3 Reasons Why Your Puppy Is Breathing Fast

75 thoughts on “3 Reasons Why Your Puppy Is Breathing Fast”

  1. I have a 7 week old pit bull.he never did this before an I let him out yesterday after being g outside he started breathing real fast.he could be stressed from training an the fact that he was found on the road lying beside a dead dog

    • Why would a 7 week old puppy be subjected to stressful training? 7 weeks he should still be with his mother in a quiet, safe place.

      • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.Pups do need to be with their mother at 7 weeks resting and sleeping. They definitely should not be subjected to stressful training at this age.

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.

  2. hello. i have 2 7wk old puppies. 1 male, 1 female. well the male breathes alot faster than the female. it’s scary. he’s sleeping and still breathing fast. he eats,plays,sleeps but he breaths alot faster than the female. should I be worried??

      • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.
        No, you cannot catch this. Pups will breath fast when dreaming. If you feel that your puppy is unwell, please call your veterinarian. Most pups will dream and breath hard while sleeping. When the dream ends, the breathing is not as fast. That said, your puppy will need a full veterinary check- up and vaccines.

        Vaccinations during puppyhood is a key component of preventative medicine, and will keep your puppy healthy. Your veterinarian will advise you as to which vaccines are necessary. Your puppy will also need parasite control to prevent roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms.Fecal samples are tested periodically in both pups and dogs, but will be tested more often in pups. Hope this helps!

      • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.
        Pups do breath fast, most especially when they’re dreaming. Is your pup eating and playing well? It’s always best to consult with your veterinarian in case of heart problems or heart worms. Your pup could possibly be allergic to something. Is her stomach bloated? Your best option is to take her to your veterinarian for a full check-up. 7-week old pups are very fragile, and it’s always best to be on top of health issues from the beginning.

  3. hi i have a 6 month old female puppy. she breathes fast when she sleeping. when she sleeping she is woofing, body jolting, and shaking. when i throw her toy like 4 to 5 times she is already out of breath. should i be worry about this. plz get back as soon you get this.
    laura C Sanford

    • Yes I think you should be worried, it’s not possible to tell what exactly is wrong with your pup by reading about symptoms, so I recommend you to consult with you vet about this..Hope she’s going to be ok and grow into healthy dog!

    • The breathing and the making noises when dogs sleep is normal I find it’s usually when they have a bad dream they can go into the different levels of sleep to but if you google dogs dreaming I’m sure it would come up

      • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.Although heavy breathing in pups may be worrisome for new puppy parents, it is very common in pups.Pups dream and react to their dreams. That said, there are also certain health conditions that could increase your pup’s breathing rate. Abnormal fast breathing in pups is also known as tachypnea. Regular breathing rates in pups is 15-40 breaths per minute. In dogs, it’s 10-30 breaths per minute. Sleep is important to puppies, since they grow and develop while they sleep. Pups also have faster heart rates than older dogs. Always check your pup’s gums and tongue color if you’re worried. They should always be pink in color. As usual if you’re concerned about your puppy, visit your veterinarian.

  4. My 12 year old Cocker is laying in her bed next to me with rapid breathing – her mouth is closed and she seems to be resting but her breaths per minute are around 50 – She has been on Tramadol since August for a bone spur in her back – and 5 days ago she was at the vet because she was limping – He put her on Previcox – we took her off the tramadol thinking this may be the cause of the rapid breathing – he took chest x-rays and said everything was good – there must be an underlying cause for the rapid breathing – i plan on taking her back tomorrow for blood work – any suggestions?

    • Did you find an underlying cause? My boxer (Delilah) is 8 months old. We’ve had her to the vet twice in the last two days. She had a temperature of 103+ yesterday when she went. Everything checked out good. She has been having rapid breathing since Monday (52 breaths per minute). She got out of bed limping but that didn’t last long. She is usually extremely hyper but right now she acts like she doesn’t have any energy at all. She is drinking water and will eat human food but is not interested in her dog food. The vet did a test for parvo because there are different strains that may not have been covered by her parvo vaccine. The test was negative. She said if Delilah isn’t better in 2 days to get her back in there. I’ve read that the rapid breathing could be because of an infection, but I am really worried about her.

  5. I have a 6 month old puppy that was given the Kennel Cough vaccine at age 3 month through the nose. She developed Kennel cough from the vaccine and her tonsils were also affected. Our Vet has done x-rays of her and said she has a Bronchial pattern, and she could see damage to her lungs. She was a HEALTHY HAPPY PUPPY before the vaccine. They now want to do a Lavage on her.
    We are upset and feel they will end up killing our little girl.
    My question is can a Puppy recover from this and lead a healthy life. We WILL NOT LET the vet and the Pharmaceutical company do this to our precious little girl. What can you suggest we try and help her recover without this radical approach from the Vet and Pharmaceutical company. We don’t even know WHY she was given this vaccine. She is a inside puppy and she will never be put into a Kennel. I would greatly appreciate any advice. Thank you

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.
      The Bordatella vaccine is usually administered with 2 doses, 4 weeks apart;with the booster every 6 to 12 months depending on your pup’s risk factor. This vaccine is usually given through the nose, and is safe. This vaccine is optional, but generally recommended annually or more often. This is because whenever dogs get together, kennel cough will likely spread to other dogs. Intranasal vaccinations together with parainfluenza is a good safeguard. That said, the duration only lasts for a year or so. Boarding kennels will mandate this vaccine. It’s always good to have in case you go away on holiday and need to board your dog. Your puppy will also need to go to the dog park and dog beach. When out on walks, your puppy will be exposed to other dogs, thus having this vaccine, makes it safer for your dog. Perhaps visit another veterinarian for a second opinion regarding bronchial problems in your pup.

