Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

Why is my 4-month puppy panting at night and restless? Is it food?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Female | unspayed | 4 months and 16 days old

My 4 month pup is panting excessively at night unable to settle and is licking almost everything and every surface. I feel her food isn't right for her and I'm thinking of stopping it all and cooking her fresh ingredients

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Rebecca, DVM

Answered By Rebecca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 6, 2017

I wouldn't attribute panting at night and being unable to settle as a food issue. It sounds more like either pain or anxiety.
It is very difficult to adequately meet the nutritional needs of most dogs with a home cooked diet. If you plan to do a home made diet, I strongly recommend working with a veterinary nutritionist or company such as Balance-it to formulate a diet that will meet her needs. Especially as a growing, large breed dog, she has specific calcium and phosphorus needs for bone growth.
I would first consider a breed specific diet such as Royal Canin large breed growth or GSD puppy formula.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button