Understanding Puppy Sleep
Your puppy’s sleep might be a little mystifying to you. Unlike us humans, puppies have unique sleep patterns, and their behaviors while asleep might seem strange. One such behavior is rapid breathing. You might find your adorable little friend breathing super-fast while sleeping. But is that normal?
Normal Puppy Breathing
Yes, it is normal for puppies to breathe quickly when they sleep. Puppies typically have a more rapid breathing rate than adult dogs. When awake, a puppy might breathe 15 to 40 times in a minute. While sleeping, this rate can increase up to twice as much.
Why Do Puppies Breathe Fast When They Sleep?
Here are some reasons why your furry friend might be panting in their sleep:
-
Dreaming: Just like us humans, dogs dream too! When your puppy is in a deep sleep stage called REM (Rapid Eye Movement), they might start to dream, which can cause an increase in their breathing rate.
-
Growth Phase: Puppies grow incredibly fast, and their bodies need more oxygen for this rapid growth, causing them to breathe faster, even while sleeping.
Distinguishing Normal from Abnormal Breathing
It’s essential to know the difference between regular fast breathing and abnormal, potentially dangerous breathing patterns. Here are some signs to watch out for:
- Your puppy is making noise while breathing, like wheezing or choking.
- Their gums or tongue appear blue or purple, indicating a lack of oxygen.
- They’re struggling to breathe, with their abdomen pumping in and out rapidly or their neck stretched out.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to get your puppy to a vet immediately.
How to Monitor Your Puppy’s Breathing
Monitoring your puppy’s breathing can help you ensure their health. Here’s how to do it:
-
Count their breaths: While they’re asleep, count the number of times their chest rises and falls in a minute. A healthy puppy should breathe 15 to 40 times per minute when awake and up to 80 times per minute when asleep.
-
Note their breathing pattern: A normal breathing pattern for a puppy is to take a few quick breaths, followed by one long breath, then a pause.
-
Keep a sleep diary: Note down your puppy’s sleeping and breathing patterns to monitor any changes.
When to Contact a Vet
While fast breathing is usually normal in puppies, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. If your puppy’s fast breathing is accompanied by any of the following symptoms, it’s time to contact your vet:
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Blue or purple gums
Remember, it’s better to consult your vet if you’re ever unsure.
FAQ
Q: What is a normal puppy breathing rate?
A: A puppy can breathe 15 to 40 times per minute when awake and up to 80 times per minute when asleep.
Q: Is it normal for my puppy to breathe fast while sleeping?
A: Yes, it is normal for puppies to breathe fast when they sleep, especially during the REM stage of sleep or during their rapid growth phase.
Q: When should I be concerned about my puppy’s fast breathing?
A: If your puppy’s fast breathing is accompanied by symptoms like coughing, wheezing, loss of appetite, lethargy, or blue/purple gums, it’s time to contact your vet.
Q: How can I monitor my puppy’s breathing?
A: You can monitor your puppy’s breathing by counting their breaths per minute, noting their breathing pattern, and keeping a sleep diary.
Remember, while it’s common for puppies to breathe fast while sleeping, it’s crucial to keep an eye on their overall health and wellbeing. If you ever have any doubts, don’t hesitate to contact your vet. After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your furry friend’s health.
