Why is my senior dog breathing fast at rest? Could it be anxiety?

Question

My dog breathes fast all the time at rest at sleep and its been going on a long time. I can barely walk to get to the vet when I did go they said her heart is ok they seemed to brush it off. I know its called tachapnea. What can I do to slow her breathing down. Shes 11 years old 12 lbs chi mix she eats and drinks no coughing no vomit no loose stools. Could it be there is nothing we can do. I cannot spend thousands at the vet. She is on Ativan half of 1mg in half- low dose as she has anxiety. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 12 lbs

Dr. Kristin DVM · Accepted Answer

I'm glad Trinket was seen by a veterinarian and they didn't think her heart was a problem. I recommend using a little notebook to keep track of her resting respiratory rate. You can record the number of breaths she takes when she is sleeping and monitor this over time. If this number is increasing over time it is worth a recheck with your veterinarian. If Trinket seems fine during the day, and the number is higher one time, that is not a need for concern. It is trend over time that is more important. For anxiety, I like Composure chews and Adaptil diffusers. If these don't help, there are prescription medications that you can discuss with your veterinarian. https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/dog/dog-health-and-wellness/dog-calming-aids/comfort-zone-diffuser-with-dap-for-dogs

Why is my senior dog breathing fast at rest? Could it be anxiety?

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