This Petstock article was reviewed for accuracy by Dr Melanie Hill (BVSc), an Australian-registered veterinarian.
If you've ever wondered why your dog sounds like a little steam engine after a walk, or why they're panting when they're just lying on the couch, you're in the right place.
Why do dogs pant?
Dogs pant to cool themselves down. Unlike us humans, who can sweat through our skin, dogs have sweat glands only in their paw pads, which frankly, doesn't do much when they're overheating.
Instead, they rely on panting to regulate their body temperature. When they breathe rapidly, air circulates over their tongue, the moisture evaporates, and this cools their blood before it circulates back through their body.
That's why panting is completely normal after a game of fetch, during hot weather, or when your pup is just excited. But sometimes – and it’s important to recognise when – it's your dog's way of telling you something else is going on.
Why is my dog panting?
Your dog could be panting for several reasons. Here are the most common:
1. Heat and exercise
This is the big one. If it's a hot summer day or you've just finished a long walk, panting will help them cool down.
2. Excitement
Ever notice how your dog pants like crazy when you come home from work? That's pure joy! Excitement triggers panting because their heart rate increases and the body needs more oxygen. It's the same reason they might pant when they see their leash come out or spot their favourite dog friend at the park.
3. Stress and anxiety
Panting can be a stress response. Vet visits, thunderstorms, fireworks, new people in the house, or changes to their routine can all trigger anxious panting. You might also notice other signs like pacing, whale eyes (when you can see the whites of their eyes), pinned-back ears, or excessive yawning.
4. Pain or discomfort
This is where you need to pay closer attention. If your dog is panting heavily when they shouldn't be – like at rest in a cool room – it could signal pain. Look for accompanying signs: restlessness, reluctance to move, excessive licking of a particular area, whimpering, or changes in posture. Conditions like arthritis, injuries, or internal issues can cause pain-related panting.
5. Medical conditions
Several health issues can cause excessive panting, including:
- Cushing's disease (overproduction of cortisol)
- Heart disease
- Respiratory problems
- Anemia (low red blood cell count means less oxygen)
- Fever or infection
- Obesity (extra weight makes everything harder, including breathing)
6. Their breed
Certain breeds are also more prone to panting issues. Brachycephalic breeds like bulldogs, pugs, French bulldogs, and Boston terriers have shortened airways that make breathing less efficient, so they pant more easily. And thick-coated breeds like Siberian huskies, Alaskan malamutes, and Saint Bernards are more heat-sensitive and may struggle in warm weather.
How to know if your dog’s panting is serious
You should assess the context and look for other signs that something else might be wrong.
When else are they panting? Who or what is around? Are they panting for a long time after walks, even if they didn't run hard?
Are they panting when people are over at your house – could it be anxiety? Are there any other signs or changes in their life? Hair loss, not sleeping well, seeming restless, loss of appetite, increased thirst, vomiting, or diarrhea?
Context is everything. If your kelpie is panting after a game of fetch on a 25-degree day in January, you're probably okay – you can give them a cooling treat and monitor them closely. But if your couch potato corgi is panting heavily at midnight in a 20-degree room, that's worth investigating.
How to calm a panting dog
If your dog is panting from heat or exercise, help them cool down:
- Offer plenty of fresh, cool water (not ice-cold, which can cause stomach upset)
- Move them to a shaded or air-conditioned area
- Use a cooling mat or wet towels on their paws and belly (avoid covering their whole body, which can actually trap heat)
- Offer frozen treats like frozen watermelon chunks, ice cubes, or frozen lick mats topped with dog-safe goodies
- Run a fan to increase air circulation
If anxiety seems to be the trigger, try to remove the stressor if possible. Create a calm environment, use a quiet voice, and give them space.
Some dogs benefit from anti-anxiety t-shirts, calming music, or pheromone diffusers. If anxiety is a recurring issue, talk to your vet about anti-anxiety options.
When to see a vet for your dog’s panting
See your veterinarian if:
- Panting is excessive or won't stop, even after your dog has cooled down and rested
- Panting seems laboured or sounds different, like wheezing, crackling, or very loud
- Your dog's gums or tongue look blue, purple, or very pale (this is an emergency – go immediately)
- Panting is accompanied by other symptoms like collapse, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, or confusion
- Your dog is panting at rest with no obvious trigger
- The pattern has changed – your dog is suddenly panting much more than usual
Your vet can listen to your dog's heart and lungs, check their temperature, run bloodwork, and potentially do chest X-rays to get to the bottom of what's going on.
When in doubt, it's always better to make that call. You know your dog best, and if something feels off, trust your gut.
If you’re concerned that your dog is panting excessively, don’t hesitate to contact your nearest Petstock Vet for information and treatment.
This Petstock article was last reviewed in January 2026. The information in this article is general in nature and is not a substitute for individual veterinary advice. Always consult your vet if you have concerns about your pet’s health.