Increased heart rate (tachycardia) in Dogs

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 17.02.2026
Table of contents

When to visit the vet?

Urgent see a veterinarian within 24 hours

?

RED for pale mucous membranes, weak pulse, prolonged CRT, dyspnea, collapse/syncope, persistent severe Bleeding, abdominal distension (suspected GDV), or suspected shock.

Unsure about what’s wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our Symptom Checker for more clarity

Definition

An increased heart rate, also known as tachycardia, describes a condition in which a dog’s heart beats faster than normal. This can be a sign of various health problems, some of which can be serious.

Can Occur with the Following Diseases:

Basics and possible causes

A dog’s heart rate can be influenced by various physiological and pathological conditions. Physiologically, heart rate can be increased due to stress, excitement, or physical exertion. Pathologically, however, an increased heart rate can indicate problems such as heart disease, metabolic disorders, or infection.

Tachycardia can be triggered by a variety of factors. Common causes include heart diseases such as heart valve defects or cardiomyopathy. These conditions impair the heart’s ability to pump efficiently, leading to a compensatory increase in heart rate.

Extracardiac causes, such as endocrine disorders (e.g., hyperthyroidism), can also play a role. Such hormonal imbalances can accelerate the dog’s metabolism and lead to an increased heart rate.

Infection and Fever are other possible causes of tachycardia in dogs. The body can respond to an infection with an increased heart rate to improve blood circulation and thus the supply of immune cells and nutrients.

Finally, certain medications or toxins can also lead to an increased heart rate. Some medications commonly prescribed to dogs have tachycardia as a side effect. Similarly, toxins from the environment or certain foods can affect the heart.

Typical accompanying symptoms

  • Dyspnea: Dogs with tachycardia may have difficulty breathing as the heart tries to pump more oxygen through the body.

  • Weakness or lethargy: A persistently increased heart rate can lead to fatigue because the body uses more energy.

  • Cough: Especially with heart problems, a cough can be an accompanying symptom because fluid can get into the lungs.

  • Fainting or collapse: In severe cases, the blood supply to the brain may be insufficient, which can lead to loss of consciousness.

  • Pale or bluish gums: This may indicate an insufficient oxygen supply caused by ineffective heart function.

When to see a vet?

A veterinary visit is urgently required if the increased heart rate is accompanied by severe symptoms such as fainting, severe Cough, or dyspnea. Even if symptoms appear suddenly and without apparent reason, quick action is important.

Even with less acute symptoms, a veterinarian should be consulted if the tachycardia persists for a longer period or worsens. Early diagnosis can help prevent more serious complications.

In cases where the dog has a known heart condition, regular monitoring of the heart rate and close cooperation with the veterinarian are crucial to monitor the health status and adjust the treatment if necessary.

Symptom recognition for the pet owner and veterinary diagnostic procedure

Pet owners can measure their dog’s heart rate by feeling the pulse on the inside of the thigh or on the chest. A normal heart rate varies depending on the dog’s size and breed, but typically ranges from 60 to 140 beats per minute.

The veterinarian will likely perform a comprehensive physical examination, which includes listening to the heart with a stethoscope to detect heart murmurs or irregularities.

Further diagnosis may involve blood tests, X-rays, ultrasound examinations of the heart (echocardiography), and an electrocardiogram (ECG). These tests help identify possible underlying conditions and determine the severity of the tachycardia.

What the pet owner can do and professional therapy options

As a pet owner, you can take some measures to support your dog’s well-being while waiting for the vet appointment. Ensure your dog is in a calm and stress-free environment to avoid further increases in heart rate.

Exercise should be limited to a minimum to reduce stress on the heart. Do not let your dog overexert itself and avoid exciting situations that could further increase its heart rate.

Always keep fresh water available and ensure your dog drinks enough fluids. Good hydration can help support circulation and potentially alleviate symptoms.

If your dog is taking medication for an existing heart condition, ensure it is administered regularly and according to your veterinarian’s instructions. Avoid giving your dog new medications or supplements without consulting your veterinarian, as these could affect the heart rate.

