Why Do Great Pyrenees Pant

Panting in dogs is typically normal behavior for a dog. Yet, it seems the Great Pyrenees actually pants excessively at times. Is this normal behavior for this dog breed? What is it that makes them pant so much? And should you be concerned with your Great Pyrenees panting? In case you didn't know, panting is when a dog has moderate or rapid breathing, usually where their tongue may be hanging out. This behavior helps a dog to lower body temperature and to get oxygen into a puppy’s bloodstream. With that being said, let us explore why Great Pyrenees pant in a bit more detail.

First, let’s not confuse panting with labored breathing. If your dog was experiencing labored breathing, you would see signs of strained respiration which would be followed by distress noises such as crying, whining, barking or whistling noises. If you feel it is labored breathing, consult your vet as soon as possible as this could be a serious medical issue. The Great Pyrenees are large dogs with thick coats. These dogs actually can get hot quite easily, even in a 68 degree home. However, you will see this overly hot behavior a lot more in the summer months. Being hot may lead to heavy panting. Signs that your Great Pyrenees is hot may include laying on the cold floor, near the air conditioner or fan or rolling in the cool dirt. Another reason why your Great Pyrenees may pant excessively is if they are overweight, which can cause them to be hot. 

Dogs also pant when they are in heat. So, if your dog is not neutered and exhibiting panting only at certain times, this may be something to look into. Typically, pacing and seeming anxious goes hand in hand with panting when a dog is in heat. Your vet may be able to explain their cycles better and give you recommendations to help your dog if this is the case. Great Pyrenees pant for other reason too such as stress, pain, or when they are afraid. There can be health or medical issues involved as well. Panting excessively could be a sign of neurological problems, heart problems, or a respiratory disorder. If your dog is excessively panting and you can’t seem to find the reason behind it, consult your vet. It is always better to get medical advice when you really don’t know what is going on. Your vet will ease any fears you have and give you viable solutions. 

If your dog is hot, there are several things you can do such as turn on your air conditioning and offer him or her some cool water to drink. It does not hurt to put an ice cube or two in their water dish either. The Great Pyrenees love to lay in cool areas as well, so if you have a nice cool spot in your home set aside for your dog, he will love you for that. 

Another way to keep your pup cool is with a water spritzer bottle. Although this sounds funny, dogs love to get wet when they are hot and trying to cool down. If for any reason you think that your Great Pyrenees is experiencing a serious medical condition such as heart or respiratory issues that may be causing this excessive panting, it is important to talk to your vet or even take them into the local pet hospital for an examination. Your dog’s health is very important, so do not ignore the signs of distress. A vet can also help reassure you of any worries you may have. So you should definitely consult a professional if you are concerned.

Panting can also be a sign of a fever, pain, or a viral infection. If you come across any other symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, or another signs that your puppy is not well, bring him or her to the vet. Most of the time, the vet can easily remedy this with antibiotics. However, you can not treat an illness if you do not know what it is. So if your puppy is panting heavily out of the blue, be on the lookout for other symptoms that may lead to the problem. You will be glad you took the time to get to the bottom of the issue.

All dogs pant, while some breeds are just more prone to panting more frequently. Typically this is nothing to worry about, however, if you can not figure out the reason your dog is panting, you should always get some medical advice from your vet. You and your pet will be glad you looked into the issue!