If your dog is experiencing diarrhea and shortness of breath, it’s important to understand that these symptoms are often interconnected and can indicate underlying health issues.
Both of these symptoms—diarrhea and difficulty breathing—can be caused by a range of factors, some of which may be more serious than others.
We outline the potential causes of dog diarrhea and shortness of breath, as well as what to do if your dog is experiencing these concerning symptoms.
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Understanding Dog Diarrhea and Shortness of Breath
Dog diarrhea and shortness of breath can occur together due to various underlying health issues. These symptoms may result from gastrointestinal infections like viruses, bacteria, or parasites that cause diarrhea and dehydration, which in turn can lead to panting or difficulty breathing.
Heart disease, such as congestive heart failure or heartworm, may also contribute to both symptoms by causing fluid buildup in the lungs, impairing breathing.
Also, poisoning, respiratory infections, or anxiety can cause both gastrointestinal distress and respiratory issues.
Causes of Dog Diarrhea and Shortness of Breath
1. Gastrointestinal Infections
Gastrointestinal infections are one of the most frequent causes of diarrhea in dogs.
These infections can be viral (e.g., parvovirus), bacterial (e.g., salmonella), or parasitic (e.g., giardia).
In addition to causing diarrhea, these infections may lead to dehydration, which can trigger excessive panting or difficulty breathing as the body works to regulate fluid balance.
Infections can cause inflammation and irritation of the stomach and intestines, leading to diarrhea.
Additionally, the body’s immune response to these infections often results in fever, which can make a dog pant more than usual, leading to shortness of breath.
Severe infections can also affect the lungs or heart, contributing further to breathing difficulties.
Related: Dog diarrhea and twitching (Explained)
2. Heart Disease
Heart disease is a common cause of shortness of breath in dogs, especially older pets.
Conditions such as congestive heart failure or heartworm disease can result in fluid buildup in the lungs, leading to difficulty breathing.
When combined with diarrhea, these conditions can be more concerning.
Heart disease can cause a dog’s body to become stressed, which may worsen gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea.
Additionally, the inability to properly circulate blood can result in reduced oxygen supply, causing the dog to breathe more heavily or even gasp for air.
3. Toxins or Poisoning
Exposure to certain toxins or poisonous substances can cause both diarrhea and shortness of breath in dogs.
Common toxins, such as household cleaners, certain plants, and human medications, can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, causing diarrhea.
At the same time, some toxins can affect the respiratory system, leading to difficulty breathing.
For example, ingesting antifreeze, a common household toxin, can cause gastrointestinal distress (diarrhea) as well as respiratory depression.
Other harmful substances like rodenticides or pesticides can also cause similar symptoms by disrupting the dog’s internal systems.
If you suspect that your dog has ingested a toxic substance, it’s critical to seek immediate veterinary care.
Some poisons may cause rapid deterioration of your dog’s health and require urgent intervention.
Related: Dog Diarrhea and stress (Explained)
4. Respiratory Infections
Respiratory infections such as kennel cough, pneumonia, or canine influenza can result in both diarrhea and shortness of breath.
Respiratory infections can irritate the upper respiratory tract, causing coughing, nasal discharge, and difficulty breathing.
In severe cases, these infections can progress to pneumonia, which results in fluid buildup in the lungs, leading to labored breathing.
Some respiratory infections, such as kennel cough, may also be accompanied by gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhea, as the body’s immune response affects multiple systems.
5. Anxiety and Stress
Stress and anxiety can be significant contributors to gastrointestinal issues in dogs, including diarrhea.
At the same time, anxiety can cause rapid or heavy breathing, contributing to shortness of breath.
For instance, a dog that is stressed out may experience nervous panting or shallow breathing.
If the stress is severe, the body’s response may include gastrointestinal upset, leading to diarrhea.
Common stress triggers for dogs include environmental changes, new routines, or separation anxiety.
It’s essential to consider your dog’s emotional state when diagnosing the cause of both diarrhea and breathing difficulties.
If the symptoms appear after a stressful event, it might be worth considering whether anxiety is playing a role.
Related: Dog Diarrhea and Vomiting But Acting Normal (Explained)
6. Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas, is another condition that can cause both diarrhea and shortness of breath in dogs.
This condition often leads to severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea.
The discomfort from pancreatitis may cause rapid or shallow breathing, especially if the dog is in pain.
Pancreatitis is typically triggered by a high-fat diet or eating something toxic.
In some cases, pancreatitis can lead to complications such as fluid buildup in the lungs, contributing to breathing difficulties.
7. Lung Disease or Pneumonia
Lung disease or pneumonia can cause shortness of breath due to fluid or inflammation in the lungs.
Pneumonia, in particular, can result from aspiration (inhaling food or liquid into the lungs), which may also trigger gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea.
Inflammation in the lungs can impair a dog’s ability to breathe properly, leading to rapid panting, coughing, or labored breathing.
In some cases, the body’s response to pneumonia can cause dehydration, which might exacerbate diarrhea.
Therefore, if your dog is experiencing both symptoms, pneumonia or another lung issue should be considered as a potential cause.
What to Do If Your Dog Has Diarrhea and Shortness of Breath
If your dog is showing signs of both diarrhea and shortness of breath, it’s important to act quickly to determine the underlying cause and provide the appropriate care.
Here’s what to do:
Monitor Your Dog’s Symptoms: Keep a close eye on your dog’s behavior. Pay attention to any changes in their appetite, energy levels, and general demeanor. Are they lethargic or acting unusually tired? Are they showing signs of pain, such as whining or restlessness? Is the diarrhea severe or bloody? If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to seek veterinary help.
Hydration: Diarrhea can cause your dog to become dehydrated, which can worsen shortness of breath. Offer your dog fresh water regularly, but be mindful not to allow them to drink too quickly, as this may cause further upset to their digestive system.
Seek Immediate Veterinary Care: If your dog’s shortness of breath is severe or persistent, or if the diarrhea is accompanied by vomiting, blood, or other alarming symptoms, you should take them to the veterinarian immediately. The veterinarian can perform diagnostic tests, including blood work, X-rays, and stool analysis, to determine the root cause of the symptoms.
Follow Treatment Plans: Once a diagnosis is made, follow the vet’s treatment plan closely. This may involve medication, dietary changes, or other interventions to address both the diarrhea and shortness of breath.
Key Takeaway
Dog diarrhea and shortness of breath can be caused by various health issues, ranging from gastrointestinal infections to heart disease.
When these symptoms occur together, it’s important to seek prompt veterinary care to identify the cause and initiate the appropriate treatment.
By monitoring your dog closely, providing hydration, and seeking professional help when necessary, you can help ensure that your dog’s health and well-being are properly addressed.
Always consult your veterinarian if you are unsure about your dog’s condition, especially if they are showing signs of distress or their symptoms persist.
Early intervention can make a significant difference in your dog’s recovery.