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My dog is breathing fast and panting. Is this normal or a concern?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Australian Shepherd | Male | unneutered

My Australian Shepherd seems to breathe pretty fast? Is it normal?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 7th, 2016

A dog the size of an Australian Shepherd should normally not breathe more than about 15 to 30 breaths per minute. If a dog breathes faster than that there could be various reasons: it is hot, the dog is hot, and since dogs cannot sweat but via their tongue, they would lose body heat via the tongue and panting. If it is cool and the dog breathes fast, then there could be a disease or untoward condition causing this (fever, respiratory infection, heart condition, pain). So unless you think the dog is hot, I suggest you take him to a veterinarian for an exam.

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24Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Dogs do pant if they are hot, but it can also signal respiratory distress, heatstroke, pain, heart disease, and fever. Because I can't see Rascal in person, I can't say for certain that his breathing fast is normal, so I recommend taking him into your vet to be safe. Dogs who are having difficulty breathing can quickly go downhill, and if it's something like heatstroke causing it, that's a life threatening condition that needs immediate medical attention. I'd take Rascal into your vet.

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    8Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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