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Is it normal for my puppy to breathe fast and shallow while sleeping?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Beagle | Male | unneutered | 10 lbs

My son brought home a stray puppy. I've noticed his breathing while asleep is very fast. Always. But not while he's awake. Other than on the lazy side, nothing else stands out that would cause concern. Eats, drinks, & plays with my Pit well. What would cause fast shallow breathing while asleep?

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4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 24th, 2018

Fast breathing, twitching, and vocalizing are all normally seen when they are sleeping and is not a concern as long as they don't do it when they are awake. If he is otherwise OK when he is awake, then no need to worry about this. He appears to be a well-cared for pup. I recommend taking him to a vet for an exam as soon as you can. The vet can scan him for a microchip (in case he's owned) and make sure he's up-to-date on vaccines and deworming. I hope that helps and all is well with Rock.

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    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 8th, 2018

    This can be normal at this age, especially when he is at the beginning of his sleep cycle. I wouldn't be concerned unless your vet has detected a heart murmur during physical exam, in which case, he should have other symptoms such as coughing during exercise or shortness of breath during play. If he does have any of these concerns, then its best to have him examined by your vet to check for underlying congenital heart disease. Otherwise he should grow out of this phase. Best wishes with your puppy Boone. Take care!

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    Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 24th, 2017

    Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! You didn't indicate Jake's age. But when young puppies are sleeping they do tend to breath deeper and more quickly. And some dogs are more noisy. If Jake is otherwise fine: eating, drinking, active and not coughing bring it up at his next puppy visit at your Vet. Good luck!

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    Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 9th, 2017

    This is normal to see them breathe fast, snore and even twitch when they are sleeping. As long as he's not breathing heavy when he's awake, then there is no concern of him having a serious complication or disease that is causing this. I hope that helps and all is well with Churro.

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