You can count a dog temperature, heart rate and breathing rate at home, but the normal range shifts with body size and age. Pick the size and age group, enter whatever you measured, and this guide compares each number with the matching normal range. Rectal temperature is the most accurate, and heart rate and breathing rate should be counted while the dog sleeps or after a long rest.
Normal temperature is 100.5 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Heart rate runs 80 to 130 bpm in small dogs, 60 to 100 bpm in large dogs and 120 to 220 bpm in puppies under six months (younger puppies run faster), and breathing runs 10 to 30 breaths per minute. These are the ranges AAHA and WSAVA material uses in common, current as of October 2026. Anxiety, recent activity and room temperature move the numbers a lot, so do not judge on one out-of-range reading.
The body weight that separates a small dog from a large dog differs between sources, so this guide does not sort the group from a weight number for you. You choose the group yourself. At a clinic, excitement can push the heart rate far above the home range. This tool is for reference only and does not replace veterinary care. Contact your veterinarian right away if you notice symptoms or suspect a problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rectal temperature is the most accurate. Ear thermometers can drift a lot depending on placement and ear shape.
Rest a hand on the artery inside the back thigh or on the left chest, count for 15 seconds and multiply by 4. Count while the dog is resting.
Let the dog rest and measure again. If it stays out of range, or energy or appetite changed too, contact your veterinarian.