Increased pulse
You may have wondered why your dog sometimes breathes so quickly or why his heart beats so strongly. There can be various reasons for this, which are not always alarming. In this article, you can find out more about the causes, symptoms and treatment options for increased heart rate in dogs.
What is a normal pulse for a dog?
The normal heart rate for a dog depends on its size, age and activity level. In general, the smaller the dog, the faster its heart beats. A puppy, for example, has a pulse of around 200 beats per minute, while a large adult dog has a pulse of around 60 beats per minute. The average is around 100 beats per minute.
A dog's pulse can also change depending on the situation. If your dog is excited, anxious or physically active, his heart will beat faster. When he is asleep or relaxed, his heart beats more slowly. This is completely normal and nothing to worry about.
What are the signs of an increased heart rate in a dog?
An increased heart rate in a dog can be an indication of a serious condition that requires veterinary treatment. Some of the most common causes of an increased pulse in a dog are:
- Cardiovascular disease such as heart failure, valvular heart disease or cardiac arrhythmias
- Respiratory diseases such as pneumonia, asthma or lungworms
- Blood loss due to injuries, parasites or internal bleeding
- Shock due to poisoning, allergies or infections
- Pain due to injuries, inflammation or diseases such as arthritis or cancer
- Fever due to infection or inflammation
- Stress due to anxiety, excitement or trauma
The signs of an increased heart rate in a dog can vary depending on the cause, but some of the most common are
- Rapid or shallow breathing
- Coughing or panting
- Pale or blue mucous membranes
- Weakness or lethargy
- Loss of appetite or weight loss
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Tremors or seizures
If you notice one or more of these signs in your dog, you should take him to the vet as soon as possible.
How is an increased heart rate in a dog treated?
The treatment of an elevated heart rate in a dog depends on the underlying cause. The vet will examine your dog thoroughly and may perform blood tests, x-rays or other tests to make the diagnosis. Depending on the severity of the condition, your dog may require drug therapy, fluid therapy, oxygen therapy or surgery.
The prognosis for a dog with an elevated heart rate also depends on the cause and the dog's overall health. Some conditions can be treated well, while others can be chronic or life-threatening. It is important that you follow your vet's instructions and take your dog for regular check-ups.
How can you prevent an elevated heart rate in your dog?
You can't always prevent an elevated heart rate in your dog, but you can take some steps to reduce the risk. These include:
- Make sure your dog is vaccinated and dewormed
- Feed your dog a balanced and high-quality diet
- Keep your dog's weight in a healthy range
- Provide your dog with sufficient exercise and play
- Avoid stress factors for your dog such as noise, heat or strangers
- Keep your dog away from toxic substances or dangerous objects
- Take your dog to the vet for regular check-ups
An increased heart rate in dogs can be a sign of a serious condition that requires immediate veterinary care. If you recognize the signs of an elevated heart rate in your dog, you should not hesitate to take him to the vet. With early diagnosis and treatment, you can improve your dog's health and well-being.
The authors assume that a veterinarian should be consulted if an animal is ill and that medication should only be taken after consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Only an individual examination can lead to a diagnosis and treatment decision.
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