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Why is my puppy's belly moving fast and breathing heavy after walks?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shihpoo | Male | unneutered | 10 months and 13 days old | 14 lbs

Hello. I’ve a Shih poo puppy she’s 9 months old. So I got her like about a month now & I've been noticing that sometimes her breathing is heavy at times especially when after when I walk her. Eg. When she lays on her side I notice her belly moving faster than usual. I’m really worried about her. Is it serious or is it normal in small dog? When I got her from the previous owner I ask them if she has a breathing problem because anything I walk her she sometimes pant they said no. Help me pleas

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on September 22nd, 2019

Panting when walking can be normal, it's exercise and a dog's respiratory rate will increase with exercise. Plus if it's hot out, that will increase Pepa's respiratory rate. If this is only happening after exercise, this is normal.

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