Owners should get a feel for what is normal for their dogs before any health problems develop. Of course, dogs may breathe more rapidly and/or more deeply in response to normal factors such as warm temperatures, exercise, stress and excitement. At rest, healthy dogs should have a respiratory rate of between 20 and 34 breaths per minute, and they should not appear to be putting much effort into breathing. Respiration and Respiratory Rate for Dogsĭifferentiating between a dog who is breathing normally and a dog having trouble breathing is not always as simple as it might seem. It is then pushed out through the nose or mouth through a process referred to as expiration. While oxygen is being transferred to the red blood cells, carbon dioxide is transferred from the red blood cells to the air within the lungs. The red blood cells then carry oxygen to the rest of the body. In the lungs, oxygen is transferred to the red blood cells. Air is pulled in through the nose or mouth and is then carried down into the lungs, through a process referred to as inspiration. The respiratory system has many parts, including the nose, mouth, throat ( pharynx and larynx), windpipe ( trachea) and lungs. How the Dog Respiratory System Worksĭiseases in any part of the respiratory system, and even in other parts of the body, can lead to breathing problems in dogs. If your dog is having a hard time breathing, he should be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Dog breathing problems can affect all breeds and ages and can quickly become life-threatening.

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