Only observation and alertness can reveal so much about how a dog behaves when its frightened, ill or in pain. A dog’s behaviour is its only way of communicating, and that is its owner’s only medium into its world.

Having the proper insight into a dog’s behaviour in the car can provide safety for both the pet and the driver. A pet owner who sees the world from the pet’s perspective will have no problem controlling how the dog reacts in the car.

This article serves to boost your understanding of dog pants and why dogs pant in the car. A pet owner who needs to gain valuable insight into how to predict the pet’s behaviour will be helped a great deal by reading this article.

Why Do Dogs Pant In The Car?

Dogs pant always, and it could be rapid or slow; it is an inevitable behaviour of theirs. But what exactly causes a dog to pant? Some pet owners get confused and probably try to shut their dog’s mouths, while some fully understand the reason for panting.

We would enable you to understand this typical dog behaviour better by describing the mechanism of panting, what causes panting and when panting can indicate a problem. Then we would describe the causes and health issue-related signs to look out for.

An Explanation Of Panting

Dog panting is a usual breathing method for dogs that can either be fast, very slow or just calm. Generally, dogs breathe with their mouths open, and their tongues fall slightly. 

An efficient way for humans to cool off is by perspiring (sweating) through our sweat glands and breathing through our nostrils. Every healthy human cools off through this mechanism.

However, it is not the same process for dogs as they do not have sweat glands all over their skin. By far, a dog’s most effective method of cooling off is by panting. 

You May Like To Read: Common Health Problems in Red Nose Pitbull

The Normal Causes Of Panting

Here are the several causes of panting; heavy and abnormal panting is the most common sign of these enlisted health symptoms and other normal dog life experiences. 

1. Heatstroke 

Being in a hot environment makes a dog prone to heat stroke. Do not leave your dog without water when you are in the car, and provide shade when you are outdoors to avoid heat stroke.

Not all dogs are prone to heat stroke; dogs with thin fur, no medical conditions and dogs with wide noses are exempted. Thick-furred, short-nosed, and medically deteriorated dogs are extremely prone to heat stroke. 

Closely observe your pet dog during exercise and playtime, especially when the weather seems hot or humid. Heatstroke symptoms are excessive panting, discomfort, drooling, mental dullness, reddened gum, uncoordinated steps, fainting, tiredness & vomiting.

2. Anxiety

Anxiety-induced panting usually requires active support and patience. Do you have an anxious dog? Are you at a loss on how well to go about the situation? Maybe some insight would help.

Here are some clinical signs and mental effects of anxiety, alongside steps to take to calm your dog’s anxiousness.

Clinical signs of anxiety include:

• Unusual pacing
• Trembling & shaking
• Hyperactivity
• Lip smacking
• Barking
• Whining
• Excessive tail wagging
• Stiff tail

Mental effects of anxiety include:

• Salivating way too much 
• Dilated pupils
• Heart rate and panting increase

Once you observe any of these signs and you are not able to handle them professionally on your own, consult a veterinarian doctor.

3. Pain

All dogs feel pain; it is a common phenomenon, and its owner would never know. They just hide in a corner and lick their wounds. A way to know if your dog is in pain is by its panting; you can notice, especially at night.

Administer some pain relief to reduce the pain so the dog can rest. If you cannot administer treatment on your own, a veterinarian can help you.

4. Allergic Reaction

Dogs with allergies usually go through situations where they need to struggle for breath. Dogs are allergic to feathers, drugs, animal proteins, grass, pollen, mould, smoke from cigarettes, and chemicals.

Allergies, apart from causing your dog to struggle for breath, can also cause vomiting & lethargy. Consult a veterinary doctor when you realise your dog is panting due to an allergy.

5. Temperature regulation

Lack of sweat glands limits airflow for dogs; sweating through paw pads enables them to cool off, but it is never enough. 

Proper temperature regulation in dogs is achieved only by panting. Panting enables them to get cool air from their surroundings and expel hot air from their lungs. 

You should observe your environment and see if there is actually a need for your dog to pant heavily. Panting is normal. There is an environmental factor causing it. The dog just needs to cool off.

6. Obesity

An overweight pet dog is prone to difficulty breathing, leading to unusual panting. Overweight dog pants more than usual to catch their breath and get oxygen into their body system.

A veterinarian doctor is in the best condition to offer you helpful guidance and tips on how to handle an issue like this, and it is also very necessary to act fast once you observe panting due to being overweight. 

Being overweight makes a dog prone to serious health problems like arthritis, airway obstruction, and heart failure.

