Why is My Dog Panting and Shivering Excessively? Possible Health Concerns

Dear VetBabble: I’m Worried About My Dog’s Excessive Panting and Shivering

Many pet owners share the same concerns when their beloved canine friends display unusual behaviours like excessive panting and shivering, which are not related to extreme heat or cold. These acts could imply a variety of issues, some of which are more serious than others. If your dog experiences these symptoms over several hours without any apparent reason or signs of easing, it’s time to consult a professional. The urgency increases if your pet exhibits additional symptoms like ineffective retching, especially in large breed dogs who are more prone to serious conditions like Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV).

Underlying Causes of Panting and Shivering

Panting and shivering without an immediate explanation could potentially indicate health issues in your dog. A scenario that could cause such behaviours is difficulty in passing urine or feces; both these physiological challenges may cause your furry companion to be unsettled. It’s important to monitor your pet for symptoms tied into these issues, such as attempts to urinate without success. For more exclusive information on this topic, read our article on Urinary Tract Infections in Dogs.

Dehydration can also lead to unusual panting. Dogs drink water to cool themselves down; if they don’t have access to enough water, they may pant excessively. As a first aid measure, ensure that your dog always has a supply of fresh and clean water. To understand the intricate relation between your dog’s water consumption and its behaviours, check out the article Why Does My Dog Drink More Water?.

Additional Symptoms to Watch For

Additional symptoms accompanying panting and shivering could indicate an urgent situation. If your dog is trying to vomit but can’t, consult your veterinarian immediately. This could be a symptom of a potentially life-threatening condition called GDV, more common in large breed dogs.

Keep an eye out for frequent farts as well – consistent gaseousness in your pet could be due to something they’ve eaten or a more serious gut issue. If your dog is expressing gas more often than usual, take a moment to read our article Why Does My Dog Fart Constantly?.

And of course, changes in excretion patterns or diarrhoea are definitely cause for concern. Read more about it at our section Why Does My Dog Have Diarrhea? to have a thorough understanding of possible causes.

Next Steps

If your pet’s symptoms persist, seek immediate veterinary assistance. It’s better to be safe and take action too soon, rather than too late. Pay close attention to your dog’s behaviour and look for any patterns or changes. Sharing this information with your vet can be crucial in diagnosing and treating your pet efficiently and effectively.

Be proactive about your pet’s health and remember: you know your furry friend the best, and they rely on you for their well-being. So follow your instincts—when you feel something is wrong, there probably is.

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