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Why is my senior lab panting heavily and refusing to eat or drink?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | spayed | 9 years and 11 months old | 80 lbs

Sudden onset of heavy panting, wont eat or drink. 10 year old yellow lab.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on February 13th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Dakota! I would have her seen by a Vet today due to her age. There are many things that can cause an older lab to stop eating and start panting. I worry about heart failure, pneumonia, cancer or anemia from a bleeding mass in the belly. Even a fever can cause these signs. I would have her examined and see if chest and belly X-rays needs to be done. They may also recommend blood work as well. I hope this helps and I wish Dakota the best!

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