7. Traumatic Experiences

This can happen at home, when travelling, on a walk, during playtime or even when your pet is alone. Dogs get overwhelmed and scared when they face something scary enough to cause trauma.

As a result of fear, they tend to pant because their heart skips several beats. Traumatic incidents sometimes lead to death for many dogs who are not brave enough. 

If you happen to face a scary incident with your dog and he starts panting to catch his breath, offer some massage or cold water to calm his nerves.

8. Heart failure

Many dogs suffering from congestive heart failure get tired very easily, stamina deteriorates, movement becomes uncoordinated, and they refuse to play, exercise or walk as usual.

Asides from panting, belly swell, pale, reddish or bluish gum, consistent loss of appetite, excessive coughing and sleeping are heart failure signs.

9. Loss of breath

Breathing problems in dogs can be a result of allergic reactions or severe diseases of the heart or lungs. 

Suppose clinical abnormalities such as wheezing, dry cough, red eyes, discomfort, and panting are observed. In that case, the first step should be to take your pet to the veterinarian for a medical checkup. 

Only a veterinarian can determine what’s causing the loss of breath and treat your pet.

10. Fear

Fearful dogs pant when something is clearly upsetting them or when they are facing a scary incident. Every dog has the potential to pant a lot when scared, so it is important to observe your dog at all times.

A dog has the tendency to harm itself or get so aggressive if it is not removed on time from a scary situation.

11. Thirst

Thirst is one of the major reasons why dogs pant unusually, especially during hot days. Sometimes pet owners forget that their pets need water, they forget to refill their bowls with water, and this makes the dog start panting. 

If you observe your dog panting uncomfortably, try checking his water bowl to see if there is any water left. Refilling it will cool and clean water and see your dog’s unusual panting reduce.

12. Fever

Fever can make your pet’s body get so hot, and only panting can reduce the overheating caused by such a situation. It helps the dog to cool down.

13. Respiratory Illness

Does your dog have any respiratory issues that you know of? Has he been diagnosed with respiratory issues by a veterinary doctor? Then excessive panting might be caused by a reoccurring disturbance in the respiratory system.

Dogs experience respiratory system issues such as:

• Pneumonia
• Rhinitis
• Chronic bronchitis
• Kennel cough
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Collapse of the trachea
• Lung cancer or disease
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease 

If there is an observance of excessive panting and you know of some respiratory issues your dog may have, please consult a veterinarian. 

If you observe excessive panting and your dog is yet to be diagnosed, it could also be a respiratory issue; consult a veterinarian.

13. Cushing’s Disease

Middle-aged and adult dogs often suffer from this hormonal imbalance disease called Cushing’s Disease. It is only triggered when steroids, also called cortisol, get produced excessively by the dog’s two adrenal glands. 

Only a veterinarian can diagnose and provide treatment procedures and medications to the ailing dog. 

Here are some symptoms associated with Cushing’s Disease in dogs: 

• A resulting potbelly (This may be an abdomen enlargement, so get it checked out immediately) 
• Increase in thirst
• Increase in appetite
• Resistance to physical activities and exercise 
• Skin gets so thin and fragile
• Gradual hair loss
• Abnormal panting
• Increase in the need to urinate
• Skin infections reoccur after treatment 

When Dog Panting Might Indicate A Health Problem 

When you are anywhere with your dog, it is important to stay alert and observe your dog and your surroundings. If your dog pants as a result of fear, thirst, & anxiety, look around to find a possible reason why this is happening.

A dog can get scared when he sees something frightening, thirsty when the weather is hot & anxious when it is worried. The pet’s owner can handle all these, and soon enough, the dog will be calm.

However, panting when there is no danger, the atmosphere is cool, no thirst, & no injuries might indicate a health problem. 

Here are some behavioural patterns that indicate health failure and cause a dog to pant abnormally: 

• Rapid breathing
• Change in eating pattern
• Lack of sleep
• Refusal to exercise
• Tiredness, drowsiness, dizziness
• Changes in faeces 
• Changes in urine
• Excessive whining or barking
• Vomiting
• Red and irritated eyes
• Running nose
• Inability to move normally

Common Reasons Why Dogs Pant In The Car

1. Stress Or Anxiety

While on a journey with your dog, you may notice that it is stressed out or anxious and panting as a result. An effective way to soothe your pet when this happens is to speak softly to it and pet it gently.

