How to Perform CPR on a Dog: A Step-by-Step Guide
How to Perform CPR on a Dog: A Step-by-Step Guide
Imagine this: You're out for a walk with your furry best friend, and suddenly, they collapse. Panic sets in, but WAIT—you remember that CPR isn’t just for humans. Dogs can need it too! Knowing how to perform CPR on a dog could literally save their life. So, let’s break it down into easy steps (without the vet-jargon) because you got this! 💪🐶
🆘 What Is CPR for Dogs?
CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) for dogs is pretty similar to the human version—it involves chest compressions and rescue breaths to keep the heart pumping and oxygen flowing. The goal? Keep them alive until you can get professional help.
But before you go full "doggy doctor" mode, there are some important things to check.
🚨 Step 1: Check If Your Dog Actually Needs CPR
Not every unconscious dog needs CPR! Performing it on a breathing dog can do more harm than good. So, first things first:
Check for responsiveness 🐾 – Call their name loudly, gently shake or tap their body. No response? Move to step 2.
Check for breathing 🌬️ – Look at their chest for movement, feel for breath near their nose. No breathing? Move to step 3.
Check for a heartbeat ❤️ – Place your hand on their left side, just behind the elbow. No pulse? Time to act—STAT!
⚠️ CPR is only for dogs who are unresponsive AND not breathing.
💨 Step 2: Get in Position
CPR for dogs isn’t one-size-fits-all. Their size matters when it comes to how you perform it.
🔹 Small Dogs & Cats (Under 30 lbs) – Use one hand, compress over the heart. 🔹 Medium to Large Dogs (30+ lbs) – Use two hands, compress over the widest part of the chest. 🔹 Deep-Chested Dogs (e.g., Greyhounds) – Compress closer to the heart. 🔹 Barrel-Chested Dogs (e.g., Bulldogs) – Lay them on their back and do compressions on the breastbone.
Make sure your dog is lying on their right side on a firm surface.
❤️ Step 3: Perform Chest Compressions
Time to get to work! Here’s how to pump that pup’s heart back to life:
Lock your hands (or fingers for small dogs) and place them in the right spot (see positioning above).
Push hard and fast – Aim for 100-120 compressions per minute (about the beat of “Stayin’ Alive” 🎵).
Go 1/3 to 1/2 the chest depth – No shallow pats, but don’t go too hard either.
Do 30 compressions, then move to the next step (rescue breaths!).
🔥 Pro Tip: If you’re alone, do two minutes of CPR first, THEN call the vet. If you have help, get someone on the phone ASAP.
😤 Step 4: Give Rescue Breaths
Okay, time for some doggy mouth-to-snout action. It’s exactly what it sounds like, but don’t worry—it’s not as weird as it seems. 😅
Close the mouth – Hold it shut firmly.
Cover their nose with your mouth – Yep, seal it in.
Breathe in – Give two strong breaths, watching their chest rise.
Repeat: Do two breaths for every 30 compressions.
If their chest doesn't rise, reposition and try again.
⏳ Step 5: Continue Until Help Arrives
Keep going until one of these happens:
✔️ Your dog starts breathing on their own (YAY!) 🎉 ✔️ A vet or emergency responder takes over. ✔️ You’re completely exhausted and can’t continue (which happens, CPR is hard work!).
The moment they show signs of life (blinking, movement, breathing), STOP CPR and let them recover.
🏥 What to Do After CPR
Even if your dog wakes up, they still need a vet. CPR can be lifesaving, but it’s only a temporary fix. Head to the nearest animal hospital ASAP!
📞 Call ahead and let them know you’re coming—they may be able to help stabilize your dog faster when you arrive.
🐕🦺 Preventing Emergencies: Be Prepared!
A little prep can go a LONG way in emergencies. Here’s how you can be ready:
✅ Know your vet’s emergency number 📞 ✅ Learn where the nearest 24/7 animal ER is ✅ Take a pet first aid class (yes, they exist!) ✅ Keep a pet first aid kit at home 🏡 ✅ Know your dog’s normal pulse and breathing rate
🎯 Final Thoughts: CPR Can Save Your Dog’s Life!
Knowing how to perform CPR on a dog is a game-changer. Hopefully, you’ll never need it, but if the moment comes, you’ll be ready to act fast. Remember:
🐾 Check responsiveness first 🐾 Right positioning matters 🐾 100-120 compressions per minute 🐾 Rescue breaths every 30 compressions 🐾 Never stop until help arrives or they revive
Spread the word—share this guide with fellow dog lovers! The more people who know dog CPR, the more lives we can save. 🐕❤️
Stay safe, stay prepared, and give your pup an extra hug today! 🐾💕
