Expert: Wendy Grudin - 10/5/2007

Question
I have a 5 year old Red Heeler/German Shepherd mix and a 3 year old pure Blue Heeler that both pant all day long, unless sleeping.  I am worried that there maybe something wrong, but it's been for at least 3 years that I have noticed this.  My husband says that it is the breed, as Taz's mom, pure Red Heeler, panted all the time also.  Is this true or should I take them in.  They pant in heat and coolness.  We live on the coast of Washington state, so it is muggy all the time.  Then drink water, but not really anymore than my Border/Golden mix.  Taz is the Red/Shepherd mix who is 18" at shoulder and 50 pounds, but not overweight, ribs still felt easily and waist still noticeable.  He is my baby, so I am worried about him.

Answer
Hi Becca, Excessive panting can be caused from obesity, heart disease, lung disease or heartworm, disease(which effects the heart and lungs). Are your dogs on heartworm preventative? Any coughing? Please check them for heartworm if you have not already done so. Unless obese, it is uncommon for a cool dog to pant, but it can be caused from nervousness too.Are they nervous dogs? We just returned from the western side of WA.(Mt. Vernon)....and our dog did not pant excessively. Please let me know if I can be of any more help. Wendy