Panting

Question
I have a 2 yr.old Jack Russell-female.  My question is why does she pant and breathe hard as if she was running around when she isn't doing anything?

Answer
It could be many reasons, but that is how they cool themselves down when they are hot (even if they haven't been running).  Sometimes dogs do that when they are fearful or stressed too - has anything changed lately that might be making her a little stressed out? Lastly it could be something physical (is she on heartworm medicine?), dogs have respiratory distress with heartworm infestation, so it might be a good idea to have her checked out.

Best of luck with her!