Why is my 13-year-old dog breathing heavily, even when sleeping?

If you are noticing a change in respiration, she needs to see the veterinarian quickly. Changes in respiration can indicate severe heart disease, fluid in the lungs, pneumonia, tumors in the chest or something impairing the movement in the diaphragm. She may not be laying down because she can't breath well in that position. Respiratory issues should always be checked out quickly. The veterinarian may need a chest x-ray to know whats going on. Best of luck and please feel free to post any additional questions.

Hi. It sounds like he is having respiratory signs. This could be from many things such as....upper respiratory infection, cardiac disease, primary respiratory disease, cancers, or other infectious causes. With his age, he needs a full exam, labs, and chest x-rays. If he is in respiratory distress, you will want to go to the ER.

Heavy breathing while sleeping can be a sign of heart disease. I would highly recommend getting Sadie evaluated by your veterinarian for a cardiac work-up and listen to see if she has any murmurs or arrhythmias that could be causing this. Another possible cause is a primary lung disease.

It is concerning that Coco is breathing heavily when she is sleeping - I'd be concerned that the cough could be due to heart disease or a respiratory disease. I'd recommend having your vet examine Coco. They might recommend chest x-rays as the first step.

Hopefully it's nothing but anytime you notice a change in the breathing character, you should pay attention. I advise to make an appointment with your veterinarian who will listen to her heart and lungs as well as check her throat for any abnormalities. There are may reason this could happen and its best to be safe. Avoid heavy activity until she is checked out. I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions.

I am so sorry your older dog Miss Mattie is experiencing breathing issues and also seem uncomfortable. These symptoms are very worrisome and b/c of the breathing problems alone, I highly recommend having her seen by your vet right away. She could have a number of things going on including: heart disease, an infection, bronchitis, or even just pain from an internal organ issue. We need more information and testing to determine what the underlying problem is so that we can best help her moving forward. I do hope that you can take Miss Mattie in to the vet soon for proper testing and treatment and hope that she can feel well soon! Best of luck moving forward. Take care.

I'm so sorry to hear that! Please get him in to see a vet. Your vet will probably recommend a chest X-ray to get a better idea of what is going on. In a 9 year old chihuahua some possible causes include heart failure, pneumonia, or cancer. If he seems labored in his breathing, do not delay, please take him to the vet right away.