Pomskies, a crossbreed between a Pomeranian and a Siberian Husky, are known for their adorable looks and playful personalities. As a professional breeder for pomsky, I have seen many unusual behaviors in my dogs. One such behavior that is often overlooked by pet owners is unusual panting. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind unusual panting in pomskies and what you can do to help your furry friend.
Normal Panting vs Unusual Panting
Before we dive into the reasons behind unusual panting in pomskies, it’s important to understand the difference between normal panting and unusual panting. Normal panting is when your dog breathes rapidly through their mouth to regulate their body temperature. Dogs don’t sweat like humans do, so they use panting as a way to cool down. This type of panting usually occurs after exercise or when your dog is excited or anxious.
Unusual panting, on the other hand, is when your dog pants excessively without any apparent reason. This could be a sign of an underlying health issue that needs attention.
Health Issues That Cause Unusual Panting in Pomskies
There are several health issues that can cause unusual panting in pomskies. These include:
- Heatstroke: Pomskies are prone to heatstroke due to their thick coat and small size. When they are exposed to high temperatures for extended periods of time, they may start panting excessively as their body tries to regulate its temperature.
- Anxiety and Stress: Pomskies are known for their playful personalities, but they can also be prone to anxiety and stress. When they are anxious or stressed, they may pant excessively as a way to cope with their emotions.
- Pain: If your pomsky is in pain, they may pant excessively as a way to cope with the discomfort. This could be due to an injury or an underlying medical condition.
- Respiratory Issues: If your pomsky is panting excessively and also coughing or wheezing, it could be a sign of respiratory issues such as asthma or bronchitis.
If you notice that your pomsky is panting excessively and also exhibiting other symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or vomiting, it’s important to take them to the vet immediately.
What You Can Do To Help Your Pomsky
If your pomsky is panting excessively but doesn’t seem to have any other health issues, there are several things you can do to help them:
- Cool Them Down: If your pomsky is panting due to heatstroke, it’s important to cool them down immediately. You can do this by placing them in a cool room with air conditioning or a fan, giving them plenty of water to drink, and applying cool water to their paws and belly.
- Create A Calm Environment: If your pomsky is panting due to anxiety or stress, it’s important to create a calm environment for them. This could include providing them with a quiet space where they can relax, playing calming music, or using pheromone sprays to reduce their anxiety.
- Visit The Vet: If your pomsky is panting excessively and you’re not sure why, it’s important to take them to the vet for a check-up. Your vet can rule out any underlying health issues and provide you with advice on how to help your furry friend.
Conclusion
Pomskies are wonderful dogs that bring joy and happiness to our lives. However, it’s important to be aware of unusual panting in these dogs as it could be a sign of an underlying health issue. By understanding the difference between normal panting and unusual panting, knowing the health issues that can cause unusual panting, and taking steps to help your pomsky, you can ensure that they stay healthy and happy for years to come.