Is Shallow and Fast Breathing Normal for a Golden Retriever?

Dear VetBabble: Is My Golden Retriever’s Shallow and Fast Breathing Normal?

My Golden Retriever tends to display a shallow and fast breathing pattern out of her nose when she lays down, and sometimes it’s accompanied by weird noises. Does it happen at other times too? Is she okay the rest of the time? Any lethargy? Vomiting? Coughing? What sort of weird noise? Reverse sneezing? Have you been treating her regularly for worms?

Understanding Your Golden Retriever’s Breathing

First and foremost, it’s important to have a good understanding of your pet’s normal breathing patterns to identify if there’s indeed a problem. Breathing may change depending on your dog’s activities, emotions, and overall health. In the case of your Golden Retriever, it’s essential to pay attention to any signs of distress or discomfort, such as lethargy, vomiting, or coughing, as these can signify underlying health issues. To learn more about the Golden Retriever breed, you can refer to our article about Golden Retrievers.

Potential Causes of Shallow and Fast Breathing

Various factors could cause your dog to have shallow and fast breathing, such as:

1. Anxiety or Stress: If your dog is feeling anxious or stressed, her breathing may become rapid and shallow. It’s essential to identify potential stressors in her environment and address them accordingly.
2. Heat: Dogs have a limited ability to cool themselves through sweating. When they are exposed to high temperatures, they may pant to regulate their body temperature. Make sure to provide a cool and comfortable environment for your dog and monitor her during summer months.
3. Respiratory Issues: Any issue that affects your dog’s respiratory system, such as a cold or lung problem, may cause abnormal breathing. If you suspect your dog might be experiencing a cold, our article “Does My Dog Have a Cold?” can help determine if it’s the case. Furthermore, coughing is another indication of respiratory issues, and you can learn about types, diagnoses, and treatments of coughing in dogs in our article: “Coughing in Dogs: Types, Diagnoses and Treatment“.
4. Reverse Sneezing: A reverse sneeze is characterized by rapid and forceful inhalations through the nose. It may produce a “snorting” noise that may seem concerning to pet owners. Although reverse sneezing is common and generally harmless, it’s still crucial to rule out any other potential problems.
5. Parasites: Spirocercis lupi is a worm that can cause issues in your dog’s respiratory system, leading to symptoms similar to those you’ve described. Regular deworming treatment will keep your dog safe from parasites. If you’re unsure about deworming, consult your veterinarian for guidance.

What To Do Next

If you’re concerned about your Golden Retriever’s breathing and accompanying noises, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian for a thorough evaluation and proper diagnosis. Depending on your dog’s condition, the vet may suggest additional tests or adjustments to her environment, lifestyle, or medication. Remember to monitor your dog’s behavior and any changes in her emotional and physical well-being, including during walks. One common issue that pet owners experience is having their dog lunge at other dogs when out walking. If you find yourself in a similar situation, read our article on “Does Your Dog Lunge at Other Dogs When Out Walking?” for helpful tips.

The most important thing is to stay attentive to your dog’s needs and be proactive in providing her with a comfortable and healthy environment. By doing so, you’ll ensure your Golden Retriever enjoys a happy and fulfilling life.