Dogs on steroid medications may pant more than usual, leaving dog owners concerned about their comfort and health.
Panting combined with trembling or restlessness can signal side effects or complications from steroid use.
We outline the common causes of panting in dogs on steroids, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Panting and Steroids — Why It Happens
Panting in dogs taking steroids is common and can result from multiple factors. Steroids, like prednisone, can increase metabolism, stimulate the nervous system, and affect fluid balance, all of which contribute to heavier breathing. Dogs may also shake or appear restless due to discomfort, digestive upset, or underlying conditions aggravated by steroid therapy.
Age, breed, preexisting medical conditions, and timing of medication can influence the severity of panting, making some dogs more susceptible than others.
Dog Panting and Steroids: Common Causes
Drug-Induced Anxiety and Restlessness
Steroids act as stimulants in the body, often producing a “wired” or restless feeling in dogs. Similar to how caffeine affects humans, steroids can overstimulate a dog’s nervous system.
Dogs may pant excessively even in cool environments. Shaking or trembling can occur when the dog tries to relax, and nighttime restlessness is common, often making it difficult for them to settle.
While usually temporary, this side effect can persist if the medication is taken later in the day. Adjusting the dosage timing or giving the steroid in the morning may help ease these symptoms.
Read more: Dog Panting and Prednisone (Why it happens and what to watch for)
Metabolic Heat Production
Corticosteroids increase the metabolic rate, which naturally generates more body heat. Dogs cannot sweat efficiently, so panting becomes the primary way to release excess heat.
When combined with anxiety, the extra heat can trigger trembling. Older dogs, overweight pets, and flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs and
Pugs are especially vulnerable, as their bodies are less capable of regulating temperature. Even mild warmth in a room can trigger heavy panting in these dogs.
Muscle Weakness and Fatigue
Long-term steroid therapy can lead to muscle wasting, making it harder for dogs to support their own weight. Trembling is often observed when they stand up after resting or walk short distances.
Panting may occur from minor exertion due to muscle fatigue. Dogs with chronic steroid use may show thinning of the muscles around the hind legs, shoulders, or along the spine.
This combination of weakness and increased respiration can appear alarming to owners.
Electrolyte Imbalance
Steroids can affect sodium, potassium, and other electrolytes critical for nerve and muscle function.
Low potassium levels, in particular, can cause weakness, trembling, or muscle spasms.
Dogs on high-dose or long-term steroid regimens are more likely to develop these imbalances. Blood tests may be required to monitor electrolyte levels if steroid use is ongoing.
5. Excessive Thirst and Urination
Polyuria (increased urination) and polydipsia (increased thirst) are common side effects of steroids. Frequent bathroom trips can lead to panting, pacing, and restlessness, particularly at night.
Dehydration can also develop if water intake does not keep up with fluid loss. Ensuring the dog has easy access to fresh water and more frequent bathroom breaks can help alleviate stress and reduce panting.
Digestive Discomfort
Steroids can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, causing nausea, ulcers, or abdominal pain. Panting and shaking are often signs of discomfort when the dog is unable to vocalize distress.
Other warning signs include vomiting, black or tarry stools, and loss of appetite. These issues can become serious if left untreated, so veterinary consultation is important if symptoms persist or worsen.
Pain or Underlying Disease Exacerbation
Sometimes, panting and shaking are not direct side effects of steroids but indications that an underlying health condition has worsened. Steroids can mask or complicate certain diseases:
Heart disease – Fluid retention may increase breathing difficulty.
Kidney disease – Steroids place extra strain on kidney function.
Diabetes – Corticosteroids can raise blood sugar and potentially trigger steroid-induced diabetes.
Monitoring your dog’s response to steroids and consulting a vet for any changes in condition is critical, particularly in dogs with preexisting medical issues.
Why It’s More Common at Night
Dog owners often notice panting and shaking more at night for several reasons. A quiet environment makes symptoms more noticeable, and peak steroid activity may occur in the evening if doses are given later in the day.
Nighttime heat buildup in the house and increased anxiety as the dog tries to rest can also amplify panting and trembling.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Panting and on Steroids
If your dog is panting while taking steroids, there are several steps you can take at home to make them more comfortable.
Ensure your dog has easy access to water to prevent dehydration. Monitor for signs of digestive upset and avoid feeding rich or fatty foods that could worsen stomach irritation.
Create a cool, quiet environment at night to help reduce anxiety and panting. Gentle reassurance and minimal handling during bouts of restlessness can also help.
For dogs on long-term steroid therapy, schedule regular vet check-ups to monitor electrolyte levels, kidney function, and overall health.
If panting is accompanied by vomiting, lethargy, or severe trembling, it’s best to contact your veterinarian promptly rather than attempting to manage it solely at home.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Immediate veterinary attention is warranted if your dog shows any of the following signs while on steroids:
Severe panting that does not ease with rest
Continuous shaking or tremors
Vomiting, especially with blood or bile
Black or tarry stools
Signs of dehydration (sunken eyes, dry gums)
Collapse or extreme weakness
Any sudden changes in behavior or appetite
These symptoms could indicate a serious reaction to steroids or an exacerbation of an underlying condition that requires urgent care.
Read more: Dog Panting and Medication (Why it happens and what to watch for)
Key Takeaway
Panting in dogs on steroids is common, but it can be caused by a variety of factors ranging from mild drug-induced restlessness to serious health complications.
Understanding the causes—including anxiety, heat production, muscle weakness, electrolyte imbalance, digestive discomfort, and underlying disease—can help owners respond appropriately.
Monitoring your dog, providing supportive care at home, and seeking veterinary guidance when red-flag symptoms appear will ensure your dog stays as comfortable and safe as possible during steroid therapy.