Why is my senior Yorkie breathing fast and has new black gums?

Question

My 10 year old female Yorkie started breathing more rapidly a few days ago. It's not labored breathing, just more rapid respiration, about 35-40 breaths per minute when resting. She is subdued and sleeping more than normal. She is eating and drinking but not with her normal enthusiasm. I was alarmed when I noticed most of her gums are black and I don't believe they were black before this issue. Her breath is not foul smelling. She doesn't appear to be in any pain. What could be the cause of this. Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Female | spayed | 9 lbs

Tomasz Wnuk · Accepted Answer

Hello and thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Increased resting respiratory rate is always a concern. It could be caused by heart problems or lungs disease (infection, inflammation, lung mass etc). Sometimes faster respiration is due to collapsed trachea and upper airways infection (common in Yorkies) or abdominal pathology. Please, get in touch with your vet as Bella should be checked over. Your vet may recommend chest x-ray, heart scan or abdominal ultrasound to make the final diagnosis.

Why is my senior Yorkie breathing fast and has new black gums?

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