What factors could affect a dog's heart rate during an exam?

A dog's heart rate can be influenced by several physiological and emotional factors, particularly excitement, stress, and pain. During an examination, a dog may experience stress due to being in an unfamiliar environment, the presence of unfamiliar individuals, or the handling involved in the examination process. This heightened emotional state can lead to an increase in heart rate as part of the body's natural 'fight or flight' response.

Additionally, if a dog is in pain—whether due to a medical condition, injury, or discomfort from the examination itself—this can also trigger an elevated heart rate. Pain often stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, resulting in an increase in heart rate as the body prepares to respond to the discomfort.

While mealtime, hydration levels, noise levels, and breed or age might have some impact on heart rate, the direct emotional and physical responses that come with stress, excitement, and pain are more pronounced and have a more immediate effect on heart rate during an exam.