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My dog is panting and tired on the couch, not hot. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Rhodesian Ridgeback | Male | 2 years and 2 months old | 100 lbs

My dog was lying on the couch and he started panting. He wasn't outside running or doing anything to feel hot. He looks tired too. Now he is sleeping on the couch again but looks tired. This was happening for about 15-20 min. Please tell me what should i do. Thank you in advance!!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 10th, 2017

Hello there. Sorry Eron is having this issue. This is not an emergency service so if you are really worried about him you should always take him to a veterinarian right away! That being said, dogs can pant for many reasons. 1. Cooling themselves off 2. Pain, injury 3. Underlying medical condition like heart disease, thyroid disease, cushing's disease, respiratory disease, etc 4. Stress 5. Excitement So, it may nothing or it may a sign of something serious. You know your dog best. If he seems like he can't get comfortable and he seems stressed then you should get him to a vet right away. If he seems otherwise comfortable and he is just lying there panting he is probably fine and you should continue to monitor him and if he keeps doing it then you should have him checked out by your vet. Like I said, you know him best and if you are worried then you should have him checked out. I hope this helps. Best wishes! Dr. Amber

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