  6. My 8 mo male Boxer eats, plays, and happy. Very recently he has been breathing heavy when he settles down to sleep. I am worried about this and I will take him to my vet in the morning.

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.It’s always a good idea to visit your veterinarian if you have concerns. Your Boxer is probably dreaming. That said, there are numerous health related issues to heavy breathing in Boxers. The Boxer is a brachycephalic dog breed with a snub nose. Hot weather could also trigger off heavy breathing. When dogs have difficulty breathing they may also breathe faster, and it will be more of an effort on the dog’s part to breathe. If there is obvious open-mouthed breathing that is labored, consult with an emergency veterinarian. Also if your dog has a blue tinge to the skin. Traumatic injuries to the chest can also cause heavy breathing, and can be life- threatening. Airway blockage, breathing difficulty due to buildup of air in the space around the lungs, fluid or blood in the lungs, narrowing of the airways from asthma or an allergic reaction all will affect breathing. Heat stroke, snake bites, trauma, shock, and poisoning warrant emergency visits to the veterinarian.

  7. I have a 6 month old mutt (mostly pit bull) and she recently started acting out of breath all the time. She does appear to have signs of allergies as well, but i just cant help but worry about her. She doesn’t cough, she eats normally, but all she wants to do is snuggle up to someone and sleep. Her fast breathing is very noticeable so I just want to make sure these symptoms don’t necessarily mean something extremely serious. Any ideas?

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.Schedule a complete check- up with your veterinarian to rule out any respiratory or cardiac concerns. Sometimes when dogs dream, they tend to breath heavier.That said, it’s always best to be on the safe side, and opt for a full check-up, to make sure that there are no health issues.

  8. I have a 10 week old female Sheepadoodle, when awake, she is constantly panting, and drinking water. When she is asleep, she breathes so loud, and so fast! I counted her at 120 resp/min last night. I’m positive I told the tech when she was in Wednesday for her 9week vaccinations, but I can’t remember if the vet discussed this with me or not? Just very concerned, she is being trained to be my service dog, and I’m worried she’s ill! We are already very much bonded with one another. Help????????????????????????????????????????

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.It’s always best to call your veterinarian and schedule a complete health check. Your puppy is still very small,and when ill pups go downhill super fast. Although pups tend to breath heavier when sleeping and dreaming, it’s always wise to ask your veterinarian as many questions as need be.

  9. How can I have any faith in an article that repeatedly and carelessly uses the spelling “painting” for “panting”?

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.
      Thanks for reaching out! We will update this blog. At Mysweetpuppy.net we aim to give our readers the most updated reviews, as well as interesting dog blogs. Not only will you get a better understanding of canine care, but of dog products as well.

  10. My German shepherd puppie was breathing rapidly but decided to hold of on the vet till the next day. I woke up early in the morning to my puppie barking its lungs out and it passed away immediately after

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.

      All pups need to visit a veterinarian within 24-hours of purchase or adoption. What did your veterinarian diagnose? Please keep us updated.

  11. Fast breathing, It’s simply a part of puppy life, and unless we have a pretty strong indicator like a secondary symptom, we should rest easy. Thank you for your post.

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.Pups tend to breath faster when sleeping and dreaming.That said,respiratory distress occurs when the level of oxygen becomes too low.(hypoxia or anoxia) Low oxygen levels can be caused by the reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of blood cells,like the insufficient movement of gases in or out the lungs. It can also be caused by the inability of tissues to use available oxygen. This can be caused by some poisons. In this case the dog’s body will try to make up for the low oxygen in the blood by increasing the contraction of the spleen. This is to force more red blood cells into circulation. This will increase blood flow and heart rate. If the dog’s brain suffers from lack of oxygen, the respiratory function can be reduced even more because of nervous system activity. In turn, kidney, heart, and liver functions can also be reduced, as well as the normal movement and secretions that come from the intestine. If the dog’s body is not able to make up for the lack of oxygen, then the body tissues will function less efficiently.Coughing and labored breathing are problems that result from the respiratory tract.Respiratory problems can also occur due to problems with other organs, like congestive heart failure. Young pups and older dogs are much more at risk for developing respiratory problems. At birth, pups do not have a fully developed respiratory system. This allows for disease organisms to easily enter and spread in the lungs. With senior dogs, there is a decrease in th ability to filter out particles and fight off infection.

