PHYSIOLOGIC DATA for the DOG
BODY TEMPERATURE of normal adult dog is 101.0F-102.5F, puppy temperatures may be lower.
This is a rectal temperature taken by shaking down a rectal thermometer to under 98F, lubricating it with Vaseline and carefully placing it half way into the rectum of your pet. Hold the dog still, leaving the thermometer in place 2 or 3 minutes. Remove, clean with a cotton ball and rubbing alcohol and read the thermometer.
PULSE RATE
PUPPIES 150-220 beats per minute
TOY BREEDS 120-180 beats per minute
MEDIUM BREEDS 100-150 beats per minute
LARGE BREEDS 80-130 beats per minute
GIANT BREEDS 60-110 beats per minute
NOTE: that there is no exact rate for any one breed or size under any specific circumstances.
The pulse can be taken either by finding it inside the hind leg near the groin or by holding your hand over the heart of the dog; an area along the left chest wall just behind where the elbow normally contacts the body.
RESPIRATORY RATE is 10 to 28 breaths per minute and is not specific for any breed. Panting should not be confused with normal respiration.
Puberty: 4-6 months, or up to 1 year in some dogs. Earlier in males, first heat in females may be delayed due to the season, and may occur later in larger breeds.
Spay/neuter: traditionally 6 months or older, some advise earlier age
First bred: on second or third heat, males best over 1 year old
Gestation: 57-73 days, 63 days considered average
Litter size: varies with breed, usually more pups in larger breeds
Heat cycles: 1 heat every 6 months except the basenji which usually has only one heat yearly.
Anestrus: the time between heat cycles or the period of sexual inactivity. Usually lasts 3-6 months. Female will not attract or accept males.
Proestrus: the period as the female becomes sexually active. Vulva swells, bloody discharge noted, males are attracted but female generally will not allow breeding. Phase usually lasts 7-10 days.
Estrus: the "true" heat phase, the time when the female is ovulating. Female attracts males, teases and flirts and will allow copulation. Usually little or no bleeding now. Phase lasts 7-10 days.
Diestrus: the final 5-10 days of the cycle. Female is no longer receptive. Small amount of bloody or mucous discharge appears and then finally disappears.
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©2007 James W. Day D.V.M., P.C.