If your dog starts breathing weirdly, it can be a concerning and confusing issue for any pet owner. While various factors can cause abnormal breathing, recognizing the signs early can help you take timely action and provide your pet with the care it needs. At Little Silver Animal Hospital in Little Silver, NJ, we are here to assist you in understanding what might be causing these symptoms and ensure your pet receives the best care possible. If you notice any changes in your dog’s breathing patterns, please call us at (732) 842-8266 or book an appointment online.
Common Causes of Abnormal Breathing in Dogs
When a dog is breathing weirdly, it can be due to a variety of reasons ranging from temporary minor issues to more serious health concerns. Here are some common causes:
Allergies
Allergies are a frequent cause of respiratory distress in dogs. Allergens can cause your dog’s airways to become inflamed, leading to difficulty breathing. If you notice your dog coughing along with changes in breathing, allergies might be the culprit.
Respiratory Infections
Dogs can catch respiratory infections that affect their breathing. Symptoms may include coughing, wheezing, and general lethargy. Monitoring your dog for additional symptoms can help you identify if an infection is present.
Obstructions
An obstruction in the airway can cause sudden and severe breathing problems. This might include choking on a small object, swelling due to an injury, or a growth in the airway.
Signs to Watch For
It’s important to know what specific breathing abnormalities look like so you can act swiftly:
- Increased Effort and Noise: If your dog seems to be putting more effort into breathing or making unusual noises such as wheezing, it’s time to pay close attention.
- Changes in Gum Color: Healthy gums should be pink. If your dog’s gums are turning blue or white, this is a sign of oxygen deprivation and requires immediate veterinary attention.
- Unusual Breathing Patterns: Pay attention to changes in the rhythm of your dog’s breathing. Pacing, interrupted sleep, or reluctance to lie down can all indicate discomfort associated with breathing issues.
When to See a Vet
If you notice your dog breathing weirdly, or is accompanied by other signs of distress such as excessive panting, apparent struggle to breathe, fatigue, the safest step is to consult with a veterinarian. Behavioral changes like decreased appetite, lethargy, or increased aggression along with abnormal breathing can also indicate the need for attention from a professional. Contact Little Silver Animal Hospital immediately.
Diagnostic Procedures
Understanding the root cause of why your dog is breathing weirdly often involves several diagnostic tests:
Physical Examination
Our veterinarians at Little Silver Animal Hospital will start with a thorough physical examination to assess your dog’s overall health and look for signs of respiratory distress.
Imaging Tests
We may recommend x-rays or an ultrasound to visualize your dog’s lungs and airways, helping us identify any abnormalities that might be causing the breathing issues.
Blood Tests
Blood tests can provide valuable information about your dog’s immune response and detect underlying infections or other systemic issues.
How We Can Help
At Little Silver Animal Hospital, we are committed to providing your dog with the care they need when facing breathing difficulties. Our team of experienced veterinarians uses the latest in veterinary medicine to diagnose and treat your dog. We offer a personalized approach to ensure your pet receives the treatment best suited to their condition. After initial treatment, we provide follow-up care to monitor your dog’s recovery and ensure they are returning to normal health.
Contact Little Silver Animal Hospital
If your dog is breathing weirdly, do not wait to see if it improves on its own. Early diagnosis and treatment can be crucial to their health and comfort. Call us at (732) 842-8266 or book an appointment online at Little Silver Animal Hospital to ensure your dog receives the care it needs. We are here to help every step of the way, offering compassionate and comprehensive care to support your dog’s health and well-being.