  12. I just recently got my puppy and he often moves his mouth as tho his eating but not, while he sleep his mouth is closed but his stomach moving as i hear him breath heavy and whimpers! I’m just really worried his doing this please respond asap!

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.Your puppy is most likely sleeping and dreaming at the same time. The whimpering is him dreaming. Pups will breath heavily when doing both at the same time. If on the otherhand there is an obstruction of the airway, this can be life threatening. Possible causes can be obstruction of the airway with a foreign object, paralysis of the larynx,or collapse of the trachea.Dogs that have severe small airway obstruction will have problems breathing. They may also wheeze and the diapphragm will push out when exhaling. There will also be a bluish tinge to the skin due to lack of oxygen. This can happen with allergic reactions, asthma, fluid and mucus build up, or foreign material that is in the lungs. With cases such as these, it is important to visit your emergency veterinarian right away.

  13. Jerry…on december 5th, 2017 at 12:48 am. my Caucasian dog poppy has not closed his mouth for a while now. He’s 2 months and 3 days. Always breathing fast, finding it difficult to sleep. Always changing positions.whenever he tries to close his mouth to Brest from his nose he always find it difficult to do so, and I hear noises whenever he tries to breat with his mouth closed. I can send u a video if can contact me pls. I’m very worried.

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section. Please consult with your veterinarian. Have you taken your puppy to the vet yet for a full health check? Please keep us updated. We would love to hear back from you!

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.Puppies are so much fun! Most pups will breath fast when asleep, most especially when dreaming.Please consult with your veterinarian for advice. As usual, all pups should visit their veterinarian 24-hours after coming home, to make sure that they are healthy. Hope this helps!

  14. Hello i need help my puppy is 2 months old an is fast breathing for about 130 breaths per minute and i count it in a full minute, she has excessive mucus on nose that has dried up and also in her eyes. We have no vet in our town please anyone here?

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.

      Your best best is to find an emergency veterinarian in the next town. Respiratory and non-respiratory diseases such as heartworms, heart disease,and anemia could be factors. Consult with your veterinarian.

  15. Hello really need help I just picked up a 12 week old pup boxer mixed nd we had her sister over last night nd she Did the same thing when she is sleeping she is breathing fast nd little bit loud I got her for 250 with out anything being done for her got her late so didn’t have time to go get what she needs done I am hoping she isn’t sick but I need help knowing sings if she is sick

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.
      Please consult with your veterinarian as soon as possible. Keep in mind that pups do breath fast sometimes when they are dreaming and sleeping. Boxer dog breeds are brachycephalic dog breeds, which means that they are flat- faced and short- nosed. Due to this, they are prone to brachycephalic respiratory syndrome, and may have breathing difficulties. Consult with your veterinarian for advice and a full check-up.

  16. Our black labrador puppy Jen who is 10 months old was panting fast but it is now fine but should I keep an eye on her.

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.
      Make sure that your puppy is well-hydrated and kept indoors during the hot summer months. Always provide her with lots of fresh water, and a cool place to hang out. Consult with your veterinarian if she pants consistently without exercising beforehand.

  17. I have a 8wk old female doberman-retriever mix and she started breathing hard and vomiting after being outside. Is she ok? Should I take her to the vet?

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.Please visit your emergency veterinarian as soon as possible, and keep us updated. With young pups, it’s always best to be safe and take them to the veterinarian, just to be sure. Make sure that she has a complete health-check and deworming.

  18. I have a 2 month year old male puppy and when he is sleeping he starts breathing fast and I can sometimes hear him breathing and sometimes he’ll start breathing rapidly out of no where

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.Pups very often will breath fast and hard when dreaming and sleeping. Usually when the dream ends, the normal breathing rate returns. If you’re worried about heart disease, heart worms or blocked nasal passages, please consult with your veterinarian for advice.

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.Pups tend to breath heavier when dreaming and sleeping. That said, keep in mind that all pups should be taken to the veterinarian for a health check soon after bringing them home. Your veterinarian will check for heart problems as well as heart worms.Your vet will also set up a puppy vaccine schedule with you, and deworm your puppy.

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.Pups do breath fast when sleeping and dreaming. As usual,it’s always best to bring your puppy to your veterinarian for a check-up when first bringing him home. Your pup will need deworming and vaccines. It’s also always helpful to consult with your veterinarian about the right puppy food, how often to feed, and your vaccine and deworming schedule.

  19. I have a 10 week German Sherpard & when she is sleep.. She is breathing very hard as if she had been outside running…she’s breathing very hard & I was wondering because she’s not under her momma or is she nervous or what ..please let me know what u think

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.

      Puppies do dream, and sometimes breath harder when sleeping. It does sound like she is dreaming. That said, it’s always best to take your puppy to the veterinarian within 24-hours after bringing the puppy home. Bring a fresh stool sample so that your pup can be checked for intestinal parasites. Make sure that your pup is healthy, and is started on vaccines and vaccines.

