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Why is my 8-year-old dog suddenly panting and acting strange?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Rafeiro do Alentejo | Male | neutered

My dog 8 years old, started panting all of a sudden. He was inside A/C home with me and he walked to the kitchen when it started. No over heating or poisoning. He is a healthy dog. I am worried because he is not acting like himself.( Mountain Feist: Breed)

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Amy Poole, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 17th, 2017

While panting is a way dogs expel heat, there could be something else going on with him that is making him pant heavily. Panting can be a sign of discomfort or pain. It also can be do to an underlying metabolic problem. I would recommend taking Trouble in to your vet for an exam to see if he needs blood work or potentially pain medication for discomfort.

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    Answered By Lauren Barry, BVSc, MRCVS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 20th, 2017

    Poor Klaus, 98.7 is the lower end of normal for a dog, so he's not panting due to heat. Dogs typically pant also due to pain or anxiety (e.g noise phobias). If there are no obvious other causes for his distress I would recommend taking him to the emergency vet to try to determine if he is in pain somewhere. I hope he feels better soon!

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    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 17th, 2020

    It could be the heat, it could be due to pain and it could be many other things, without other symptoms we won't be able to help much, if it persists, take him to your vet so he can have a few tests done.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 16th, 2019

    Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question. It is concerning that he is excessively panting and breathing heavily. I would keep an eye on Sully for now. If he keeps acting this way, have him seen by a vet first thing in the morning. Should he develop other signs such as respiratory difficulty, severe lethargy, or a high fever, get him into a vet immediately. I hope this helps!

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