To calm a panting dog effectively, it’s important to understand that while panting is a normal canine behavior in most situations, excessive panting can signal your dog needs help cooling down or calming down. Understanding the underlying reasons for your dog’s panting can help keep your furry friend comfortable and healthy.
Why Do Dogs Pant?
Panting serves various vital functions for dogs, and it’s essential for you as a dog owner to know these. Humans can regulate their body temperature by sweating. Dogs, on the other hand, cannot sweat through their skin and use panting to regulate their temperature.
When dogs pant, they rapidly breathe in through their noses and out through their mouths, allowing moisture to evaporate from their tongues, lungs, and mouth surfaces. This evaporation process helps cool their bodies.
But temperature regulation isn’t the only reason that dogs pant. Dogs may also pant when excited, stressed, in pain, or suffering from certain medical conditions. Recognizing the underlying cause of dog panting is crucial for choosing the right approach to help calm a panting dog.
How to Calm a Panting Dog and Cool Down an Overheated Dog
When heat is the cause of panting, the primary goal should be to help your dog cool down safely. The first step would be moving them to a cooler environment, preferably air-conditioned or shaded with good airflow. Provide plenty of fresh, cool water, but don’t force your dog to drink large amounts, which can cause an upset stomach.
Help calm a panting dog by placing cool, damp towels on its belly, under its arms, and around its neck. These are all areas where its blood vessels are closest to the surface of its skin. Be sure not to use towels that are too cold, ice packs, or ice water directly on your dog’s skin, as this can cause blood vessels to constrict and slow down the cooling process.
How to Calm a Panting Dog That is Anxious or Excited
If your dog is panting because it is stressed or overexcited, you can help by creating a calm environment. Reduce noise, dim any harsh or flashing light, and guide your dog to a place they consider safe, like their bed or crate. Put on some soft, classical music to help mask any sounds that may add to your dog’s anxiety.
Gentle massage techniques can help calm a panting dog. Slowly stroke them along their back and chest, speaking in a soft, soothing voice. The key to calming a panting dog is to remain calm, as dogs often pick up on their owner’s emotional state.
When To Suspect Medical Concerns
While many cases of panting are not dangerous and can be managed at home, there are times when professional assistance is necessary. Issues such as heart problems, respiratory disorders, or physical pain can indicate that something more serious is at play. If your dog’s panting occurs when it is not in a hot setting or hasn’t been exercising, or if it is accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy and loss of appetite, it’s a sign to contact your veterinarian.
Certain dog breeds, particularly those with flattened faces (known as brachycephalic breeds) like pugs or bulldogs, are more susceptible to breathing problems and may need special attention during warm weather or stressful situations. As a dog owner, it’s important to understand your dog’s individual needs and limitations so you can respond appropriately to their panting.
If your dog’s panting is excessive, sudden, or accompanied by any other concerning symptoms, it’s essential not to delay contacting your veterinarian. In addition, if your dog’s anxiety seems to be a chronic issue, a veterinary behaviorist can be a powerful ally in providing you with specialized guidance for managing your dog’s stress levels and advice on calming panting dogs.
How To Prevent and Manage Panting in the Long-term
Like most health concerns in humans and animals, prevention is always better than cure. In warmer months, you can prevent excessive panting by scheduling any walks or physical exertions during the cooler hours of the day. Ensure your canine companion always has access to fresh water and shade outdoors. If your dog is prone to anxiety-related panting, work with a trainer to address the underlying triggers and stresses through positive reinforcement training.
Regular exercise appropriate to your dog’s age, breed, and physical condition can help build their tolerance to physical activity and reduce stress-related panting. Overexerting your dog is not a good idea, especially in warm weather or if your dog has a known breathing condition.
Final Thoughts on How to Calm a Panting Dog
Understanding your dog’s panting, knowing what is normal for your dog and what is not, will ensure that you respond appropriately to your dog’s panting to ensure its comfort and well-being. By staying attentive to your dog’s needs and taking prompt action when necessary, you can help your furry friend stay calm, cool, and healthy.
