It occurs when the adrenal gland produces more cortisol than usual. Eclampsia is a rare cause of excessive panting in older dogs Excessive panting in older dogs can also be a result of eclampsia. But if your dog is panting excessively in conditions when he is relaxed and at a comfortable temperature, it may be time to seek guidance from a veterinarian, who can help you identify the underlying cause of this behavior. If your older dog is a coach potato, try to design a regular exercise regime that is suitable for his age and health condition. View Comments. panting; excessive swallowing; drooling ; If you’re concerned about your dog showing signs of tummy upset, contact your veterinarian. The younger and more active a dog is, the more likely it is that it will have intermittent increases in thirst and urination. However, some dogs (Boston terriers and pugs) are prone to breathing heavily due to their short snouts. Your senior dog might be panting more than younger dogs because of this. (Maybe he is just thirsty) Twelve years old is pretty old for a dog, but not in the old as dirt phase for dogs (Thats like 14 - 16). This is almost exclusive to older dogs and it may be too late by the time your beloved pet starts to excessively pant as an effect of heart failure. However, if it is happening daily, it could be a symptom of a serious illness or disease. Frequent urination, constant hunger and an unquenchable thirst add to their restlessness. (Maybe he is just thirsty) Twelve years old is pretty old for a dog, but not in the old as dirt phase for dogs (Thats like 14 - 16). On top of age, if that older dog (or any dog) has arthritis, pain or is obese, then panting can increase. Cushing’s diseases occurs more often in dogs 9 years and older. Heat stroke is more likely to cause to affect older dogs causing excessive panting which will continue even after your dog is relaxed or resting. A dog who has a thick coat suffer very often the effects of heat. One of the earliest and most common symptoms of this disease is excessive and inappropriate panting. Panting isn't normally a reason for concern, but if your dog is panting excessively, it could be a possible sign of heat exhaustion or overexercise. All dogs pant, especially when it's hot outside. Drooling is also a sign of pain due to cancer in canines. Read on to learn about the symptoms of the most concerning diseases that can affect your older dog and potentially shorten its lifespan. However, you should not become complacent. See why your dog may be breathing hard and how you can help. Usually, “Dogs take ten to thirty breaths a minute depending on their size. Blood pressure rises, causing loss of muscle and bone mass. If you have an older dog, or you suspect your dog may be having heart troubles, get her to the vet immediately, if not sooner. This is perhaps the most common cause of excessive panting in dogs. Anxious vocalizing is usually a plaintive howl or excessive whining. Warmer weather will cause excessive panting. Nonetheless, there are times when excessive panting in older dogs is not normal like: You need to be careful of excessive panting in older dogs. If your dog no longer wants to exercise and seems generally lethargic. If your dog seems to be panting heavily due to anxiety, fear, excitement, or stress, try to distant your dog from source of the stimulation, if possible. In more serious cases, the dog may seem disoriented and even lose some of his sense of coordination. While this can be a common symptom of aging, it can also be a symptom of serious diseases.