Overview

Respiratory distress is a serious medical emergency that occurs when a dog cannot get enough oxygen to meet its body’s demands and requires immediate attention. Several conditions may predispose a dog to respiratory distress. Prompt recognition of the signs of respiratory distress is critical for responding quickly in an emergency to help your dog.

What is normal breathing (respiration) in dogs?

Healthy dogs breathe either through their nose or mouth. This air is then warmed, humidified and filtered as it travels from the upper to the lower airway. The lower airway branches and directs air into the lungs. The branching in the lower airway catches particles and triggers the cough reflex to expel any foreign material. In the lungs, oxygen is exchanged for carbon dioxide. A normal respiratory rate for dogs is 12-30 breaths per minute. Dogs breathe more slowly and deeply when resting, while they may pant heavily during times of stress, excitement, exertion, or to cool down on a hot summer day. 

What is respiratory distress and what does it look like?

Respiratory distress occurs when a dog cannot get enough oxygen to meet its body’s demands.

Signs of respiratory distress may include:

• Rapid breathing, often with an open mouth
• A bluish tinge to their gums and muzzle
• Abdominal effort while breathing (contraction of the abdomen)
• Extended head and neck in an attempt to maximize airflow
• Increased breathing sounds (wheezing, snorting, or whistling)
• Weakness or collapse

What to do if your dog has difficulty breathing?

If you notice that your dog is showing any signs of respiratory distress, quickly and calmly take them to the nearest emergency animal hospital. Call ahead when possible so the staff can prepare for your arrival and meet your dog’s needs. 

You can help optimize your dog’s breathing effort during the car ride to the veterinary hospital by keeping the car temperature cool with air conditioning. Heat can cause excessive panting, which may worsen their breathing. If they are weak or unable to stand, lay them on their stomach with a pillow underneath their chin and neck extended. Try to speak softly to them to help keep them calm.

What causes respiratory distress?

There are many conditions that can cause respiratory distress, including:

• Inadequate functioning of the larynx or vocal folds (laryngeal paralysis)
• A collapse or severe narrowing of the trachea or windpipe (tracheal collapse)
• Brachycephalic airway syndrome
• Asthma
• Bronchitis
• Air or fluid around the lungs (pneumothorax or pleural effusion)
• Fluid within the lungs (pulmonary edema)
• Fluid within and/or around the heart (pericardial effusion)
• Heart disease
• Severe infections (pneumonia)
• Severe inflammation
• Parasites
• Cancer

Additionally, there are disorders that can mimic respiratory disease, including:

• Neuromuscular disease
• Low number of red blood cells
• A disturbance in the pH of the blood
• Pain
• Anxiety

What if I’m not sure my dog is in respiratory distress?

If you’re unsure if your dog is in respiratory distress, always seek help. Intervening early can help prevent other complications and may make the treatment more effective, resulting in a shorter hospital duration for some conditions. 

If you are unsure if your dog needs immediate care, you may consider a veterinary telehealth service. Many offer veterinary triage via phone or video, allowing a licensed veterinarian to speak with you, observe your dog and determine if urgent care is needed. 

Updated March 2025