  20. I have a five week old labretor retriever it breathes fast when he sleeps.he plays lot but he never get out of breath until he stops playing he drinks water and then goes to sleep then starts breathing fast should I be worried please reply I have never had a dog in my life until now and don’t want anything to happen to it.Thank you

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.
      Most pups breath faster when they sleep, and most especially when they dream. There are many books available on dog care, as well as websites with plenty of information about how to take care of your puppy. Always consult with your veterinarian for the best advice.

  21. Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.
    Many dogs breath fast when asleep. They also dream, and that causes fast breathing.Usually when the dream ends, breathing returns to normal. You can also consult with your veterinarian for a check-up to make sure that there are no heart problems or heart worms. That said, dog breeds with short snouts tend to be noisier when breathing. Respiratory infections may also contribute to loud breathing. Foreign matter that has been inhaled through your dog’s nose may also cause heavy breathing when a dog sleeps, since the air flows over the partial blockage. Consult with your veterinarian for a full health check-up.

  22. I have about a 12 week old pit girl that we were fostering and she stoled our hearts she breaths very heavy and raspy when sleeping when she plays she seems to be fine she might get a little raspy but nothing like when she sleeps. Now when she was about 2-3weeks old someone slit her neck 3 times we got her around 5-6 weeks ish not 100% on how old she was when we got her, could that have something to do with the way she breaths scar tissue or something? She seems to have a raspy bark also but she is a puppy so I dont know if that is why. Tonight it seems really bad her breathing is really fast and raspy.

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.
      Since you’re fostering, you’ve probably had your puppy examined by a veterinarian. If not, please bring your puppy in for a complete check-up and explain your concern about her breathing, as well as her past history. Your veterinary bill should be paid for by the shelter that you’re fostering for. Hope this helps! Please keep in touch!

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.Scaling skin is caused by dryness. Samoyeds are prone to skin problems and allergies.A lack of Omega- 3 fatty acids causes dry skin.Since your Samoyed puppy is only 6 weeks of age, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian, and have a full health check. Since there are so many causes like nutritional deficiencies,parasitic infections, and even abnormal skin or hair follicle development, a veterinary consult would be advisable. Hope this helps.

  23. Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.I am in no way connected to the content written within this website, most especially the German Shepherd blog. This website hires other writers for their blogs.Please do not contact me regarding website content. I only write content within the comments section.”We’ve all wondered about the different ways one may be able to reduce stress in our dogs, especially before competitions. Chances are if you’re feeling stressed, your dog is too! Going for a quick walk can help reduce stress for both competitor and dog alike, improving the chances for a good run. According to a research paper published in the journal Physiology & Behavior, Dr. Simona Cafazzo and colleagues at the Department of Neuroscience at the University of Parma did the following:

      Assessed the welfare of dogs in 8 shelters in the Lazio Region of Italy.
      Dr. Cafazzo measured oxidative stress and behavioral indicators.
      The variable that made the most difference was for dogs to leave their shelter kennels and be taken on walks regularly.
      The walked dogs yielded a higher antioxidant capacity with less anxious behavior and displayed much more sociable behavior towards other dogs and people.

      Effects of Stress on Dogs

      According to this study, chronic stress in dogs can cause health problems, such as tissue damage and an increase in their white blood count. The blood analysis done by Dr. Cafazzo and colleagues was helpful in demonstrating if there were long-term stressors, and how the body reacted to this.

      The researchers discovered there was one thing that really decreased stress levels, and that was being walked consistently by a volunteer at the shelter. Dogs that were walked often demonstrated less unwanted behaviors. They were not as anxious or stressed, and enjoyed being around other dogs and people.

      The research results were surprising since Dr. Cafazzo examined many variables. The researchers found that, dogs that enjoyed the regular walk had a higher total antioxidant capacity, and performed a lower frequency of displacing activities and stereotyped behaviour.

      If you’re interested in reading more about my article on stress in dogs and how beneficial walking can be for dogs, visit:https://www.usdaa.com/article.cfm?newsID=2979

      Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.

      “We’ve all wondered about the different ways one may be able to reduce stress in our dogs, especially before competitions. Chances are if you’re feeling stressed, your dog is too! Going for a quick walk can help reduce stress for both competitor and dog alike, improving the chances for a good run. According to a research paper published in the journal Physiology & Behavior, Dr. Simona Cafazzo and colleagues at the Department of Neuroscience at the University of Parma did the following:

      Assessed the welfare of dogs in 8 shelters in the Lazio Region of Italy.
      Dr. Cafazzo measured oxidative stress and behavioral indicators.

      The variable that made the most difference was for dogs to leave their shelter kennels and be taken on walks regularly.
      The walked dogs yielded a higher antioxidant capacity with less anxious behavior and displayed much more sociable behavior towards other dogs and people.

      Effects of Stress on Dogs

      According to this study, chronic stress in dogs can cause health problems, such as tissue damage and an increase in their white blood count. The blood analysis done by Dr. Cafazzo and colleagues was helpful in demonstrating if there were long-term stressors, and how the body reacted to this.

