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My small dog has a low resting heart rate. Should I be worried?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 13 lbs

Can a small dog have a low heart rate at rest? I read online that bigger dogs can have a resting heart rate of 60-100 where as smaller dogs have higher resting heart rates. My dog has a low resting heart rate and the vet we met with at the ER didn't seem very concerned about it. This is he first time I've checked his heart rate before (we got him in November 2016). We don't have much money right now so we are trying to avoid another visit if possible. We will take him in if necessary.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on July 6th, 2017

I would expect a smaller dog to have a resting heart rate of around 90-110 but I have seen them a little lower before especially if they are athletic . If it is much lower than that then I would contact your vet for an additional exam to ensure her heart sound okay and her pulses are strong. if she has any rapid or labored breathing then contact your vet immediately as this is an emergency. I hope this helps!

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