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Why is my new 8-week-old puppy breathing heavily? Is it normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Poodle | Male | unneutered | 7.3 lbs

We got a 8 week old puppy. We noticed he breaths very heavy? Is this normal

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Cara, DVM, cVMA

Veterinarian

Published on September 3rd, 2017

If Zoomer is breathing heavily while hes sleeping, he could be dreaming! Otherwise I would expect him to breathe relatively easily when he's not exerting himself. If you are worried I would mention it to your vet at his next check up and see what they think. Good luck!

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2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on April 9th, 2019

    It sounds like she may be dreaming - it's normal for both puppies and adult dogs to go through periods of fast or heavy breathing, along with twitching and sometimes even vocalizing softly, during periods of REM sleep. Just like humans :)

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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