How is the normal heart rate for dogs determined?

The normal heart rate for dogs is influenced primarily by their size and breed. Different breeds of dogs exhibit varying heart rates due to differences in their physiology and body size. For example, smaller breeds tend to have faster heart rates than larger breeds. This relationship is important for understanding what constitutes a normal range for a specific dog.

In contrast, measuring blood pressure is not directly related to determining heart rate, as blood pressure and heart rate are different physiological parameters. Heart auscultation, while a valuable tool for assessing heart function, is only one method of evaluating heart rate and does not independently determine what is normal for a dog. Evaluating dietary habits does not provide relevant information regarding heart rate either, as nutrition impacts overall health rather than directly influencing heart rate on its own.

Therefore, considering the factors that contribute to an understanding of normal heart rate, the size and breed of the dog is the primary determinant.