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Why is my pregnant dog panting heavily? Is it normal or a concern?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | unspayed

My bitch is 43 days gestation and is panting quite a bit. Quite concerned as I don't remember her doing this with her first litter.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

Veterinarian

Published on July 22nd, 2017

I strongly recommend you seek an urgent vet check to assess her health and that of her puppies and to rule out any fever or signs of infection as heavy panting is not normally associated with mid-pregnancy

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 3rd, 2018

    Once the abdomen gets very extended with puppies , she may have a problem breathing, especially in your climate. However, if she is not very big yet, then this is not normal and could be a sign of a uterine infection. You will need to take her to a vet for an exam to rule out a uterine infection which can be lethal.

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