      The researchers discovered there was one thing that really decreased stress levels, and that was being walked consistently by a volunteer at the shelter. Dogs that were walked often demonstrated less unwanted behaviors. They were not as anxious or stressed, and enjoyed being around other dogs and people.

      The research results were surprising since Dr. Cafazzo examined many variables. The researchers found that, dogs that enjoyed the regular walk had a higher total antioxidant capacity, and performed a lower frequency of displacing activities and stereotyped behavior.

      As for thunderstorm stress, “desensitization and counter-conditioning can help restore a sound-sensitive dog’s confidence, especially during fireworks or storms. Basically, it involves exposing the dog to the upsetting noise in gradually increasing increments, while providing him with positive reinforcements, to help him eventually lose his anxiety towards the noise and associate it with something less negative and fearful. Victoria Stilwell’s Canine Noise Phobia Series is specifically designed to reduce and prevent noise phobias and anxiety in dogs.” via Animal Wellness.

      “Wraps and shirts that are especially designed to calm fearful dogs can also be used to alleviate sound sensitivity, including phobias to storms and other loud noises. The Anxiety Wrap, for example, applies pressure to certain calming acupressure points on the dog’s neck, chest, belly, shoulders, mid-section and hindquarters.”

      There is also a great study on how domestic dogs react to noises, University of Bristol, School of Veterinary Sciences.

      For more on my article on stress in dogs and how beneficial walking can be for dogs, visit:https://www.usdaa.com/article.cfm?newsID=2979

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.I am in no way connected to the content written within this website, most especially the German Shepherd blog. This website hires other writers for their blogs.Please do not contact me regarding website content. I only write content within the comments section.”We’ve all wondered about the different ways one may be able to reduce stress in our dogs, especially before competitions. Chances are if you’re feeling stressed, your dog is too! Going for a quick walk can help reduce stress for both competitor and dog alike, improving the chances for a good run. According to a research paper published in the journal Physiology & Behavior, Dr. Simona Cafazzo and colleagues at the Department of Neuroscience at the University of Parma did the following:

      Assessed the welfare of dogs in 8 shelters in the Lazio Region of Italy.
      Dr. Cafazzo measured oxidative stress and behavioral indicators.
      The variable that made the most difference was for dogs to leave their shelter kennels and be taken on walks regularly.
      The walked dogs yielded a higher antioxidant capacity with less anxious behavior and displayed much more sociable behavior towards other dogs and people.

      Effects of Stress on Dogs
      According to this study, chronic stress in dogs can cause health problems, such as tissue damage and an increase in their white blood count. The blood analysis done by Dr. Cafazzo and colleagues was helpful in demonstrating if there were long-term stressors, and how the body reacted to this.

      The researchers discovered there was one thing that really decreased stress levels, and that was being walked consistently by a volunteer at the shelter. Dogs that were walked often demonstrated less unwanted behaviors. They were not as anxious or stressed, and enjoyed being around other dogs and people.

      The research results were surprising since Dr. Cafazzo examined many variables. The researchers found that, dogs that enjoyed the regular walk had a higher total antioxidant capacity, and performed a lower frequency of displacing activities and stereotyped behavior.

      As for thunderstorm stress, “desensitization and counter-conditioning can help restore a sound-sensitive dog’s confidence, especially during fireworks or storms. Basically, it involves exposing the dog to the upsetting noise in gradually increasing increments, while providing him with positive reinforcements, to help him eventually lose his anxiety towards the noise and associate it with something less negative and fearful. Victoria Stilwell’s Canine Noise Phobia Series is specifically designed to reduce and prevent noise phobias and anxiety in dogs.” via Animal Wellness.

      “Wraps and shirts that are especially designed to calm fearful dogs can also be used to alleviate sound sensitivity, including phobias to storms and other loud noises. The Anxiety Wrap, for example, applies pressure to certain calming acupressure points on the dog’s neck, chest, belly, shoulders, mid-section and hindquarters.”

      There is also a great study on how domestic dogs react to noises, University of Bristol, School of Veterinary Sciences.

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.I am in no way connected to the content written within this website, most especially the German Shepherd blog. This website hires other writers for their blogs.Please do not contact me regarding website content. I only write content within the comments section.All puppies and dogs need to have parasite control.Intestinal parasites in your puppy may include roundworms, hookworms,tapeworms, and whipworms. Worms in dogs may damage the digestive tract, and also interfere with the absorption of essential nutrients. That said, it’s important to visit your veterinarian, and to bring in a fecal sample. Your veterinarian will then test the fecal sample to make a diagnosis. Pups will need to be tested more frequently than adult dogs,and your veterinarian will advise as to the best schedule. Roundworm and heartworm can infect too. To get more information about parasites visit:https://capcvet.org

      How Can You Tell if Your Dog Has a Parasite?

