Question

What is the normal respiration rate for a dog?

Answer 1

At rest / sleep- 10 to 35 breaths per minute, Average: 24 breaths per minute

Factors influencing variations:

1. Age – puppies may have faster respiratory rate.
2. Breed – based on the structure of nose in different breed
3. Activity – immediately after an activity, there can be faster respiration rate
4. Drugs – certain drugs may cause either increase or decrease in respiration rate
5. Weight – overweight dogs may pant

Prolonged increase in respiratory rate may be an indication of either heat stroke, exhaustion, poisoning, anemia or heart failure. Similarly decrease in respiration rate may be due to shock, allergy or lost lot of blood. Any change in dog’s respiration needs a visit to the veterinarian.