Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | unneutered | 4 years and 1 month old | 170 lbs
My 4 year old pitbull has lost all the muscle mass on the top right side of his head, but seems to be fine. Also he has been breathing very hard when he is trying to sleep, exceeding 40 breaths a minute. My next vet appointment is in a week and I am a minor so i cant take him to the ER
1 Answer
Published on September 16th, 2019
There are a condition called masticatory muscle myositis in dogs that can cause this to happen (see link below). I don't know how the breathing rate could be related to this condition, though. I think as long as Rocky is able to eat well and has a good energy level, he could wait until next week. If he develops additional symptoms, though, he may need to see the vet sooner. https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&catId=102899&id=4952111
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