Exercise Intolerance
Brandy, my
6 yr old 1/2 shepard 1/2 golden retreiver has a problem. After playing
for about 10 minutes she starts breathing heavy. I take her in and it
takes up to 6 hours to start breathing normally. When she is breathing
heavy her tongue hangs out but she doesn't drool. I've asked my
vet for the last 2 years but he tells me that her heart is fine fine. She
has allergies (grass, trees, etc.)and I give her shots. But her breathing
heavy is year round. I'm afraid that her heart is getting stressed.
Have you seen this problem before?
Exercise intolerance as described is usually related to heart disease, lung disease or excessive exercise relative to the dog's physical condition.
Heart disease may take more than just a quick listen with the stethoscope to diagnose. Radiographs and electrocardiograms are usually necessary to fully evaluate the heart. You may request additional testing on your next visit from your vet.
Lung disease can come from damage from disease, airway blockages, collapsed lungs, emphysema, bronchitis and other ailments. Radiographys, auscultation and blood panels are helpful in evaluating the lung's condition.
Overweight dogs, or dogs not used to exercise that are suddently called upon to exercise heavily, may lack the stamina of younger and better fit dogs. If this is the case, gradually increasing the daily exercise regimin will help your dog become more fit. Do not do this until you have ruled out heart and lung disease.
Other conditions such as anemia, cancers, allergies, circulatory shunts and internal pain may also cause exercise intolerance. this does warrent further investigation by your veterinarian.
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