Dog Heart Rate Calculator
Small Dog / Puppy (Under 20 lbs)
Medium to Large Dog (20 – 90 lbs)
Giant Breed (Over 90 lbs)
15 Seconds (Multiply by 4)
30 Seconds (Multiply by 2)
60 Seconds (Full Minute)
Calculated Heart Rate:
0
Beats Per Minute (BPM)
How to Correctly Calculate Your Dog's Heart Rate
Monitoring your dog's resting heart rate (RHR) is one of the most effective ways to track their cardiovascular health. Whether you are checking for signs of stress, recovery after exercise, or monitoring a chronic heart condition, knowing how to get an accurate pulse at home is a vital skill for every pet owner.
Step-by-Step Guide to Taking a Pulse
To use the calculator above, you first need to find your dog's pulse. Follow these steps:
- Ensure Calms: Your dog should be resting quietly for at least 15 minutes before taking a measurement. Do not take a "resting" heart rate immediately after a walk or play session.
- Locate the Femoral Artery: The easiest place to find a pulse is on the inner thigh. Place your fingers (not your thumb, as it has its own pulse) where the hind leg joins the body. Feel for the large artery pulsing just under the skin.
- Alternative Method (Chest): You can also feel the heart directly by placing your hand on the left side of the chest, right behind the front elbow.
- Count the Beats: Use a stopwatch or your phone. Count how many beats occur in 15, 30, or 60 seconds.
Understanding the Results
Dog heart rates vary significantly based on the size and age of the animal. Generally, the smaller the dog, the faster the heart beats. Puppies also have significantly higher heart rates than adult dogs.
| Dog Category | Normal Resting Range (BPM) |
|---|---|
| Puppies | 120 – 160 BPM |
| Small Dogs (Under 20 lbs) | 100 – 140 BPM |
| Medium/Large Dogs | 60 – 100 BPM |
| Giant Breeds | 50 – 80 BPM |
Factors That Affect Heart Rate
- Stress and Anxiety: Even a trip to the vet or a loud thunderstorm can cause a spike in heart rate.
- Temperature: Dogs panting in high heat will naturally have an increased heart rate to help cool the body.
- Physical Condition: Highly athletic dogs (like working Border Collies) may have lower resting heart rates than sedentary pets.
- Medical Issues: Dehydration, fever, or heart disease can cause the pulse to be either too fast (tachycardia) or too slow (bradycardia).
When to Call Your Veterinarian
If your dog's resting heart rate is consistently outside the normal range for their size, it is worth a consultation with a professional. Specifically, seek help if the high heart rate is accompanied by coughing, difficulty breathing, lethargy, or fainting spells. These can be early warning signs of congestive heart failure or other cardiac issues.