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Why does my German Shepherd pant after naps with low heart rate?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | neutered | 94 lbs

Hello! I've been noticing my 1,5 year old German Shepherd sometimes wakes up from a nap and pants. I don't know how he is at night because he doesn't sleep in my room but during the day he goes on my bed to nap and sometimes wakes up panting. My room isn't particularly hot and he's breathing normally slow when resting. His heart rate is around 40-50 hpm. Should I be worried? Thank you!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 13th, 2018

Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your concern. If your calculated heart rate is indeed this low, either Nor is extremely athletic or has an abnormally low heart rate. This could contribute to the panting if he has a heart condition. I would recommend having Nor examined by a veterinarian so that the most appropriate diagnostic and treatment recommendations can be made. A lot can be determined just from a physical examination. This may be absolutely nothing to worry about but with a heart rate this low, I would have a veterinarian assess him further. Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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