Black Lab Excessive Panting

I have a 13 yo Black lab that is on the downside of his career. He can't get up on his own without assistance due to hip problems. Overall he seems to be in good health other than his walking issues.

Last night he began panting excessively and would not go to sleep. He was very restless and kept wanting to go outside then inside, back outside again and again. He was pacing around and would not lay down. He finally went to sleep around 4:00 am but woke up this morning panting again.

Appetite does not seem to be an issue.

We are concerned with his age, it might be something serious. Is there anything we can check that will help us decide what the next step would be?

Thank you

If he's not settling down, then the only practical help is a vet check.

It sounds like he may have an upset tum or a water infection. Anal glands can also produce similar symptoms.

Excessive panting and restlessness (other than if the dog is over-heated) is usually a sign of pain, so talk to your vet - s/he's the one who can really help xx

Hi - we have 2 elderly dogs who pant excessively from time to time. In our experience apart from pain or discomfort it can be just a consequence of the restlessness and cognitive decline that comes with ageing. It's definitely worth getting your dog checked for any ailments or pain. Otherwise we have found cognitise (supplements) have helped one of our dogs settle better at night. x

Hi WW I agree canine cognitive dysfunction can certainly result in the above symptoms but it tends to come on gradually and the OP says ... ...panting and restlessness says pain somewhere to me as Chris has said .
Dogs panting excessively can also mean a high temperature/infection.

I would be visiting the vet.