Is This Normal? Finder · Sleep and energy
My puppy breathes fast while he sleeps. Is that normal?
By Dr. Steve Pelton, DVM
The short answer
Usually, yes. Puppies breathe faster than grown dogs, and their breathing speeds up and slows down while they dream. There's no published normal number for puppies, so learn his: on a calm day, count his breaths for 30 seconds while he's sound asleep, double it, and write it down.
Why it happens
In dreamy sleep the brain is busy, and breathing follows along, speeding up during the exciting parts. A healthy pattern looks easy and settles. Trouble looks like effort.
Which door?
WATCHPuppies often breathe fast in dreamy sleep. Learn his normal while he's calm.
GO NOWThe breathing looks like work, or his gums look blue or gray.
Usually normal
- Quick, uneven breaths with twitching paws or little yips
- Breathing that settles once the dream passes
When to call
Tick what fits and see which door you're at.
Under 16 weeks, a toy breed, or not done with his shots? Move everything one door closer to GO NOW.
GO NOW means: Head to your vet, if they're open and can see him right away, or to the nearest emergency clinic. Call on the way so they're ready for you.
Not sure which door you're at? That's a call. Call your vet.
Worried right now? Check the Three Doors list, from most urgent down, and stop at the first door that fits.
Is this an emergency?General education, not veterinary advice. Your vet's plan for your puppy comes first.