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Is my dog's 60 breaths per minute resting rate normal for him?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | 7.3 lbs

My dog is breathing at bout 60 breaths per minute he’s not sleep he’s currently just resting, Is this normal?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on August 18th, 2019

It is a little high. I would wait after a few minutes of calm and quiet and recheck it. A dog at rest should have a respiratory rate under 30/minute. At sleep, preferably under 20/minute. Increased respiratory rates, even without distress, could be caused by heart or lung disease or anemia.

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24Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Jeffrey Milner

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 26th, 2017

    Try counting respirations per minute while Benito is laying down and sleeping (or trying to sleep). If you are counting more than 30-35 per minute, this is a definite sign of distress. If this is the case, I would take him in to be seen tonight or tomorrow morning. If you have any uncertainty as to his state of distress, do not wait until morning. Cases of respiratory distress can go from bad to worse rather quickly. Hope this helps!

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    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 1st, 2017

    At rest, a normal dog will take 10-35 breaths per minute. During times of stress or activity, this rate will increase quite a bit, usually around 40-60 breaths per minute. Your dog's respiratory rate of 140 breaths per minute is quite concerning and could indicate signs of heart disease, primary lung diseases, anemia, heartworm disease, among others. A vet should examine your dog immediately to determine the cause of this rapid respiratory rate. If your dog is also having difficulty breathing, this is an even more urgent emergency. I hope that all goes well!

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    Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 5th, 2017

    Please have her assessed by a vet as soon as possible to determine the underlying cause - heart and lung disease, fever, pain and injury can all cause an increased respiratory rate and all require very different treatments. Keep her cool in a well ventilated area to prevent her overheating until you can arrange an emergency appointment - breathing difficulties can rapidly become life threatening

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