      According to research by Dr.Peregrine,DVM, at Ontario Veterinary College,”the first indication of infection in young animals is lack of growth and loss of condition. Infected animals have a dull coat and often appear “potbellied.” Worms may be vomited and are often passed in the feces. In the early stages, migrating larvae may cause pneumonia, which can be associated with coughing. Diarrhea with mucus may be evident. Infection in dogs and cats is diagnosed by detection of the roundworm eggs in feces using a microscope.External parasites in your puppy may include fleas, ticks, and mites. Your veterinarian will prescribe preventative treatments for your puppy. With worms being common in pups, your veterinarian may advise testing every 2-4 weeks, with the necessary treatments. There needs to be 2 negative fecal tests without parasites for frequent testing to cease.” via Merck Veterinary Manual

      “There are a number of compounds available for treating roundworm infections in dogs. Certain preventive programs for heartworm infection also control intestinal roundworm infections. Transmission of infection from mother to newborn can be greatly reduced by a program of antiparasitic drugs given during pregnancy and after the birth of a litter. Otherwise, the pups should be treated as early as possible. Ideally, treatment should be given 2 weeks after birth and repeated at 2- to 3‑week intervals to 2 months of age, then monthly to 6 months of age. Nursing dogs should be treated on the same schedule as their pups. Your veterinarian will prescribe the appropriate medication for this infection.

      Because people, especially children, can become infected with roundworms, it is important to practice good hygiene (e.g., prompt removal of feces and washing hands) in potentially contaminated areas or around affected dogs.” As for whipworms, Dr. Peregrine states that ” No signs are seen in light infections, but as the number of worms increases the cecum and colon can become inflamed, which can cause diarrhea and weight loss. Fresh blood might be seen in the feces in heavy infections and anemia may also result.”

      With whipworm ” signs of infection vary from a failure to digest and absorb food normally, malaise, irritability, variable appetite, and shaggy coat to colic and mild diarrhea. There may be no signs in mild cases. In rare cases, telescoping of the intestine (intussusception), emaciation, and seizures are seen. Diagnosis is based on finding tapeworm segments or eggs in the feces or stuck to the hair around the anus.”

      Otitis Externa

      “In puppies and kittens, otitis externa is often caused by ear mites. These tiny parasites cause terrible itching and a thick brown discharge.” via American College of Veterinary Surgeons.(ACVS) “Medical management is preferred in pets that have inflammation and discharge of the ear canals, but no blockage. The ear canals are cleaned and flushed, and your veterinarian may even need to drain the middle ear to relieve the fluid buildup. Pets are treated with a medication that kills mites, bacteria, or yeast, depending on what type of organism is found in the canal. Because pets with ear infections are uncomfortable, pain medications may be prescribed. Animals with allergies may require shots or a diet change.”

      For more on Otitis Externa in dogs, visit:https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/immunology-and-microbiology/otitis-externa

      For more on 2019 dog activity behavior monitor by Sure Petcare, visit:https://www.drugstorenews.com/center-store/sure-petcare-launches-activity-behavior-monitor/

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.I am in no way connected to the content written within this website, most especially the German Shepherd blog. This website hires other writers for their blogs.Please do not contact me regarding website content. I only write content within the comments section.A puppy’s body language and behavior will show discomfort or pain. If your puppy is not feeling well, he may first lose his appetite. If you notice that your puppy is not eating, and has a lack of interest in his feed, you may want to consult with your veterinarian. Dogs are very brave, and often do not show signs of pain, although they are in pain. Thus, the need for your dog to have twice yearly dental visits just in case he has dental problems.

      Here are a few common signs that your puppy is in pain:

      Breathing Changes in Your Puppy or Dog

      We often don’t pay attention to the way our puppies and dogs breathe. Yet, if your puppy is breathing fast, and he hasn’t been exercising, this could be a red flag. When there is any change to a puppy’s breathing, whether it be the breathing rate, depth of breathing or the rhythm of the pup’s breathing that does not go back to the normal breathing rate, it’s time to visit your veterinarian. If your puppy or dog is experiencing breathing changes, it could be related to lung or heart problems.That said, puppies also dream a lot of when they sleep, and the breathing rate increases then.

      If your Puppy or Dog Does Not Want to Exercise

      If your puppy enjoys going out with you for walks, and then becomes tired and refuses to walk, consult with your veterinarian. Lack of energy in pups and dogs may be indicative that your puppy is not feeling well.

      If your Puppy or Dog is Suddenly Aggressive

      Dogs are similar to humans in that when they are not feeling up to par, they may be easily irritated. Aggression and grumpiness may be signs of pain. Consult with your veterinarian.

      Does Your Puppy Have Asthma?

      Consult with your veterinarian if your puppy is out of breath, and coughing or wheezing. If your puppy is breathing with an open mouth, and seems to be straining, consult with your veterinarian for x-rays.

      Whimpering and Panting

      If your puppy or dog whimpers when you touch him, he may be in pain in that specific area. That said, if your puppy or dog cries out when he jumps off your bed, he could possibly have spinal, abdominal or limb pain. Dogs that have pain in their heads will experience increased pain by extreme noise or lights. Consult with your veterinarian for advice.

