Eryn Taormina, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 12th, 2018

Hi there! I am sorry to hear about Soda Pop's troubles. He very well could be sensitive to the paint fumes in the apartment below you as dogs have a very keen sense of smell. It also may be why he is rubbing his muzzle in the grass. I think it's great that you'll be spending a night away from the place to see how he acts. If he is fine, there's your answer. If he is still acting abnormally, it may be a good idea to sit and think of anything he could possibly have gotten into in your apartment - prescription drugs, toxins, etc. He may be having a reaction to something else, and the paint smell is a coincidence. If you think of anything, poison control is just a phone call away, and they usually have the most up and coming treatment recommendations for toxin ingestion of any kind.
I hope you find this answer helpful! Best of luck!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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