If your senior dog has diarrhea and is panting, it can be a concerning sign for dog owners.
While occasional diarrhea or panting alone can be relatively normal, when these symptoms appear together—especially in older dogs—it may signal a more serious issue.
Aging dogs are more prone to health complications, so recognizing these signs early and understanding the possible causes is key to keeping your senior dog safe and comfortable.
Senior Dog Diarrhea and Panting: Why It Happens
Senior dog diarrhea and panting often occur together due to underlying health issues like gastrointestinal infections, organ dysfunction, or chronic diseases common in aging dogs.
As dogs grow older, their immune and digestive systems weaken, making them more susceptible to inflammation, food sensitivities, and systemic illnesses. Panting may result from abdominal discomfort, dehydration, or internal stress caused by diarrhea.
In some cases, conditions like kidney disease, liver issues, or even canine cognitive dysfunction may trigger both symptoms.
This combination should not be ignored, as it may signal a serious health problem requiring veterinary attention.
Common Causes of Senior Dog Diarrhea and Panting
1. Pain or Discomfort
Pain is one of the most common reasons your older dog may be panting and have diarrhea.
Conditions such as arthritis, spinal issues, or abdominal pain from gastrointestinal upset can cause your senior dog to pant excessively.
Pain increases stress hormones.
Stress affects digestion, leading to diarrhea in older dogs.
Common sources of pain include gastrointestinal cramping, pancreatitis, or internal organ distress.
Related: Old dog diarrhea and not eating (Here’s why)
2. Heatstroke or Overheating
Older dogs are more sensitive to temperature changes. If your senior dog has been outside in the heat and is panting and has diarrhea, they may be experiencing heatstroke.
Heat can stress the gastrointestinal system, leading to diarrhea.
Panting is the dog’s attempt to cool themselves.
Other signs include drooling, lethargy, red gums, or collapse.
3. Infections and Inflammation
Gastrointestinal infections, whether from bacteria, viruses, or parasites, can cause diarrhea in senior dogs, often accompanied by panting due to discomfort or fever.
Older dogs may have weakened immune systems, making them more susceptible.
Panting can be a response to fever or nausea.
Common culprits include salmonella, E. coli, or parvovirus (less common in vaccinated dogs).
4. Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis in older dogs is a painful condition that often results in vomiting, diarrhea, and rapid, heavy panting.
It typically results from high-fat foods, medications, or underlying health conditions.
Senior dogs may be more prone due to age-related pancreatic function decline.
5. Heart Disease
In elderly dogs, heart issues may cause panting due to difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity.
Diarrhea can appear secondarily, either from medication side effects or decreased blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract.
Panting can also indicate reduced oxygen levels.
Diarrhea may worsen with fluid shifts or stress on the body.
6. Cushing’s Disease
Cushing’s disease, or hyperadrenocorticism, is a common endocrine disorder in senior dogs.
It’s caused by excess cortisol production and is characterized by:
Excessive panting in older dogs.
Increased appetite, water consumption, and diarrhea.
Thinning skin, a pot-bellied appearance, and hair loss.
7. Liver or Kidney Disease
As dogs age, liver or kidney function can decline. This can lead to:
Diarrhea in older dogs due to toxin buildup or improper digestion.
Panting from discomfort or nausea.
Bad breath, vomiting, and weight loss may also appear.
8. Anxiety or Cognitive Dysfunction
Just like people, older dogs can experience cognitive decline or increased anxiety. Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS) may manifest as:
Restlessness, confusion, and panting.
Diarrhea due to anxiety or disrupted routines.
Accidents in the house or changes in appetite.
9. Side Effects of Medication
Many older dogs are on medications for chronic issues such as arthritis, heart disease, or seizures.
Some medications can cause gastrointestinal upset or dehydration, leading to:
Diarrhea in senior dogs.
Panting as a response to side effects like nausea or restlessness.
NSAIDs, steroids, and diuretics are common culprits.
10. Toxins or Poisoning
Older dogs may ingest something harmful due to decreased senses or curiosity.
Toxins can trigger rapid gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms:
Severe diarrhea and excessive panting.
Vomiting, tremors, or seizures may also follow.
Examples include chocolate, xylitol, grapes, or certain plants and household cleaners.
Related: Old dog diarrhea and peeing a lot (Here’s why)
What To Do If Your Senior Dog Has Diarrhea and Is Panting
If your senior dog is panting and has diarrhea, take action quickly—especially if these symptoms come on suddenly or seem severe. Here’s what to do:
Assess for Other Symptoms
Is there vomiting?
Is your dog lethargic or disoriented?
Do they seem in pain or have a bloated belly?
Is there blood in the stool?
These can all indicate a more urgent problem.
Check Their Environment
Has your dog been exposed to heat or stress?
Have you recently changed their diet or medication?
Could they have gotten into something toxic?
Try to identify any recent changes that may have triggered the symptoms.
Keep Your Dog Hydrated
Offer small amounts of water frequently.
Avoid forcing water, but encourage sips.
Do not offer food for 12 hours if vomiting accompanies diarrhea, unless advised otherwise.
Contact Your Veterinarian
Diarrhea and panting, especially in an older dog, should not be ignored.
Your vet may recommend blood work, fecal testing, x-rays, or ultrasound to determine the cause.
Bring a stool sample and a list of medications or food changes.
When to Seek Immediate Vet Help
You should seek urgent veterinary care if your senior dog is:
Panting heavily and persistently
Having bloody or tarry diarrhea
Vomiting repeatedly
Showing signs of pain or collapse
Displaying confusion or disorientation
Has had symptoms for more than 24 hours
Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for older dogs with diarrhea and panting, as they may dehydrate quickly or have underlying conditions that worsen without care.
Preventing Diarrhea and Panting in Senior Dogs
Prevention starts with good habits and regular care:
Feed a consistent, high-quality diet suitable for senior dogs.
Administer medications with caution and monitor for side effects.
Avoid overheating, especially during warmer seasons.
Provide a calm, low-stress environment.
Schedule regular vet checkups, including blood panels and organ function screening.
Keep harmful substances and plants out of reach.
Maintaining a stable, senior-friendly lifestyle can reduce episodes of diarrhea and panting in older dogs significantly.
Key Takeaway
Senior dog diarrhea and panting is not something to take lightly.
While occasional upset is normal, the combination of these two symptoms—especially in an aging pet—may indicate a deeper issue such as pain, illness, or organ dysfunction.
Understanding the possible causes of diarrhea and panting in older dogs helps you recognize when to observe and when to act.
Whether it’s a mild gastrointestinal issue or a more serious condition like pancreatitis or kidney disease, early detection and professional care can make all the difference in your senior dog’s quality of life.
When in doubt, always consult your veterinarian. Your furry senior deserves the best comfort and care in their golden years.