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Why is my senior dachshund panting, whimpering, and eating less?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund | Male | 15 years and 3 months old | 11 lbs

Piru is a 15 years old dachshund and has been panting, not heavily though, during the day. It has been hot but he has been in sheltered and well ventilated areas. He has had water available and is drinking and eating(less enthusiatically). Has adry nose. He has begun to whimper a little bit. He has been walking well, following me around the house. content://media/external/file/30023 I continue to observe him or is this an emergency?.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on June 3rd, 2017

Unfortunately I can't open this link that you sent me, but I would be concerned about Piru. He is an old dog, and this panting can be a sign of congestive heart failure, which can be common in senior dogs. It can also be a sign of a hormonal disorder such as hypothyroidism or Cushing's disease. Finally, it could also be due to cancer in his lungs, either primary or secondary tumors. I wouldn't say this is an emergency, but he does need to see a vet for it. I recommend having a geriatric blood panel, urinalysis, and chest x-rays done. These tests will help the vet diagnose what is causing his panting, and then can discuss treatment options with you. I would take Piru into the vet first thing Monday morning.

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    Answered By Joy Fuhrman, DVM, MBA, CPA

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    It sounds like he may just be hot. Provided he is eating and drinking well and does not seem lethargic, you should be OK to monitor him. If however, his breathing becomes labored or if he becomes lethargic or inappetent, you will need to take him to the veterinarian.

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