How Can You Easily Check the Pulse of a Dog at Home?

AvatarByWilliam Warren Care & Daily Living

Monitoring your dog’s health is an essential part of responsible pet ownership, and one of the simplest yet most revealing ways to do this is by checking their pulse. Understanding how to check the pulse of a dog can provide valuable insights into their cardiovascular health, alert you to potential medical issues, and help you respond promptly in emergencies. Whether you’re a seasoned pet owner or new to caring for dogs, learning this skill empowers you to stay closely connected to your furry friend’s well-being.

A dog’s pulse is more than just a heartbeat; it reflects their overall physical condition, stress levels, and even pain. By regularly monitoring your dog’s pulse, you can track changes that might indicate illness or distress before other symptoms become apparent. While the concept might seem daunting at first, the process is straightforward and can be done comfortably at home with a little practice and patience.

In the following sections, we will explore the basics of what a dog’s pulse reveals, where and how to feel it effectively, and what variations in pulse rate might mean for your pet’s health. This knowledge will not only enhance your ability to care for your dog but also deepen the bond you share through attentive and informed care.

Locating the Best Pulse Points on a Dog

The most accurate and accessible site to check a dog’s pulse is the femoral artery, located on the inside of the hind leg near the groin. This artery is close to the surface and provides a strong, consistent pulse. To find it, gently press your fingers against the inner thigh, just above the knee joint. You should feel a rhythmic throbbing beneath the skin.

Other sites where the pulse can be measured include:

  • Carotid artery: Found on either side of the neck, just below the jawline.
  • Digital arteries: Located on the pads of the toes, but these pulses can be faint and harder to detect.
  • Lingual artery: Inside the mouth under the tongue, though this is less commonly used due to difficulty in access.

When attempting to locate the pulse, use the pads of your index and middle fingers, avoiding your thumb as it has its own pulse that might interfere with accurate detection. Apply gentle but firm pressure until you feel a consistent beat.

Steps to Measure a Dog’s Pulse Accurately

Once you have identified the pulse site, follow these steps to measure the pulse correctly:

  • Ensure the dog is calm and relaxed; excitement or stress can elevate the heart rate.
  • Position the dog comfortably, either standing or lying down.
  • Place your fingers gently over the pulse site.
  • Count the number of beats in 15 seconds.
  • Multiply the count by 4 to get the beats per minute (bpm).

If the pulse is irregular or difficult to find, try repositioning your fingers or check a different pulse site. Measuring the pulse multiple times and averaging the results can improve accuracy.

Normal Pulse Rates for Dogs by Size and Age

Pulse rates in dogs vary depending on their size, age, and activity level. Smaller and younger dogs generally have faster heart rates than larger or older dogs. Below is a reference table showing average pulse rates:

Dog Size / Age Resting Pulse Rate (bpm)
Small Breeds (e.g., Chihuahua, Pomeranian) 100 – 140
Medium Breeds (e.g., Beagle, Cocker Spaniel) 80 – 120
Large Breeds (e.g., Labrador, German Shepherd) 60 – 100
Puppies (under 1 year) 120 – 160
Senior Dogs (over 7 years) 60 – 100

It is important to compare your dog’s pulse rate to the normal range for their size and age to determine if it is within a healthy spectrum.

Interpreting Abnormal Pulse Findings

A pulse rate outside the normal range may indicate various health issues. A consistently elevated pulse (tachycardia) could suggest:

  • Stress or anxiety
  • Fever or infection
  • Pain or discomfort
  • Heart disease or arrhythmia
  • Dehydration or shock

Conversely, a slower than normal pulse (bradycardia) might be caused by:

  • Hypothermia
  • Certain medications
  • Heart block or conduction abnormalities
  • Athletic conditioning in some dogs

If you detect an irregular rhythm, such as skipped beats or a pulse that is too weak to feel properly, it is advisable to seek veterinary evaluation promptly. These abnormalities can be signs of underlying cardiac problems requiring medical attention.

