What Is The Normal Pulse Rate Of A Dog?
The pulse rate varies according to the size of the dog; a small breed may have a pulse rate of 100 beats a minute while that of a Great Dane is usually only about 70. The beat is often intermittent, so do not rush to the vet if that seems all that is wrong with your dog. In cases of illness the pulse rate increases to anything up to about 150 to 160 beats per minute in a small dog and about 100 or slightly more in a big dog. A slow pulse is more dangerous than a fast one as it often means collapse of the patient. In pneumonia the pulse rate is often slow because the heart is affected. Naturally after exertion the rate is fast, but it should return to normal within a few minutes of rest. If the pulse is very weak or slow, give stimulants. It is best felt on the inside of the dog’s thigh where the big femoral artery is superficial and easily contacted, or the inside of the forearm. You must move your fingers over the area to find its position. Take the pulse with your fingers, not your thumb, or you may be taking your own pulse and not that of the dog.
dogandmaster on November 26th 2006 in Dog Health
