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Why is my senior dog panting excessively? Is it a medical concern?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Female | spayed | 13 years and 2 months old

Why does my dog pant constantly? She is 14 years old. We have only had her for two years and know nothing of her history.

1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on June 16th, 2018

Contant panting can be a sign of a medical illness such as heart failure or even cancer. Unfortunately cancer is always a possibility in a senior dog. Sugar needs to see a vet for this constant panting, as it's not normal. The vet can do a physical exam, geriatric blood panel, urinalysis, and chest x-rays to diagnose what is causing her panting. Once a cause is found, the vet can discuss if there are treatment options available. I would take her into the vet first thing Monday. Best of luck.

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