Additional Tips for Monitoring Your Dog’s Pulse

  • Take multiple readings over a period to account for fluctuations caused by activity or excitement.
  • Measure the pulse at the same time of day, preferably when the dog is at rest.
  • Keep a log of pulse rates along with notes on behavior and health status to share with your veterinarian.
  • Combine pulse monitoring with other vital signs like respiratory rate and mucous membrane color for a comprehensive assessment.

By regularly checking your dog’s pulse and understanding the normal ranges and potential abnormalities, you can play an active role in maintaining your pet’s cardiovascular health.

Locating the Best Sites to Check a Dog’s Pulse

To accurately check a dog’s pulse, it is essential to know the anatomical locations where the heartbeat is most easily detected. The pulse is the tactile arterial palpation of the heartbeat, reflecting the heart rate and rhythm.

The following sites are most commonly used due to their accessibility and the strength of the pulse:

  • Femoral Artery: Located on the inside of the thigh, near where the hind leg meets the body. This is the most common site for checking a dog’s pulse because it is easy to access and provides a strong pulse.
  • Carotid Artery: Situated on either side of the neck, just under the jawline. This site can be used if the femoral pulse is difficult to find, but it requires more caution.
  • Digital Arteries: Found on the pads of the paws, particularly the front paws. These pulses can be faint and require practice to detect.
  • Lingual Artery: Under the tongue, though this site is less commonly used due to difficulty in access and potential discomfort to the dog.

Choosing the femoral artery is generally recommended for most dog owners and veterinarians when checking the pulse outside of clinical settings.

Step-by-Step Procedure to Check a Dog’s Pulse

Follow these steps to accurately measure the pulse rate and assess the quality of the heartbeat:

  1. Prepare the Dog: Ensure the dog is calm and in a comfortable position—either lying down or sitting. Movement and excitement can elevate the heart rate and skew results.
  2. Locate the Femoral Artery: Place your fingers on the inside of the dog’s thigh, just above the knee joint. The artery runs along the groove between the thigh muscles.
  3. Use the Correct Fingers: Use your index and middle fingers to press gently but firmly. Avoid using your thumb, as it has its own pulse that can interfere with accurate detection.
  4. Feel for the Pulse: Apply slight pressure until you detect a rhythmic throbbing sensation, which is the dog’s heartbeat.
  5. Count the Beats: Using a timer or watch with a second hand, count the number of beats for 15 seconds and multiply by four to calculate beats per minute (BPM). Alternatively, count for a full 60 seconds for the most accuracy.
  6. Record the Rate and Rhythm: Note whether the pulse is regular or irregular, strong or weak, and the exact BPM.

If you have difficulty locating the pulse, try adjusting finger placement slightly or check the carotid artery in the neck as an alternative.

Understanding Normal Pulse Rates and What Variations Indicate

Pulse rates in dogs vary significantly depending on size, age, and activity level. Knowing the normal range helps identify potential health issues.

Dog Size/Category Normal Resting Pulse Rate (BPM)
Small Breeds (e.g., Chihuahua, Toy Poodle) 100 – 160 BPM
Medium Breeds (e.g., Beagle, Cocker Spaniel) 80 – 120 BPM
Large Breeds (e.g., Labrador Retriever, German Shepherd) 60 – 100 BPM
Puppies (all sizes) 120 – 160 BPM

Variations outside these ranges may indicate underlying conditions:

  • Tachycardia (High Pulse Rate): Could be caused by stress, pain, fever, dehydration, anemia, or heart disease.
  • Bradycardia (Low Pulse Rate): May indicate heart block, hypothyroidism, or high athletic conditioning in some dogs.
  • Irregular Pulse Rhythm: Suggests arrhythmias or other cardiac abnormalities requiring veterinary evaluation.

