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Why is my senior dog breathing fast while awake? Is this normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Border Collie | Female | unspayed | 12 years and 2 months old

My border collie is 12 years old and is breathing very fast tonight whilst she is awake? She is breathing 68 BPM is this normal

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 29th, 2018

It really depends on the situation. They can breathe fast normally with exercise, excitation and an increase in environmental temperature. If you are sure that none of those are a factor and her breathing rate has definitely increased from normal, then it could be due to a problem affecting the heart, lungs, or red blood cells. In this case it's best to have her evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible to prevent further complications. Below is a link to a good guide on how to evaluate her breathing before scheduling a visit to the vet. I hope that helps and all is well with Maisie.

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