Darmowa dostawa już od 99 złWhy is it important to monitor your dog’s heart rate?
Our dogs’ health is a top priority. One of the key indicators of a dog’s overall condition is its heart rate. Monitoring it regularly can help detect potential health problems early and allow for quick intervention. In this article, you’ll learn what heart rate is, what’s considered normal, how to measure it, and what irregularities might indicate.
What is a dog’s heart rate?
Heart rate refers to the number of heartbeats per minute. It’s one of the basic vital signs, providing insight into a dog’s circulatory health. Apart from the number of beats, it’s also important to observe the rhythm and strength of the pulse, as irregularities can point to various health issues.
What is a normal heart rate for a dog?
Heart rate norms vary depending on the dog’s size, age, and physical condition. General ranges are:
- Small dogs and puppies: 100–160 beats per minute
- Medium-sized dogs: 80–120 beats per minute
- Large dogs: 60–100 beats per minute
Puppies and smaller breeds typically have faster heart rates than larger dogs. These values can also change due to factors such as health status, emotional state (e.g. stress or excitement), and physical activity.
How to measure your dog’s heart rate?
Measuring a dog’s heart rate is simple and can be done at home. Follow these steps:
- Find the right spot – The best place is the inside of the hind leg, where the femoral artery runs. You can also check at the base of the tail or on the chest behind the front leg.
- Use two fingers – Gently place your index and middle finger on the area. Don’t press too hard to avoid blocking blood flow.
- Count the beats – Count the number of beats in 15 seconds and multiply by 4 to get the beats per minute.
- Compare with normal ranges – Check if the result matches the expected range for your dog’s size and age. If not, consult your vet.
What does an abnormal heart rate mean?
Abnormal heart rates in dogs can signal a variety of health problems:
- Tachycardia (too fast) – may indicate stress, fever, dehydration, or more serious heart conditions.
- Bradycardia (too slow) – can result from cardiovascular issues, poisoning, or metabolic disorders.
- Irregular rhythm – may suggest arrhythmia, which needs immediate veterinary attention.
When to consult a vet?
If your dog’s heart rate is clearly too high or too low, or irregular, contact your vet as soon as possible. Timely intervention may prevent serious complications.
Regular monitoring
If your dog already has diagnosed health issues, regularly checking its heart rate is an effective way to track its condition. Measuring the heart rate during rest, stress, or activity helps you better understand how your dog responds in different situations.
Summary
Heart rate is a vital health indicator that every dog owner should know how to monitor. Understanding what’s normal and knowing how to measure your dog’s pulse can help you detect health issues early and provide the best possible care. Regular heart rate checks are a simple but powerful way to look after your dog’s wellbeing.
