03/17/2026
Pet Emergency Awareness Series: Breathing
Breathing problems in dogs can worsen quickly and should always be treated as urgent. Changes in breathing rate, effort, or gum color may signal that your dog isn’t getting enough oxygen. Early recognition and prompt emergency care can make all the difference.
Signs of Respiratory Distress:
Persistent or worsening cough
Sudden change in a chronic cough
Rapid breathing at rest
Labored breathing or visible abdominal effort
Open-mouth breathing (when not overheated or exercising)
Lethargy, weakness, or collapse
Healthy gums should be bubblegum pink. Pale, white, gray, or blue gums are a medical emergency and require immediate veterinary attention.
Monitoring Respiratory Rate:
A normal resting rate is about 20 breaths per minute or less. It may rise briefly with exercise or stress. Red flags include:
More than 50 breaths per minute at rest
Increased abdominal effort
Panting without an obvious cause
To check at home, count chest rises for 30 seconds, then multiply by 2. Always measure when your dog is calm or sleeping.
Seek Emergency Care Immediately If Your Dog:
Has pale, white, blue, or gray gums
Is breathing rapidly at rest
Is struggling or using significant abdominal effort
Collapses or becomes unresponsive
Shows a sudden change in breathing pattern
Respiratory emergencies may stem from heart disease, pneumonia, fluid in the lungs, airway obstruction, allergic reactions, trauma, or other serious conditions. Emergency teams may provide oxygen therapy, imaging, bloodwork, medications, and hospitalization if needed.
If you notice concerning changes in your dog’s breathing, don’t wait. Acting quickly can save a life.
