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When your dog struggles to breathe: how to recognise the signs and understand if they belong to a more sensitive breed
When your dog is struggling to breathe
Signs and Sensitive Breeds
When your dog has difficulty breathing
Signs and sensitive breeds
When your dog struggles to breathe
Among the breeds mentioned in this article:
Topics covered:
Respiratory difficulties in dogs can be an important sign that should never be ignored. In some cases, they appear suddenly; in others, they develop more gradually but persistently. Knowing what to look out for and which breeds are more prone can help you care for your pet more confidently, especially during more delicate moments.
How to recognise the signs of laboured breathing
When a dog is having trouble breathing, their body communicates it in different ways. Some signs can be very obvious, while others are more subtle, especially in the early stages. Here are the symptoms to watch out for:
- Fast, laboured or noisy breathing
- Visible difficulty inhaling or exhaling
- Flaring nostrils or unusual posture (e.g. neck stretched forward)
- Dry or persistent cough
- Noises such as wheezing, rattling or stridor
- Bluish colour of gums and mucous membranes
- Tiredness even at rest or during light activity
If you notice one or more of these signs, observe your dog closely and consider whether it's time to intervene or seek veterinary advice.
Toki recommends
If your dog shows sudden signs of respiratory difficulty, having a ready-to-use oxygen kit on hand can make all the difference. It allows you to provide immediate support, either at home or on the way to the vet. It’s not a substitute for medical care, but it can be a helpful aid during more critical moments.
When it's time to act immediately
Rapid breathing after intense play or a walk can be normal. But if your dog seems tired even at rest, adopts an unusual posture to breathe, or if multiple symptoms appear at the same time, it’s best not to wait. In these cases, your vet should always be your first point of contact.
In the meantime, a solution like the PawPrint portable oxygen kit can offer initial relief while you wait for medical guidance.
Among the more sensitive breeds
Some dog breeds are more prone to developing respiratory difficulties due to the shape of their muzzle or genetic factors. In particular:
- Brachycephalic dogs: French Bulldog, English Bulldog, Pug, Boston Terrier
- Small breeds: Cavalier King Charles, Shih Tzu, Chihuahua
- Dogs prone to heart or tracheal conditions: Toy Poodle, Yorkshire Terrier
Being aware of these predispositions helps you recognise the signs earlier and make more informed choices when it comes to preventive or supportive solutions.
How you can help at home
Having a clear action plan is helpful, especially if your dog has already shown episodes of dyspnoea or suffers from a chronic condition. Here’s what you can do:
- Stay calm and make sure the environment is cool and quiet
- Monitor the symptoms and assess how they develop
- If the breathing remains laboured, contact your vet
- If you have a portable oxygen kit, you can start using it by following the instructions
Tailored solutions for your pet
At Toki Pet Shop, you’ll find ready-to-use oxygen kits for dogs of all sizes, designed to provide support during more delicate moments. They are lightweight and easy to use, even on the go.
Would you like to introduce us to your vet?
Ask them to fill in our short contact form. We’ll be able to share all the useful information to help support your pet, together.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a portable oxygen canister last?
Each single-use canister provides up to 15 minutes of pure oxygen. The kits include several canisters, offering up to 90 minutes of support.
Do I need a prescription to buy the kit?
No, the PawPrint kit is designed for home use and does not require a prescription.
My dog has never had any issues – do I still need one?
If they belong to a predisposed breed or have previously shown signs of breathing difficulties, the kit can serve as a useful preventive tool. Discuss it with your vet.
Discover more FAQs on the product page, click here.
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