Hey, quick question: has anyone else's dog ever started hyperventilating for no reason? Bella started doing it last night on the couch, and I'm not sure if this is a thing or if I should be worried. Any thoughts?

Hey there! No worries, I'm here to help. It's not uncommon for dogs to have episodes where they breathe fast or seem to hyperventilate, but it's good to take note of what might be causing it.

Here's what you can watch for:

• Is Bella showing any other signs like coughing, wheezing, or acting distressed?
• Does she seem to be in pain, or is she more lethargic than usual?
• Check if her gums are a normal pink color or if they're pale, bluish, or very red.
• Look around to see if there might be something stressful nearby or any unusual foods she might have gotten into.

If she's just breathing fast but seems otherwise fine and it resolves quickly, you can wait and just monitor her. However, if:

• She's struggling to breathe, seems very unwell, or if this continues for a long time, it's an emergency.
• She has ingested anything potentially toxic (like chocolate, paracetamol, or grapes), you should seek immediate veterinary help.

At home, make sure Bella is calm and in a comfortable, quiet space. You can gently talk to her and try to reassure her. Ensure she's not overheated and has access to water.

If Bella continues to hyperventilate or you notice worsening symptoms like those mentioned above, call your vet straight away. Better safe than sorry!

If you're unsure or your pet’s symptoms worsen, it's best to book a call with a vet on Dial A Vet for professional advice.