As a loving pet parent, you notice every little change in your dog’s behavior—whether it’s a tail wag, a change in appetite, or a shift in energy levels. But have you ever paid attention to your dog’s heartbeat?
Understanding your dog’s heartbeat is an important part of monitoring their overall health. Just like humans, dogs rely on a healthy heart to pump blood throughout their bodies, delivering oxygen and nutrients to vital organs. A heartbeat that’s too fast, too slow, or irregular could be a sign that something’s not quite right.
In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about your dog’s heartbeat—what’s normal, how to check it, and when you should seek veterinary care.
What Is a Normal Heartbeat for Dogs?
The normal resting heart rate of a dog can vary depending on their size, age, and activity level:
- Puppies: 120 to 160 beats per minute (bpm)
- Small dogs (<30 lbs): 100 to 160 bpm
- Medium to large dogs (>30 lbs): 60 to 100 bpm
Keep in mind that these values are for resting heart rates. If your dog has just been playing or is excited, their heartbeat may be temporarily elevated.
How to Check Your Dog’s Heartbeat at Home
You don’t need any fancy equipment to check your dog’s heartbeat. Here’s how to do it:
- Find a Quiet Time: Ensure your dog is relaxed, ideally lying down and calm.
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Locate the Pulse:
- Place your hand on your dog’s chest, just behind their front leg.
- Alternatively, feel for the femoral artery on the inside of their upper hind leg.
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Count the Beats:
- Use a stopwatch or phone timer.
- Count the heartbeats for 15 seconds, then multiply that number by 4 to calculate the beats per minute.
If you're unsure about what you're feeling, don't worry. With practice, it becomes easier to detect your dog’s pulse.
Signs of an Abnormal Heartbeat
It’s normal for your dog’s heart rate to fluctuate slightly based on activity or excitement, but there are some warning signs you should watch for:
- Rapid heartbeat at rest (above 160 bpm in a calm dog)
- Slow heartbeat (below 60 bpm in a relaxed, medium/large dog)
- Irregular rhythm
- Lethargy or weakness
- Coughing or labored breathing
- Collapse or fainting episodes
- Bluish gums or tongue
If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your veterinarian immediately. These could be signs of a condition called arrhythmia or underlying heart disease.
Common Causes of Heartbeat Irregularities in Dogs
A dog’s heartbeat may be abnormal due to several reasons:
- Heart Disease: Conditions like dilated cardiomyopathy or valve disorders can cause irregular rhythms.
- Heatstroke: Overheating can lead to a dangerously high heart rate.
- Pain or Anxiety: Stress can temporarily increase your dog’s heart rate.
- Infections: Some infections, like heartworm disease, can affect the heart.
- Electrolyte Imbalance: Low potassium or calcium can cause arrhythmias.
- Congenital Defects: Some dogs are born with heart abnormalities.
How Vets Diagnose Heart Problems in Dogs
If your vet suspects a problem with your dog’s heartbeat, they may perform several tests, such as:
- Auscultation: Listening to the heart with a stethoscope
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): Tracks the heart’s electrical signals to detect irregular rhythms or abnormalities.
- Chest X-rays: Check the size and shape of the heart
- Echocardiogram (Ultrasound): Provides detailed imaging of heart structures
- Blood tests: May reveal infections or heartworm disease
Early detection is key to managing most heart conditions effectively.
Treatment Options for Dogs With Heart Issues
The appropriate treatment varies based on the root cause but can involve:
- Medications: Such as beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, or diuretics
- Surgery: In rare cases, pacemakers or valve repairs may be recommended
- Lifestyle Changes: Like limiting exercise, reducing stress, and maintaining a healthy weight
- Dietary Support: Low-sodium diets or heart supplements may be prescribed
Your vet will provide a tailored plan based on your dog’s diagnosis.
How to Keep Your Dog’s Heart Healthy
While not all heart problems are preventable, you can take steps to support your dog’s heart health:
- Feed a balanced diet with nutrients like taurine and omega-3 fatty acids
- Keep your dog at an ideal weight to minimize stress on their heart and support overall cardiovascular health.
- Provide regular exercise suitable for your dog’s age and breed
- Avoid extreme temperatures, especially in summer
- Prevent heartworm disease with monthly preventives
- Schedule regular vet check-ups, especially for older dogs
Conclusion
Your dog’s heartbeat can tell you a lot about their health. Knowing what’s normal—and what’s not—can help you take quick action when something seems off. If you ever have concerns about your dog’s heart rate or rhythm, don’t wait. Contact your vet for guidance.
Staying educated and attentive allows you to support your dog’s heart health, helping them live a longer, happier, and more vibrant life.
