If you have noticed that your dog is panting and pacing lately, you may wonder what could be causing this behavior. There are many reasons why dogs pace and pant, and the most common include reflux esophagitis, canine cognitive dysfunction, stress and anxiety, pain, and thoracic diseases. In this article, we will discuss these causes in more detail so you and your vet can determine why your dog is panting and pacing.

1. Reflux esophagitis

One of the less commonly known but significant causes of panting and pacing in dogs is reflux esophagitis. This condition occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, the tube connecting the throat to the stomach. This backflow leads to irritation and inflammation of the esophageal lining, causing discomfort and pain in your dog.

When suffering from esophageal acid reflux, dogs may become restless due to the discomfort and pain caused by the inflamed and irritated esophagus. The irritation can be particularly intense after eating or lying down, leading to restlessness, pacing, and panting.

While this can occur in any breed of any age, it is most common in older dogs as their natural protective mechanisms may weaken with age. We can also see reflux esophagitis in dogs after general anesthesia and surgery when stomach acid can move from the stomach to the esophagus.

Apart from panting and pacing, other signs of reflux esophagitis in dogs include drooling, difficulty swallowing, hypersalivation, loss of appetite, and lip licking.

When we suspect reflux esophagitis in dogs, we often recommend two medications. The first is omeprazole which will reduce stomach acid production and the second is metoclopramide which will improve the flow of stomach acid and contents into the intestines, away from the esophagus. Sometimes, we also use sucralfate to help coat and protect the esophagus and aid in healing.

2. Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD)

Canine Cognitive Dysfunction syndrome (CCD) is a condition that affects older, senior dogs. It causes a gradual decline in cognitive function and can lead to progressive changes in the brain.

This neurological disorder affects your dog's memory, learning, perception, and awareness, leading to various behavioral changes.

Dogs with CCD often exhibit increased panting and restlessness. These behaviors are partly due to their declining cognitive abilities. Confusion and disorientation are common in affected dogs, causing them to pace and pant as they struggle to recognize even familiar environments.

Besides panting and pacing, symptoms of CCD include changes in sleep patterns, decreased interaction with family members, altered responses to stimuli, and house soiling. These signs typically develop gradually and can be mistaken for 'normal' aging.

Currently, there is no specific therapy to reverse or cure CCD. All available treatments are primarily supportive, focusing on slowing down the progression of the disease. Please read our article on dementia in dogs for in-depth guidance into potential treatments.

3. Stress and anxiety

Stress and anxiety are significant emotional factors that can lead to noticeable changes in your dog's behavior, including panting and pacing. These emotional states can be triggered by various factors, ranging from environmental changes to separation anxiety, and even reactions to fireworks or thunderstorm events.

When dogs are stressed or anxious, they often display it through physical behaviors. Panting and pacing are common signs, serving as outlets for their nervous energy. Dogs may pace back and forth in an attempt to soothe themselves or attempt to escape the source of their anxiety.

Apart from panting and pacing, other signs of stress and anxiety in dogs include excessive barking or whining, destructive behavior, trembling, and changes in eating habits. It’s important to identify the source of their stress or anxiety, whether it’s loud noises, new environments, or separation from their owners.

If you notice these behaviors in your dog, consider their recent environment and routine for potential stressors. Consulting with a veterinarian or a professional dog behaviorist can provide valuable insights and strategies to help your dog manage their anxiety. This can include environmental modifications, behavior training, and, in some cases, medications.

4. Acute or chronic pain

Acute or chronic pain is another common ailment that will result in restlessness at night and panting in dogs. The list of potential causes is very long and can include injuries, arthritis, dental problems, or internal issues for example.

Panting can be a sign of discomfort or an attempt to relieve pain, while pacing may indicate their inability to find a comfortable position. Unlike humans, dogs cannot verbally express their pain, so these behaviors are important indicators.

In addition to panting and pacing, other signs that your dog might be in pain include limping, decreased activity, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, licking a particular area excessively, and changes in temperament, such as aggression or withdrawal. Sometimes, the signs can be very subtle, especially in chronic conditions like arthritis as your dog has adapted to live with the discomfort.

If you suspect that your dog may be in pain, please see your veterinarian right away so they may diagnose the cause and then start a treatment plan.

5. Thoracic disease (heart/lungs/masses)

Thoracic diseases, including conditions of anything inside the chest such as the heart, lungs, and masses in the chest area, can significantly affect a dog. These conditions often have a direct impact on a dog’s respiratory and circulatory systems, leading to symptoms like panting and pacing.

Dogs with thoracic or respiratory disease may pant more as they struggle to get enough oxygen due to heart or lung problems. This can be especially noticeable after physical activity or during periods of stress. Pacing can be a sign of discomfort or an inability to breathe comfortably, particularly in dogs with heart enlargement or tumors in the chest.

Other than panting and pacing, signs of thoracic diseases can include coughing, lethargy, decreased exercise tolerance, fainting, and pale gums. These symptoms may develop gradually and can sometimes be mistaken for normal aging. However, they often indicate serious underlying conditions that can be life-threatening if left untreated and require an immediate visit to your veterinarian.

Why is my dog panting and restless at night?

Your dog may be panting and restless at night due to discomfort from pain, anxiety, or cognitive dysfunction. It's important to observe any additional symptoms and consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Why is my senior dog pacing and panting?

Pacing and panting in senior dogs can be signs of canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD), pain from conditions like arthritis, or thoracic diseases affecting the heart and lungs. It's best to have your senior dog examined by a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.


In conclusion, if your dog is pacing and panting, it's important to rule out the most common causes which are reflux esophagitis, canine cognitive dysfunction, stress, anxiety, pain, or a thoracic disease. It's always best to consult with your veterinarian if you notice pacing and panting in your dog as they can come up with a diagnosis and from there, a treatment plan.

If you have a dog in Kitchener-Waterloo and would like personalized, expert care, please contact us here at Kingsdale Animal Hospital.