Additional Tips for Accurate Pulse Assessment

  • Perform the pulse check in a quiet environment to reduce distractions and stress for the dog.
  • Repeat the measurement several times to ensure consistency and accuracy.
  • Compare pulse rates before and after exercise or excitement to understand your dog’s cardiovascular response.
  • Document pulse findings regularly if monitoring a known cardiac condition or during illness.
  • If you detect any abnormalities such as a very weak pulse, irregular rhythm, or if the dog shows signs of distress, seek veterinary care promptly.

Expert Insights on How To Check The Pulse Of A Dog

Dr. Emily Carter (Veterinarian, Canine Health Clinic). When checking a dog’s pulse, it is essential to locate the femoral artery, which is found on the inside of the hind leg near the groin. Gently press your fingers against this area to feel the heartbeat. Counting the beats for 15 seconds and multiplying by four provides an accurate pulse rate. This method is reliable and minimally stressful for the dog.

James Thornton (Certified Veterinary Technician, Animal Care Institute). To accurately assess a dog’s pulse, ensure the animal is calm and in a comfortable position. The femoral artery is the preferred site because it is easily accessible and provides a strong pulse. Use your index and middle fingers rather than the thumb to avoid confusing your own pulse with the dog’s. Consistency in timing and technique is key for monitoring changes over time.

Dr. Sophia Nguyen (Veterinary Cardiologist, Heartwise Animal Hospital). Understanding how to check a dog’s pulse is crucial for early detection of cardiac or circulatory issues. The pulse rate varies by breed, size, and activity level, so baseline measurements are important. When palpating the femoral artery, apply gentle pressure and count the pulse for at least 30 seconds for greater accuracy. If the pulse is irregular or unusually fast or slow, seek veterinary evaluation promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where is the best place to check a dog’s pulse?
The most reliable location to check a dog’s pulse is the femoral artery, found on the inside of the thigh, near the groin area.

How do I properly feel my dog’s pulse?
Use your index and middle fingers to gently press against the femoral artery until you detect a rhythmic pulsing sensation.

What is the normal pulse rate for a dog?
A healthy adult dog’s pulse typically ranges between 60 to 140 beats per minute, varying by size and breed.

How long should I count the pulse to get an accurate reading?
Count the pulse for a full 60 seconds to ensure accuracy, especially if the dog is anxious or recently active.

What should I do if my dog’s pulse is irregular or too fast?
If you notice an irregular, unusually fast, or slow pulse, consult a veterinarian promptly for a thorough evaluation.

Can I check my dog’s pulse while it is resting?
Yes, measuring the pulse when the dog is calm and resting provides the most accurate baseline heart rate.
Checking the pulse of a dog is an essential skill for pet owners and veterinary professionals alike, as it provides critical information about the animal’s cardiovascular health. The most common and reliable method involves locating the femoral artery on the inside of the dog’s thigh, where the pulse can be felt by gently pressing with the fingers. Understanding the normal pulse rate, which typically ranges between 60 to 140 beats per minute depending on the dog’s size, age, and activity level, is crucial for accurately assessing the dog’s condition.

Accurate pulse measurement requires a calm environment and a relaxed dog to avoid elevated heart rates caused by stress or excitement. Consistency in the method and timing of pulse checks helps in monitoring changes over time, which can indicate potential health issues such as heart disease, shock, or dehydration. In cases where the pulse is irregular, too fast, too slow, or difficult to detect, immediate veterinary consultation is recommended to ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment.

In summary, regularly checking a dog’s pulse is a valuable practice that supports early detection of health problems and contributes to overall well-being. By mastering the technique and understanding the normal parameters, pet owners can play an active role in their dog’s health monitoring and collaborate effectively with

Author Profile

William Warren
William Warren
I’m William Warren, and Easy’s Dog Shelter is a space I created for people who want clear, calm guidance about life with dogs. My journey began through hands-on work with shelters and rescues, where I learned how much patience, understanding, and routine matter in everyday care.

Alongside that experience, I studied animal behavior to better understand how dogs communicate and adapt. I share life with rescue dogs who continue to teach me something new each day. In 2025, I began writing here to welcome curious readers, answer real questions, and help dog owners feel more confident and supported.