Here are some signs/symptoms of stress, anxiety or fear in dogs: 

• Crouching abnormally
• Yawning too much
• Behaving in a reclusive manner
• Whining
• Tucked or Hardened tail
• Hiding behind objects
• Flattening the ears
• Clinginess
• Drooling
• Refusing food
• Lack of appetite
• Reddened eyes and gum

2. Excitement Or Anticipation

Humans may see journeying as a normal and mere thing. But it is something that excites a lot of dogs.

Get a dog ready for a journey, place it into a car, start driving and watch how it starts jumping around in excitement. Another sign of excitement, apart from panting, is the waggling of its tail.

3. Overheating

Your dog is only panting to regulate its body temperature as a result of overheating. It is usually hot outside when driving. Panting is the only mechanism it can use to achieve evaporative cooling.

No need to panic when this is happening. You can facilitate the process by using cold water on its fur coat. 

Also, offer some cold water to drink, & place it in a much cooler area where there is no sun. This can help the dog to cool off faster and relax. 

4. Motion Sickness

Dog motion or car sickness is as real as their panting behaviour. Your journey also has a tendency to be stressful for both you and your dog.

Another sign of motion sickness apart from panting is vomiting, so ensure that you have some vomiting pills in the car.

Some dogs outgrow their motion sickness tendencies as they grow, while some find it difficult to outgrow them. If you happen to observe that your dog can’t outgrow motion sickness, take these enlisted steps to help your dog get used to long or short journeys.

• The car’s temperature should be cool, not hot
• Wind windows down for the dog to get fresh air
• Excess food and water before the trip can cause vomiting, limit food and water.
• Travel with some medications for motion sickness, vomiting pills and anti-anxiety pills.
• Perform stress relief exercises with your dog at least thirty minutes before travelling.

Distinguishing Normal Panting From Problematic Panting In The Car

Let us give a well-detailed difference between normal panting and problematic panting in the car. 

Normal Panting 

1. A dog’s panting pattern in the car is considered normal when the atmosphere is hot. This may indicate thirst or overheating.

2. A dog can pant excessively after exercising & jumping around; this is normal, as it just needs to catch its breath. Some cool drinking water will help it calm down.

3. Panting as a result of excitement is also very normal.

These enlisted reasons constitute normal panting.

Problematic Panting

1. Excessive panting when there is no observed surrounding influence

2. The dog may look flushed and red

3. When the panting starts suddenly, it sounds inappropriate.

4. The panting is consistent and very intense

5. Excessive whining as a result of pain

6. Panting Sounds more harsh, raspy, and louder than normal 

Once any of these are observed, there is a problem with your dog. A veterinarian doctor can be of help if you have no idea how to go about the issue.

When To Consult A Veterinarian

Observe closely for these abnormal signs, and consult a veterinarian if you cannot successfully manage the situation: 

1. A sudden change in how your dog eats might require a veterinarian because that may be a digestive system-related health issue.

2. Change in the colour of urine, excessive urine or less urine, resistance to water or drinking too much water. All these are kidney related and may be an underlying kidney condition or a diabetic condition.

3. Catarrh, cough, and wheezing are respiratory system issues that can cause breath loss. Once you observe breathing difficulty, consult a veterinarian doctor.

4. Throwing up, watery stool, hard stool, & tummy aches are signs of diarrhoea, constipation, digestive inflammation, or an allergic reaction. Rush your pet to the veterinary clinic once these signs are observed.

5. Refusal to play might mean that your dog is sick. See the doctor when your dog is resisting any kind of physical activity.

6. Irritation, difficulty in balancing steps, and drowsiness are all signs of a fever, flu or an unknown disease. Only a veterinarian doctor who understands animal behaviour professionally can help your pet.

7. Consult the veterinarian doctor when there are a lot of ticks, heat rashes, hair breakage and skin conditions.

8. A sustained injury can inflict severe pain on your pet. Visit the veterinary clinic for tetanus shots and clean up the wound.

9. Sudden barking, pacing, wincing and growling changes may indicate illness or pain. You may need to consult a professional to determine the issue.

Tips To Reduce Panting In The Car 

When planning a trip and you are taking your dog along, it is important to know that it will need comfort. Acknowledging the need for comfort provides a soothing experience for both you and your pet.

Let’s take a look at some tips to avoid problematic panting in the car:

1. Creating A Comfortable Environment

Travelling with your pet in really hot weather can make it very uncomfortable. Creating a small shelter for the dog can help it to relax. 

You can also create a comfortable environment by providing items for comfort; a blanket and some toys will be of great help, especially when you are going on a long journey.

2. Utilising Dog Anxiety Aids

Dog anxiety is a real problem; fortunately, there are pills to help with the problem; travel with some anxiety pills. 

You can also soothe your anxious dog by 

• Turning a movie on
• Giving him a massage
• Offering some food
• Offering some water 
• Turn on the AC while driving
• Play music to keep the dog engaged
• Give him supplements to make him calm 
• Give him treats
• Calm him by cuddling, petting and stroking him

3. Ensuring Proper Hydration And Ventilation

Overheating can make your dog pant excessively. Avoid this by taking the windows down a little. 

You can also switch on the car’s air conditioner to stimulate proper ventilation.

To ensure proper hydration, give the dog drinking water regularly.

4. Gradual Conditioning For Car Rides

You should avoid making your pet excessively cold by turning on the AC to the highest. It is important to regulate the air conditioner, not too hot and not too cold, just average.

Seeking Professional Help For Persistent Panting 

If you observe persistent panting more often than usual and you can’t figure out a reasonable cause, you may need to consult a veterinarian. 

Ensure to take note of any symptom whatsoever and everything about your dog because questions might be asked.

What To Expect At A Veterinary Visit 

To avoid being taken unaware, prepping before going to the veterinary clinic can help a great deal.

1. Expect to be asked about the medical record of your pet.

2. Your pet will be weighed

3. The veterinary doctor may ask about other recent symptoms or behavioural changes.

4. A sample of the last drug given to the pet might be requested

5. You will answer questions about its diet plan.

6. When was the last time you vaccinated your pet?

7. Expect that your pet might be uncomfortable, be ready to massage him or give him some treats.

8. They will listen to their heart and lungs (breathing pattern)

9. Examination of ears, mouth, tongue, tooth, nails, hair, skin, genitals, eyes and feet

10. Examination of faeces, rectal temperature and urine

Questions You Should Ask Your Pet’s, Veterinary Doctor 

1. What Diet Do You Recommend?

All pets cannot handle the same meals, a particular pet can eat a brand’s dog food happily, and another one simply vomits when fed the same dog food.

It is important to ask your dog’s veterinarian about a better diet; the vet will know what to recommend after examining your dog and diagnosing its health issue.

2. How Long Should I Make Him Exercise?

This is a question especially necessary for an overweight dog; exercise is important for such dogs, but it is also wise to know how long exercise activities should last. This will help you know when the dog is stressed out as a pet owner.

Other factors that make a dog’s exercise pattern vary include: Age, sex, health condition, and weight. 

3. Based On My Pet’s Breed And Weight, What Common Diseases Should I Expect?

Not all dog breeds are prone to diseases, and some breeds are prone to certain diseases. 

If you acquaint yourself with the knowledge of common diseases your pet is prone to, then you will be able to diagnose and tackle an illness situation when the need arises.

4. How Often Does My Pet Need Veterinary Visits?

Routine medical checkups for your buddy are mandatory; just like living beings, dogs also need to be regularly tested in order to stay healthy.

Based on the age, breed, weight, and sex of your dog, its veterinary doctor will be able to give accurate information on how frequent your visits should be. 

5. How Can I Handle Ticks? 

Are you observing an incessant increase of ticks on the skin of your lovely pet? Please don’t hesitate to make inquiries during a Veterinary visit in order to figure out how to handle the underlying issue.

6. Why Does My Dog Pant In The Car?

Veterinarians know virtually everything about dog pants. All you need to do is explain the way your dog pants vividly and give information about his health status. Was it a long or short journey? 

You will be asked certain questions after you have asked this. The vet will only be able to give an accurate answer to your question if you are able to give all the accurate answers to his.

Possible Treatments For Excessive Panting In The Car 

1. Natural Treatments 

• A soft massage
• Talk to your dog softly. This will calm it down
• Offer some chilled water
• Make the temperature of your car cool
• Offer some food or dog treats
• Use a cold towel on its skin. This will keep his temperature down, especially if he is hot.
• Give him his favourite toys to play with

Other Treatments

• Intravenous therapy 
• Steroids
• Pet-friendly supplements
• Pet-friendly herbs

FAQ

Summary

Panting in the car is normal for a dog until followed by abnormalities like wheezing, sneezing or shaking. 

Understanding that there is a lot more to your dog’s panting pattern than temperature regulation can make your car journey more comfortable.

Creating a comfortable and pleasing experience during car rides for your dog can reduce panting. Consult a veterinarian when clinical signs like heart failure, vomiting & lethargy are observed alongside excessive panting.

If you have friends or family members who own dogs, this article may be of help to them. Feel free to share what you have learnt in this article or share just the link so they can learn.

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