Puppy breathing habits

by Theresa Bonnell
(TX)

I just recently bought a maltipoo and I just want to be aware of breathing habits as he tends to breath faster than what I normally have seen. I might be overreacting but just want to make sure.

He is playing fine but when he laid down he was breathing rather fast for what I am used to. Please help.





Hi Theresa
Many new puppy owners get worried about the way their puppies are breathing, so you're not alone!

Generally it's nothing to worry about as puppies can breathe very erratically when young, especially when anxious or stressed (as they often are during the first week or two in a new home). They may breathe very quickly, interspersed with what seem like long 'breaks' between breaths. When they're sleeping this is much more obvious.

They may also twitch, whine, snort and wriggle while sleeping. Again this is normal.

As long as your puppy seems happy and is eating and drinking normally and plays well, then chances are he is just fine. However, it's always a good idea to take a new pup to your own vet soon after bringing him home. That way you can be sure that he's perfectly healthy and is up to date on puppy shots etc.

Hope this helps, best of luck with your new pup.