      OCD Issues or Excessive Grooming

      If your puppy or dog displays excessive attention to a particular area on his body and keeps licking it, it may be due to a joint issue. That said, if he excessively licks his abdomen, he may be having abdominal discomfort.

      Always consult with your veterinarian, even if the signs are subtle. The sooner signs of pain in your puppy or dog are diagnosed, the sooner your veterinarian will be able to treat your furry best friend. Your role as a puppy parent, is to always provide the very best veterinary care, and to make sure that your dog is free of pain. To find a veterinarian in your area visit: https://www.veterinarians.com

    • Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.

      Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is common in dogs during the winter time. Light therapy can help!

      Why is Seasonal Affective Disorder So Common in Dogs?

      “Dogs, as pack animals are not genetically made to spend long periods of time alone indoors. Combine long periods of time alone with our modern dog’s lifestyle, which normally includes less exercise during the fall and perhaps longer stays at kennels when we are away or a new pet sitter and yes, you end up with SAD. Given that our furry- best friends need sunlight, regular exercise and hardly any change in their daily routine, we need to help them during the winter months –overcome the winter blues.Research suggests that restoring the chemical balance is not done easily, since serotonin cannot be given as a shot or in pill form. Many veterinarians when faced with a depressed or anxious pet will turn to drugs that are most often prescribed for humans. If the idea of giving your dog Prozac or a “serotonin reuptake inhibitor” (SRI) makes your heart ache, then learning about the predicable and natural ways of manipulating your dog’s environment, such as using light therapy which simulates the brightness of sunlight is the way to go. If you find yourself compelled to switch on more lights in your home when your pets appear to be withdrawn, passive or even aggressive, then keep in mind that normal household lights do not emit adequate amounts of light to help balance the mood and behavior of dogs and cats.” First published for Pawsitive Lightning. Sol Box. Written by Claudia Bensimoun.

      Symptoms of SAD

      While we all enjoy lounging on the sofa and bed with our furry – best friends, there is nothing wrong in taking note of a few simple symptoms that your pet may be displaying. Is your dog or cat over anxious? Perhaps less playful? Or gradually spending most of his days sleeping, displaying little interest in new foods or toys? Dedicated pet parents sometimes will fall into a trap of overfeeding during the winter months or gradually accustoming ourselves to our pet’s lack of enthusiasm. The very behavior that humans with SAD display is similar to that of pets suffering from SAD. Pets suffering from winter depression need for us as pet parents to recognize the symptoms and to make all the necessary changes to combat SAD. Just because you enjoy the grey skies and snow, doesn’t mean that your furry-best friends have to as well.

      How is SAD Treated?

      Veterinarians often recommend light therapy to treat SAD. Being informed about non-invasive and low cost treatments that are natural and certainly cost less than yearly supplies of doggie Prozac, allows for pet parents to maintain control over their pets emotional well -being. Using a full spectrum light therapy that is generated through a light box and emits light on all wavelengths helps ease the winter blues.

      Whether you are a pet parent or a shelter volunteer that has recently been affected by a depressed pet, here are a few suggestions that may ease your dog’s emotional pain.

      Prevention Checklist for SAD During the Holidays

      Most of us exercise less in the fall. Less exercise in your dog’s daily schedule will induce depression. When exercise decreases, your pets produce fewer endorphins. Guess what? These endorphins are what make him feel good. The very behavior that increases the risk of canine depression during the winter months is the one we all repeatedly choose to maintain. If the idea of going jogging in the rain with Fido does not appeal to you, then think about the subsequent consequences. Changes of schedule, less exercise and more indoor time do more than just trigger off behavioral changes in your pets. Like us, dogs need regular exercise every day to feel good. With little or no exercise, healthy pets will be more prone to SAD. Giving your dog the benefits of a predicable daily routine will decrease feelings of anxiety, helplessness and aggression.

      For more on SAD in pets, here’s my article about seasonal affective disorder: https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/cats-depression-winter-seasonal-affective-disorder-light-therapy
      For more on dogs and depression, visit:http://www.petroglyphsnm.org/newsletters/fall_2011/dogs_and_depression.html

      Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.

    • I am in no way connected to the content written within this website, most especially the German Shepherd blog. This website hires other writers for their blogs.Please do not contact me regarding website content. I only write content within the comments section.

      If your dog has a seizure, you will need to consult with your veterinarian immediately to see why he is having seizures. That said, once your veterinarian has made a diagnosis and a treatment plan, it will be necessary to follow this throughout your dog’s life. Studies by TCM practitioners demonstrate that by combining acupressure with ice, one can reduce how long the seizure goes on for.

      Seizures in dogs may be caused by the following:

      .distemper
      .liver disease
      .kidney disease
      .illness
      .exposure to poisons/toxins
      .parasitic reactions
      .electrolyte imbalances
      .Lyme disease
      .hormonal imbalances
      .genetics

      A 2017 study published in Science Daily by the University of Helsinki adds that ” A collaborative study describes a novel myoclonic epilepsy syndrome in dogs for the first time and discovers its genetic cause at DIRAS1 gene. The affected dogs developed myoclonic seizures at a young age — on average 6 months old — and seizures occur typically at rest. In some of the dogs the seizures could be triggered by light.

