Tachycardia in dogs is, simply put, an abnormally rapid heart rate. A normal heart rate in dogs is determined mostly by size, with 70 to 120 beats per minute (bpm) being average for most dogs. Smaller dogs have higher heart rates than larger dogs.

The condition is usually characterized by heart rates greater than 140 bpm in large dogs, 160 bpm in medium sized dogs, 180 bpm in small dogs, or 220 bpm in puppies.

There are three types of tachycardia in dogs: atrial, ventricular, and sinus. Therefore, it’s important that you ask your vet to test for these conditions and treat them accordingly.

Here’s what you should know about symptoms, causes, and treatment for tachycardia in dogs.