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My dog is breathing heavy and not moving, is this an emergency?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female

My dog is very Natalie breathing heavy and not wanting to move

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on June 12th, 2017

This is a quite generic but concerning sign. Differentials are many, from any disease that can spread systemically (causing lethargy for example) like infection, or anything that can cause pain/discomfort. Heavy breathing could be a reaction to pain or caused by primary respiratory disease. A check up is definitively needed to understand underlying cause and treat appropriately. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

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