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Why is my senior dog pacing, panting, and so thirsty every evening?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 10 years and 10 months old | 100 lbs

Senior dog pacing and panting in the evenings and very thirsty

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 20th, 2018

this could be caused by several problems. The pacing in the evenings could be caused by dementia, the panting and excessive drinking could be caused by kidney disease, diabetes and /or Cushings disease. You will need to take Toby to your vet for some blood work which will show up whether he suffers from any of those diseases. He can then also be assessed for dementia. Please make an appointment for a veterinary visit soon.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on December 29th, 2018
Drinking a lot more means that he is also urinating a lot more. This is called Polydipsia and polyuria or PU PD.
There are various reasons for PU PD and they need to be investigated by a veterinarian, especially in an old dog.
Blood work can rule out any of those.
1) diabetes---a urinalysis and blood test will be able to rule it in or out. Diabetes is usually treated with diet and insulin.
2) Cushing's disease: This is an overproduction of cortisone, either signaled by a pituitary tumor in the brain or by a malfunction or tumor of the adrenal glands. Medication can inhibit cortisone production. A potbelly and thinning or haircoat and excessive panting are common signs as well.
3) Kidney disease, treated with diet and supportive treatment
4)diabetes insipidus, usually tested with a water deprivation test and treated with a medication called Minirin.
You will need to make an appointment with your vet for an exam and blood tests. I am sure your vet will find the cause of the PU PD.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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