Outlook on current research

Research on increased heart rate, also known as tachycardia, in dogs focuses on identifying causes and developing effective diagnosis and treatment strategies. Current studies are investigating the role of genetic factors, environmental conditions, and nutrition on heart rate in dogs. Researchers are trying to identify the genetic markers that make dogs more susceptible to tachycardia in order to develop targeted prevention strategies. In addition, research is being conducted on how environmental stressors, such as noise or social isolation, can affect heart rate. These findings could help minimize the risk of tachycardia through targeted changes in the dogs’ living environment.

Another area of research focuses on developing new technologies and methods for continuous heart rate monitoring in dogs. Wearable technologies, such as special collars or implantable sensors, are being developed to monitor heart rate in real time. These technologies could enable veterinarians to detect anomalies early and intervene promptly. Research in this area aims to improve the accuracy and reliability of these devices and make them more accessible for everyday use in pets.

In clinical research, new medications and therapies are being tested to effectively control heart rate. Studies are evaluating the efficacy of beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and other heart rate-lowering medications to establish the best treatment protocols. In parallel, the effect of dietary changes and nutritional supplements on the heart health of dogs is being investigated. Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and other nutrients are being examined for their ability to regulate heart rate and support the overall cardiovascular system.

The role of telemedicine in monitoring and treating heart problems in dogs is also being intensively researched. With the advancement of communication and diagnosis tools, veterinarians can increasingly offer remote consultations, which is particularly important in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine provides a platform where veterinarians can analyze data from wearable heart rate monitors and provide real-time recommendations. This development could revolutionize the way heart problems in dogs are diagnosed and treated.

In summary, current research shows promising progress in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of tachycardia in dogs. The combination of genetic studies, technological innovations, and new therapeutic approaches could lead to improved heart health in dogs in the future. These developments aim to improve the quality of life for affected animals and provide pet owners with better tools to monitor and care for their pets’ heart health.

Frequently asked questions

1. What is a normal heart rate in dogs?
The normal heart rate in dogs varies depending on size and age, but generally ranges between 60 and 140 beats per minute. Smaller dogs and puppies tend to have a higher heart rate, while larger dogs are usually at the lower end of the spectrum.
2. How can I measure my dog's heart rate?
To measure your dog's heart rate, place two fingers lightly on its chest, just behind the elbow, and count the number of beats in 15 seconds. Multiply this number by four to determine the heart rate per minute.
3. What are the most common symptoms of an increased heart rate in dogs?
Common symptoms of tachycardia include increased respiratory rate, Restlessness, weakness, collapse, pale mucous membranes, and in severe cases, fainting. Some dogs may not show obvious symptoms, making regular monitoring important.
4. What can cause an increased heart rate in dogs?
An increased heart rate can be caused by a variety of factors, including Stress, anxiety, Pain, Fever, under- or overactive thyroid, heart disease, or side effects of medication. A veterinarian should diagnose the exact cause.
5. How is an increased heart rate treated in dogs?
The treatment depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, lifestyle or dietary adjustments may be sufficient, while in others, medication or surgical interventions may be necessary. Your veterinarian will create an individualized treatment plan.
6. Can Stress and anxiety increase a dog's heart rate?
Yes, Stress and anxiety can increase a dog's heart rate. In stressful situations, the body releases hormones like epinephrine, which increase heart rate. Long-term Stress can affect heart health, which is why it's important to identify and minimize stressful triggers.
7. Can an increased heart rate in dogs go away on its own?
In some cases, especially when tachycardia is caused by temporary factors such as excitement or mild dehydration, the heart rate may normalize on its own. However, for persistent or severe tachycardia, a veterinarian should be consulted.
8. Are certain dog breeds more susceptible to tachycardia?
Yes, certain breeds, especially those with a genetic predisposition to heart problems, such as Dobermans or Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, may be more susceptible to tachycardia. Regular veterinary check-ups are particularly important for these breeds.
9. How can I help my dog maintain a healthy heart rate?
A healthy diet, regular exercise, and a stress-free environment contribute to maintaining a healthy heart rate. In addition, regular veterinary visits should be scheduled to detect possible heart problems early.
10. What role does nutrition play in controlling heart rate?
A balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and other heart-healthy nutrients can help support heart health and regulate heart rate. Your veterinarian can provide specific dietary recommendations for your dog.