Dog Breathing Fast While Sleeping – Should I Be Worried?

Seeing your dog breathe quickly while they’re fast asleep can be alarming. Is it just a dream or something more serious?

In this article, we’ll explore what’s normal, what’s not, and when you should speak to a vet. Fast breathing may be harmless — but in some cases, it can indicate pain, anxiety, or even underlying heart or lung conditions.

What’s Considered Normal Breathing While Sleeping?

The normal respiratory rate for dogs at rest is:

• 10–35 breaths per minute
• Puppies may breathe up to 40–50 breaths per minute during sleep or play

Dogs dream just like humans. During REM sleep, their breathing may become irregular or rapid.

✅ This is normal — and often comes with:

• Twitching legs
• Whimpering or “running” movements
• Eye flickers under the lids

If your dog quickly returns to a normal breathing pattern, there’s likely nothing to worry about.

When Is Fast Breathing a Concern?

Breathing rapidly while sleeping might signal an issue if it's accompanied by other symptoms such as:

• 🔵 Bluish gums or tongue – a possible sign of oxygen deprivation
• 😟 Laboured or noisy breathing – wheezing, gagging, or straining
• 🌡️ Fever or overheating – particularly in brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs
• 😰 Ongoing anxiety or restlessness
• 😴 Lethargy when awake, or panting even at rest

These may point to issues like:

• Pain (e.g., after surgery or injury)
• Lung disease or heart failure
• Heatstroke or fever
• Parasites such as heartworm

👉 If you're also seeing vomiting, diarrhoea, or unusual poop, such as dog poop with mucus, get a vet involved quickly.

Fast Breathing in Puppies During Sleep

Puppies often breathe faster than adult dogs, especially when they’re:

• Growing rapidly
• In REM sleep
• Overstimulated from play

It’s generally harmless unless it’s combined with weakness, coughing, or nasal discharge.

Breed Factors – Some Dogs Are More Prone

Certain breeds are more likely to have sleep-related breathing changes:

• 🐶 Flat-faced breeds (e.g. French Bulldogs, Pugs)
• 🐾 Small or toy breeds like Chihuahuas
• 🐕‍🦺 Working breeds after exercise

If your Australian Shepherd or Golden Retriever breathes fast in their sleep after a big day, this may be normal post-activity recovery — but if it persists, consult a vet.

Related Health Issues to Rule Out

Breathing rapidly during sleep can be a symptom of:

• Heart disease
• Lung infections like pneumonia
• Allergic reactions (e.g., to food or plants)
• Ingestion of toxins — see our guide on dog ate weed
• Pain or injury

What You Can Do at Home

If your dog is breathing fast but seems otherwise well, try the following:

• ✅ Count breaths per minute while they’re sleeping
• ✅ Check the room temperature — move them to a cooler area
• ✅ Touch their paw pads — hot pads may indicate fever
• ✅ Gently wake them — do they return to normal breathing?

When to Speak to a Vet

Speak to a vet immediately if:

• Fast breathing lasts more than 10–15 minutes after waking
• Gums are blue, purple, or pale
• There’s coughing, nasal discharge, or obvious pain
• Your dog has recently eaten something they shouldn’t have

💬 You can book a $49 online video consultation with a licensed Australian vet in just minutes via Dial A Vet. No wait, no stress.

How an Online Vet Can Help

Your vet may ask:

• Is your dog vaccinated?
• Any exposure to toxins or other animals?
• Have they eaten recently? Vomiting?
• Does your dog have dog anxiety?

They can then:

• Rule out emergencies
• Recommend home care
• Direct you to a clinic if necessary
• Suggest safe over-the-counter meds

Related Reading for Pet Owners

• Dog Ear Infection
• Can dogs eat cinnamon?
• Why is my dog licking his bum?
• Ringworm in dogs

Final Thoughts: Stay Alert, Stay Calm

Not all fast breathing is dangerous, but it’s always best to err on the side of caution — especially when it comes to your furry mate. If your instincts say something’s off, trust them.

🩺 Book a vet consultation now — just $49, 7 days a week.

Citations:

1. Australian Veterinary Association. (2023). Respiratory Rate in Dogs.
2. VetCompass Australia. (2024). Common Causes of Panting in Dogs.
3. RSPCA Australia. (2023). Dog Health and Breathing Signs.

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