Knowing your dog's regular pulse rate can help you and your veterinarian in an emergency. The number of heart rates for dogs can vary wildly depending on size and age, and even then can vary depending upon breed. Taking your dog's pulse, as well as knowing what's normal for him can help you determine whether or not you have an emergency situation.
Things You'll Need
- Dog
- Watch
Instructions
The Inner Thigh
Lay your dog down. The side you lay her on does not matter.
Lift her back legs apart gently.
Place your index and middle fingers as high up as possible on the inside of either leg. The place you are looking for is where the leg meets the body. Use a light touch. If you press too hard, you will not feel a pulse when you look for it.
With your other hand, feel for the pulse. You should feel it half way between the front and back of the leg. A small recess should be present in the leg, where the blood vessels run.
Count the number of beats per minute. This is your dog's pulse.
Directly Over the Heart
Place your dog on her right side.
Bend her left leg at the elbow, gently.
Bring the elbow back so that it touches the chest.
Place your index and middle finger over the area where the elbow touches the chest. This is approximately the fifth rib.
Count the number of beats per minute. This is your dog's pulse.
Wrist
Have the animal sit or lie down.
Take the dog's paw in your hand.
Locate the area in the middle of the underside of the paw, directly above the paw pad.
Place your index and middle finger on this spot.
Feel for a pulse.
Ankle
Have your dog sit or lie down.
Take your dog's hind leg in your hand.
Locate a spot directly above the middle of the paw pad on the bottom of the hind paw.
Place your index and middle finger on this spot
Feel for a pulse.