Normal Vitals for Canines

Are you aware of what is considered normal vital signs for your canine companion? Here are a few important ones for you to note:

Temperature
100 – 102.5 F

Lubricate a digital thermometer with petroleum jelly and gently insert into rectum and listen for beep.

Respiration
20-40 breaths per minute

Watch the chest cavity while the dog is at rest, calmly lying on the floor or standing. Please note respiratory effort (normal, labored, noisy, etc.).

Heart Rate
Puppy (under 1 year): 120-160 beats per minute
Small dog adult (under 30 lbs.): 100-140 beats per minute
Medium-Large dog adult (over 30 lbs.): 60-100 beats per minute

Place your hand on left side of chest or the inner thigh of rear leg and count the number of beats for 15 seconds and multiply by four.

Mucous Membranes
Normal: Pink
Abnormal: Blue, brown, dark red, yellow, very pale or white

Check the gums, tongue or inner eyelids for color.

Capillary Refill Time
Normal: 1- 2 seconds

Gently but firmly press your finger on the gums so they blanch, or turn white, then remove your finger. Note the amount of time it takes for color to return to gums.

Hydration Status
Normal: The skin on scruff of neck should snap back into place immediately after releasing it. Gums and tongue are slick and moist.

Lift the skin on the scruff of neck and release. Check mucous membranes, gums and tongue.