What is the normal heart rate range for dogs?

The normal heart rate range for dogs is indeed 60-160 beats per minute, and this range varies based on the dog's size and breed. Larger breeds typically have a slower heart rate, often towards the lower end of this range, while smaller breeds tend to have a faster heart rate, generally falling at the higher end. Understanding this variability is important for veterinary assistants, as it allows them to assess a dog's health more accurately and recognize when a dog's heart rate may be abnormal for its size and breed.

This range is critical in clinical practice since heart rate can be indicative of a dog’s overall cardiovascular health, stress levels, and even emotional state. Monitoring heart rate and understanding the contextual factors affecting it can aid in making informed decisions regarding a dog's care and treatment.