      The study reveals a novel candidate gene for human myoclonic epilepsies, one of the most common forms of epilepsy. As a result, a genetic test was developed for veterinary diagnostics and breeding programs.” via Science Daily.” We found a novel epilepsy gene, DIRAS1, which has not been linked to any neurological diseases before. The gene is poorly characterized so far, but some studies suggest that it may play a role in cholinergic neurotransmission, which could be a highly relevant pathway for the myoclonic epilepsies,” explains MSc Sarviaho, co-first author of the study.

      Another 2015 study published in Plos One adds that “Naturally occurring canine epilepsy is an excellent model for human epilepsy [25, 26]. Canine epilepsy occurs at the same rate and is resistant to drug therapy at the same rate as human epilepsy. The clinical and electrophysiological characteristics of canine epilepsy are very similar to focal human epilepsy, and canine and human iEEG of focal onset seizures essentially indistinguishable. Many medications used to treat human epilepsy, e.g. Phenobarbital and Leviteracitam, are also effective in canines at similar serum levels.” via Plos One.

      What is Acupressure?

      .An ancient healing practice that is observed by the Chinese
      .Similar to acupuncture, but does not use needles
      .Helps to relive pain by stimulating certain pressure points on the dog’s body
      .Used by humans first, and is becoming popular with pet parents
      .Non-invasive
      .Works well with anxious dogs that don’t enjoy needles

      By adding ice on Governing vessel G14 ( base of neck) when a seizure begins, it may help to reduce the duration of a seizure. It may also reduce the frequencies of seizures in canines. To find out more about Governing Vessel 14 , and as to where to place the ice, consult with your holistic veterinarian.

      For more about how epilepsy in dogs links to cognitive impairment, visit:https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0192182

      Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.

    • I am in no way connected to the content written within this website, most especially the German Shepherd blog. This website hires other writers for their blogs.Please do not contact me regarding website content. I only write content within the comments section.
      Having an active lifestyle with your pooch is an important part of keeping your furry best friend healthy and fit. Dogs that are not exercised regularly may be prone to obesity,and numerous health and behavioral problems. That said, it’s just as important not to over- exercise your pooch, and to use the right dog walking equipment. When out walking or running with your dog, it’s best to avoid doing so in extreme weather conditions. During the hot summer months, pet parents should consider exercising their dogs during the early morning or evening hours to avoid dehydration, sunburn, and heat exhaustion. That said, here are some reasons as to why harnesses are so beneficial, and may be preferred over dog collars.

      .easy -to -use with dogs that tend to pull, and that are strong and energetic larger breeds.
      .harnesses reduce pulling, and aid in teaching a dog how to go on dog walks without pulling
      .beneficial to leash training
      .safer to use since they distribute weight evenly across a dog’s chest
      .more comfortable for dogs to use
      .does not injure a dog’s windpipe like collars may, if your dog is pulling or jumping up onto other dogs when doing a “meet and greet”
      .can be used with collapsing tracheas, a condition that is common in older dogs and small toy breeds
      .prevents dog’s from choking when pulling during a walk or run
      .provides more protection in that dogs cannot “slip- out” of their harness, as with collars, and run away

      How to purchase a puppy or dog harness?

      .opt for high-quality products
      .measure your dog beforehand, and purchase the correct fit. Many harness brands have a brand specific size chart. (very important to use those)
      .consider the sporting activities that you enjoy with your dog, and the harness brand for durability and safety
      .Back-clip harnesses allow for easy-use with small breeds that are easy to walk, and don’t pull or lunge out
      .Dual-purpose harnesses can also function as backpacks, lifejackets, and coats. Perfect for adventurous and active pet parents that enjoy camping, boating, and hiking
      .Front-clip harnesses work well for strong, large breed dogs, and help pet parents have more control when dogs lunge out and pull.

      With daily exercise and socialization being an important part of pet parenting, finding the correct dog walking gear for your puppy or dog allows for plenty of fun. Dogs that exercise and socialize every day have less behavioral problems, improved muscle tone, and are not prone to obesity, and the health problems related to being overweight.Dog sports like agility, skijoring, canicross should be considered for active dog breeds.

      For my article about how “Walking can reduce long-term stress in dogs,” visit:https://www.usdaa.com/article.cfm?newsID=2979

      For my article about how “Increasing Arousal Enhances Inhibitory Control in Calm Dogs, and may be Beneficial for Your Dog,” visit:https://www.usdaa.com/article.cfm?newsID=2965

      For my article on how “To Protect Your Dogs From Sunburn,” visit:https://www.usdaa.com/article.cfm?newsID=2636

      Thanks for connecting to Mysweetpuppy.net. Please keep in mind that I, Claudia Bensimoun, do not write any of the blogs or reviews on this website, nor have I in the past. I only answer the comments section.

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