Dog panting and biting can be worrying for any pet owner, especially when it happens suddenly or frequently. These behaviors may point to physical discomfort or an underlying medical issue that needs attention.
We outline the common reasons for a dog panting and biting itself, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Table of Contents
Dog Panting and Biting — Why It Happens
Dog panting and biting often occur together because your dog is experiencing discomfort, stress, or irritation. This combination can stem from allergies, pain, anxiety, heat, or certain illnesses.
While panting helps regulate temperature or indicate stress, biting can be a sign of itchiness, irritation, or frustration.
Dog Panting and Biting: Common Causes
Allergies
Allergies can cause skin irritation, leading your dog to bite, lick, or chew at certain areas.
This constant irritation can cause frustration and stress, which may lead to panting.
Environmental triggers like pollen, dust mites, or mold are common culprits. Food allergies can also contribute to itchy skin and discomfort.
Allergic reactions may cause restlessness, and if left untreated, the constant biting can lead to infections.
Read more: Dog Panting and Biting Tail (Here’s why)
Fleas or Parasites
Fleas, mites, and other parasites can cause intense itching. As your dog bites at the itchy areas, they may pant from the discomfort and agitation.
Parasite infestations are more than a nuisance—they can cause skin infections, allergic reactions, and anemia in severe cases.
Quick treatment and prevention are essential to stop both the panting and biting behaviors.
Pain or Injury
If your dog has an injury or underlying pain, they may bite at the affected area in an attempt to soothe themselves.
Pain can also cause panting as your dog struggles to cope with the discomfort.
Joint pain, sprains, or even internal injuries could be the cause. This is especially important to consider if the panting and biting started suddenly or if your dog is limping, whining, or avoiding movement.
Anxiety or Stress
Dogs experiencing anxiety may pant heavily and bite at themselves out of nervous energy or as a coping mechanism. Separation anxiety, loud noises, or sudden changes in their environment can trigger these behaviors.
Chronic stress can impact your dog’s overall health and lead to destructive habits, so addressing the root cause is key.
Overheating or Heatstroke
Panting is a primary way dogs cool themselves down. If they are overheated, they may also display restless or frantic behavior, including biting at themselves or their surroundings.
Overheating can escalate to heatstroke quickly, which is life-threatening. Immediate cooling measures and veterinary care are essential if you suspect heatstroke.
Skin Infections
Bacterial or fungal skin infections can cause intense itching, leading to biting and licking.
The irritation from these infections can also make your dog restless and pant more than usual.
Untreated infections can spread and become more serious, so prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Panting and Biting
If your dog is panting and biting, first try to identify any obvious cause such as fleas, heat, or visible injury.
Keep your dog cool and comfortable, and check for signs of parasites or irritated skin.
Bathing your dog with a gentle, vet-approved shampoo can help with mild skin irritation.
For anxiety, providing a calm environment, familiar objects, and gentle reassurance can ease symptoms. Avoid punishing the behavior—instead, focus on identifying and removing the cause.
Ensure your dog is hydrated, and consider allergy-friendly bedding and cleaning routines if environmental triggers are suspected.
If the cause is unclear or symptoms persist, schedule a veterinary check-up.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Seek veterinary care immediately if your dog’s panting is excessive, their gums are pale or blue, or if they appear weak or disoriented. Heatstroke, severe allergic reactions, and injuries require urgent attention.
If your dog is biting themselves to the point of breaking the skin, veterinary help is necessary to prevent infection.
Persistent or worsening symptoms, especially if combined with loss of appetite, vomiting, or lethargy, should also be evaluated.
Read more: Dog panting excessively (Here’s why)
Key Takeaway
Panting and biting in dogs are often signs that something is wrong, whether it’s discomfort, stress, pain, or illness. By paying attention to these behaviors and addressing them early, you can help your dog feel better and prevent more serious health problems.
Your attentiveness and quick action can make all the difference in your dog’s comfort and well-being.