Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why is my dog shy, breathing heavy, and dribbling after rough play?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 5 months and 24 days old

Hi my dog was playing with one of my other dogs and it got a little rough (not nasty) she's been bed out of character since she seems shy and is breathing heavy she is also dribbling which is unlike her

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 11th, 2017

Lola may just be worn out and over-tired from playing so hard with the other dog. One thing I would be concerned about is if she may have become over heated while playing. If you are able to take her temperature rectally it would be very helpful. Normal temp for a dog is 101.5. Anything over 103.5 would be concerning enough to take Lola to the vet. You can also monitoring her respiratory rate. Count the number of breaths she takes in 1 minute, anything over 60 would be concerning (unless she is panting). If her temperature and respiratory rate are normal then I would recommend monitoring her for the next 12-24 hours. If she is still acting abnormal after this time then I would suggest take her to the vet.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hello there and thank you for posting your question! With the history you provided, it sounds like Lola may have injured herself. This could be a back injury or some kind of nerve trauma leading to the dribbling. I would have your veterinarian check her out to be on the safe side to make sure this is not something serious. If this is just a soft tissue injury, it may take some time of resting and low activity to see a full recovery. It may be wise to consider x-rays and get a prescription for an anti-inflammatory medication. I hope this helps and that Lola improves soon! Please feel free to contact me with any further questions / concerns you may have.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu has trouble breathing, coughing, and nose discharge. Help?
Is your degu struggling to breathe, coughing, or have nasal discharge? A trusted vet offers vital guidance on respiratory issues like pneumonia and how to help.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My rat is losing weight and has breathing issues. What should I do?
Dambo's weight loss, rough breathing, and mucus worry you? A Petco veterinarian addresses these concerning symptoms and recommends urgent professional care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Is my pet's occasional sneezing and eye crust a URI symptom?
Is your pet Barry occasionally sneezing or showing eye crust? A trusted vet offers insights on common respiratory concerns and when to seek professional advice.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My sick small pet is breathing mouth open. Did I drown her feeding?
Is your pet ill, struggling to breathe, or showing stroke signs? A certified vet addresses syringe feeding worries, discusses causes, and outlines treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored