Dog restless and panting at night? Don’t ignore 9 warning signs

Panting is completely normal in dogs. They pant for various reasons, especially when hot, excited, or exercising, to regulate their body temperature.

However, nighttime panting is different.

If your dog is panting at night and restless for no apparent reason, owners should be concerned and learn to recognize the symptoms of excessive nighttime panting.

Why do dogs pant?

You don’t need to worry about your dog panting. Your dog’s ability to regulate its body temperature is limited, so panting typically occurs on hot days or during high nighttime temperatures. Dogs cool themselves by panting.

Dogs can’t sweat, so they cool down by releasing heat through their paw pads, but it’s not very effective. So, they use their mouth to eliminate the body heat they’ve produced through various activities.

This means expelling hot air from the mouth and exchanging it with fresh air to cool down.

This typically happens after a long walk in humid weather or an exercise session.

Heavy breathing also occurs in extreme heat without any activity; this is also fine.

Abnormally heavy panting and restlessness during rest, even in optimal weather conditions or at night when it is not hot, are common signs of something serious.

Reasons your dog is heavily panting and restless

Heavy, abnormal painting can cause pacing and restlessness.

The cause of restless behavior or heavy breathing can vary, so watch for these panting warning signs of an underlying health condition:

Cushing’s Disease 

Cushing’s syndrome occurs when your dog has too much cortisol in the bloodstream.

That’s also why your dog might be panting a lot. In addition, other symptoms of Cushing include increased thirst, hunger, urination, hair loss, and a pot-bellied appearance.

This syndrome is common in older dogs, and adrenal gland issues are among the leading causes of heavy panting.

If left untreated, Cushing’s disease can lead to severe complications such as diabetes mellitus, urinary tract infections, and an increased risk of developing infections due to a compromised immune system.

Chronic elevations in cortisol can cause muscle wasting and obesity, hindering mobility and overall quality of life.

Respiratory disease

Respiratory issues or diseases can affect the dog’s breathing capabilities and make it hard for oxygen to enter the bloodstream. The dog might struggle to pant normally, even after a small exercise session.

This can lead to heavy and abnormal panting.

Also, check the dog’s tongue and see if it’s pink. If your dog’s tongue is blue, purple, or grey, it isn’t getting enough oxygen. This condition is dangerous, and you need to take your dog to the vet immediately.

Senior dogs are at higher risk for respiratory diseases and heart conditions. These health problems can hinder their ability to breathe comfortably, especially at rest, leading to heavy panting at night.

Conditions like pneumonia or chronic bronchitis can worsen over time, leading to respiratory failure if not appropriately managed.

Persistent oxygen deprivation can cause long-term damage to organs, affecting overall health and vitality.

Heart disease

This might lead to significant difficulty breathing, and excessive panting and coughing can also be symptoms of heart disease or heart failure.

If this is the case, you will notice heavy breathing after walking for a short distance.

Heart disease may lead to congestive heart failure, which can result in fluid accumulation in the lungs, making it increasingly difficult for the dog to breathe.

Damage to the heart muscle can also increase the risk of heart arrhythmias, which can be life-threatening.

Heatstroke

Dog heatstroke or overheating causes heavy panting, leading to dehydration. If untreated, heatstroke can become dangerous and even deadly.

Temperatures over 106°F (41°C) can put your dog in danger. High temperatures combined with high humidity can be hazardous.

Short-nosed breeds like pugs often struggle, especially from heat exhaustion or heatstroke, so be aware. You should avoid leaving them alone in cars; this applies to every dog, so if you’re leaving them inside, turn on the air conditioner, or better still, leave the dog at home.

Older dogs may be less able to regulate their body temperature in warm weather, making them more heat-sensitive. Senior dogs may pant to cool down if the environment is too warm, especially at night when temperatures fluctuate.

If a dog suffers from heatstroke, it can quickly enter a state of shock, leading to multi-organ failure.

Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can result in neurological damage, kidney failure, or even death.

If you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke, acting quickly is vital.

First, move the dog to a cooler, shaded area to prevent further overheating. Start by offering small amounts of cool water to drink, but avoid forcing it if the dog is distressed.

Use cool, damp cloths to gently wipe down the dog’s body, especially the neck, armpits, and groin, as these are key cooling points.

A fan, if available, can also help circulate air around the dog.

Monitor the dog closely for signs of distress and keep an eye on its temperature, aiming to lower it gradually; rapid cooling can cause shock.

Once the dog shows signs of improvement, you must take it to a veterinarian for further evaluation and care, as heatstroke can have serious and lasting effects.

Causes of panting

Keep an eye on your dog’s panting sounds. Knowing this can help you identify abnormal panting.

Panting at night differs from daytime panting, leading to sleepless nights and suggesting that something is wrong with the dog.

There are a few causes you can look into to understand why your dog pants excessively.

Stress or anxiety

Like every other living creature, dogs experience stress and anxiety. A distressed dog can calm down by panting, but a stressed dog might struggle to sleep well at night.

Loud sounds, such as fireworks and thunderstorms, are stressful for dogs. They make them sleepless and cause panting throughout the night.

A dog with separation anxiety might find it hard to sleep without the owner, wander around the house, and pant at night. Dogs suffering from separation anxiety are prone to panting at night.

Panting helps dogs experiencing distress relax during a traumatic event.

Senior dogs often experience anxious behaviors due to changes in their environment or routine.

Separation anxiety can become more pronounced as dogs age. Sounds from outside, such as thunderstorms or fireworks, can trigger anxiety, resulting in nocturnal panting.

Chronic stress can lead to behavioral issues, including aggression or fear-based reactions, worsening the dog’s and owner’s quality of life.

Dogs suffering from anxiety are also at risk for gastrointestinal issues, such as pancreatitis, due to stress-related eating behaviors.

Environmental issues

High temperatures can take a toll on your dog.

Temperatures above 95°F (35°C) can be too much for some dogs.

Higher temperatures can affect older dogs and puppies, making it harder for them to regulate their body temperature.

Pain or injury

See whether the dog has any pain conditions or injuries.

Dogs with pain conditions like arthritis are very vulnerable to panting and restlessness.

Untreated allergies can also be a problem and cause dogs to pant at night.

Older dogs are more susceptible to arthritis and other pain-related conditions. Discomfort from joint pain can make it difficult for them to find a comfortable sleeping position, leading to restlessness and panting as they struggle to settle down.

Ongoing pain from conditions like arthritis can limit mobility and lead to further joint issues or obesity due to inactivity.

Untreated injuries can result in chronic pain, which might necessitate more invasive treatments or surgeries down the line.

If you can’t find any injuries, check whether any of the diseases mentioned could be causing excessive panting.

Canine Cognitive Disorder (dog dementia)

Dementia is one of the most common reasons for older dogs to pant and become restless at night.

Senior dogs with Canine Cognitive Disorder, also known as Canine Cognitive Dysfunction, often are sleepless and roam the house at night due to sleep-wake cycle disturbance.

Canine Cognitive Disorder can also make the dog forget their surroundings, leading to anxiety and causing panting and restlessness.

As the disease progresses, it can lead to significant behavioral changes, including aggression, loss of house training, and an inability to recognize familiar surroundings or family members.

Poorly managed cognitive disorders can diminish a dog’s quality of life, resulting in anxiety and depression, potentially leading to further health deterioration.

If your dog is panting, these are the most common reasons.

Before treating your dog, check whether it has any of these symptoms. Determining the cause can make treating panting easier.

Medications

Older dogs may be on various medications for health conditions, some of which can have side effects, including increased panting.

Always consult your veterinarian if you notice changes in your dog’s behavior, especially if they’re on medication.

What can you do to stop your dog from panting and being restless?

There are some ways you can stop your dog from panting, but be sure to identify the cause:

If the dog is overheating:

• Recognize the signs of heatstroke. Including excessive panting, rapid breathing, excessive drooling, bright red gums and tongue, rapid heart rate, hot skin, weakness, or collapse.
• Give them water.
• If you’re inside your house, take the dog to a better-ventilated area or a cool spot, or to the hospital; make sure to turn on the air conditioner.
• Try cooling the dog by splashing them with water or by using a hose to wet them down.
• If you think it’s serious, seek medical attention.

If it’s a stress or anxiety issue:

• First, identify what’s causing the dog stress and act from there; if it’s due to environmental sounds, spend some time providing a calm environment.
• If it’s separation anxiety, try considering a professional trainer or behaviorist to help the dog with this issue.
• Spend some time with the dog.
• Supplements like CBD oil can also help.

How does CBD oil help with stress and anxiety issues?

You can try CBD hemp oil for pets, which can help relieve stress and anxiety that might cause panting. CBD is a natural hemp plant substance with calming and relaxing properties.

It alters the brain’s receptors’ response to serotonin (a hormone that helps stabilize emotions, mood, and feelings of wellness, and helps manage anxiety).

Recognize the signs of excessive panting

Recognizing when dog panting becomes excessive is essential to your pet’s health and well-being.

Here are some specific tips to help you identify abnormal panting and the steps you should take if you observe it:

Recognizing excessive panting

Duration: If your dog pants for an extended period, especially when not engaged in physical activity or in a hot environment, it may be a sign of stress or a health issue.

Breathing depth: Notice if the panting is more rapid or deeper than usual. Normal panting typically has a rhythm, while excessive panting may appear erratic.

Accompanying symptoms: Look for other signs such as lethargy, excessive drooling, shaking, vomiting, or difficulty breathing. These can be indicators of underlying health problems.

Change in environment: If your dog starts panting heavily after a change in their surroundings, it may be due to anxiety rather than temperature regulation.

Age and breed considerations: Older dogs or certain breeds (like Bulldogs or Pugs) are more prone to respiratory issues. Be more vigilant with these dogs’ panting behavior.

Dog breeds prone to excessive panting

Certain dog breeds are more susceptible to health conditions leading to abnormal panting.

Here are a few notable examples:

Bulldogs: Bulldogs, including English and French variants, often face breathing difficulties due to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure. This can lead to conditions like Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), which can cause panting, especially in stressful or hot environments. Even light exercise can be challenging.

Pugs: Like bulldogs, they are also brachycephalic. When they are overly excited or overheated, they may experience airflow issues, leading to excessive panting.

Boxers: Boxers can develop a range of health issues, including cardiomyopathy, which can cause abnormal panting or heavy breathing as the heart struggles to pump effectively.

Labrador Retrievers: While generally healthy, Labradors can be prone to obesity, which may lead to respiratory problems and increased panting, especially during exercise.

Dachshunds: This breed is prone to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). Pain from this condition can cause panting, even if the dog isn’t physically active.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels: They are prone to mitral valve disease, a heart condition that can cause panting, especially during exertion or stress due to reduced blood circulation.

Chihuahuas: These small dogs may develop respiratory issues or heart disease, which can lead to abnormal panting, especially when anxious or excited. Limit time spent on an energetic play session.

Steps to take if you observe abnormal panting

Assess the situation: Determine if your dog might be overheated, stressed, or in pain. If it’s a hot day, move them to a cooler area.

Check temperature: Feel your dog’s ears or use a thermometer to check its body temperature. Dogs’ normal body temperature is around 101-102.5°F. If it’s elevated, seek veterinary advice.

Hydration: Ensure your dog has access to fresh water. Dehydration can exacerbate excessive panting.

Calm the environment: If you suspect anxiety, try eliminating stressors in their environment or using calming aids, such as soft music or a calm voice, to reassure them.

Keep a journal: Documenting episodes of excessive panting, including time, conditions, and any other symptoms, can help your vet diagnose potential issues.

Is it time to see the vet?

If you suspect anything serious, make sure to visit your vet immediately.

If any of these symptoms occur, immediately call your vet:

• Heatstroke.
• If panting gets seriously intense.
• If you see any injury leading to panting.
• If the dog’s tongue turns into the colors mentioned above.
• Panting without reason.

If the situation is more serious, the dog may need to be hospitalized for further treatment.

Please do not leave your dog untreated when you witness abnormal panting, as the situation can only worsen.

Regular checkups are crucial for dogs 

Regular checkups and preventive care for your furry friend are vital as a dog owner.

Like humans, dogs can suffer from health issues that may not be noticeable initially. Routine checkups ensure your dog’s well-being and catch any potential health problems early.

Regular checkups help detect any underlying health conditions.

Dogs may not always show obvious signs of illness or discomfort, making it difficult for owners to identify when something is wrong.

By bringing your dog in for regular checkups, a veterinarian can perform a thorough physical examination and run necessary tests to monitor your dog’s overall health. This can help catch potential issues before they become serious problems.

Preventive care is crucial in maintaining your dog’s health and preventing diseases.

Aside from detecting potential health issues early on, regular checkups allow you to build a strong relationship with your veterinarian.

This means that in an emergency or if your dog’s behavior or physical appearance changes suddenly, you have someone you trust who knows your pet’s medical history and can provide quick, effective treatment.

Ensuring your dog receives regular checkups and preventive care is crucial to your dog’s overall well-being. It helps detect and prevent health issues, allows for early intervention, and builds a strong relationship with your veterinarian.

By prioritizing your dog’s health through routine checkups, you can ensure they live a happy and healthy life with you.

Help your dog

If your dog is panting abnormally at night, remaining calm is essential.

Dogs can sense our stress, and getting anxious will only add to their distress.

Check for physical discomfort

Examine your dog for any physical discomfort or signs of pain. Look for any injuries, swelling, or unusual lumps. If you notice anything unusual, consult your veterinarian immediately.

Keep them cool

Make sure your dog is in a cool and well-ventilated environment. Provide access to fresh water and consider using fans or air conditioning to help lower the temperature.

Reduce anxiety

If your dog’s abnormal panting seems to be related to anxiety, try to create a soothing environment. Consider using calming aids, such as pheromone diffusers or pet-specific calming music.

Monitor their breathing

Keep an eye on your dog’s breathing patterns and note any changes. If the abnormal panting persists or worsens, seek veterinary attention promptly.

Consult a veterinarian

If your dog continues to experience abnormal nighttime panting, seeking professional help is essential. Your veterinarian can thoroughly examine your dog and provide specific advice tailored to its needs.

Remember, abnormal panting in dogs can be a sign of an underlying health issue, so it’s crucial to address the problem promptly and seek professional guidance.

Tips for nighttime comfort

Create a cool, comfortable sleeping environment

• Maintain room temperature between 60-67°F (15-19°C)
• Use cooling mats or breathable bedding for better airflow
• Ensure good air circulation with a fan
• Keep fresh water easily accessible

Establish a calming bedtime routine

• Set consistent sleep and wake times
• Engage in gentle petting or massage before bed
• Play soft music or white noise to reduce anxiety
• Dim the lights gradually to signal bedtime

Time activities appropriately

• Avoid intense exercise within 2-3 hours of bedtime
• Finish the last meal at least 2 hours before sleep
• Take a final bathroom break right before bed

Address anxiety and stress

• Create a quiet, den-like space away from noise
• Use calming aids like pheromone diffusers or anxiety wraps
• Keep a familiar item nearby, like a favorite blanket
• Consider a nightlight if your dog seems anxious in the darkness

Frequently asked questions

Is panting always a sign of heat?

Can medication cause panting?

How can I comfort my anxious dog at night?

When should I worry about nighttime panting?

Is panting normal in older dogs?

Can diet affect nighttime panting?

Track your dog’s panting episodes

What to record

• Date and time: When does the panting occur?
• Duration: How long does each episode last?
• Intensity: Mild, moderate, or severe panting?
• Triggers: What happened before the panting started? (exercise, eating, noise, temperature change)
• Other symptoms: Restlessness, drooling, whining, pacing, or behavioral changes
• Environmental factors: Room temperature, time since last meal, recent activities
• Response to intervention: Did cooling measures, water, or comfort help?

Simple tracking template

Why tracking matters

• Identify patterns you might miss (time of day, seasonal changes, diet correlations)
• Determine if the condition is worsening or improving
• Rule out or confirm specific diagnoses
• Make more informed treatment decisions
• Monitor the effectiveness of any prescribed treatments

Don’t wait if your dog pants excessively

Panting is completely normal until it becomes abnormal; however, panting at night can have various causes, and it’s up to the owner to identify the potential reasons why your canine companion is panting excessively.

If you notice your dog exhibiting any warning signs, especially signs of heatstroke, seek medical treatment immediately.

When to call your vet: Emergency checklist

? Call your vet immediately if your dog:

• Pants uncontrollably for more than 10 minutes
• Shows blue or grey gums/tongue
• Collapses or becomes weak
• Has a rapid heart rate or excessive drooling
• Exhibits confusion or disorientation
• Is unable to stand or walk properly
• Has a swollen or distended abdomen
• Shows signs of pain (whining, restlessness, hunched posture)
• Refuses to drink water or is severely dehydrated
• Has a body temperature above 104°F (40°C)

? Schedule a vet appointment within 24-48 hours if your dog:

• Pants frequently at night for several consecutive nights
• Shows increased thirst and urination
• Has unexplained weight loss or gain
• Displays changes in appetite
• Seems more anxious or restless than usual
• Has developed a persistent cough
• Shows behavioral changes alongside panting

? Monitor at home and mention at next checkup if your dog:

• Pants occasionally after exercise or excitement
• Settles down within a few minutes
• Has no other concerning symptoms
• Responds well to cooling measures or comfort

Protect your furry friend with our optimal dog health guide ?