How to Do CPR on a Dog: Step-by-Step Guide

When Would a Dog Need CPR?

CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is needed when a dog has no heartbeat and is not breathing. This can occur after drowning, electrocution, severe trauma, cardiac arrest, or respiratory failure. CPR buys time until emergency veterinary care is available — it is not a substitute for it. Call for help and get to an emergency vet as fast as possible while performing CPR.

Before Starting CPR: Check for Signs of Life

Check responsiveness: Call your dog's name, tap their shoulder. No response?
Check breathing: Watch for chest movement. Feel for breath on your cheek. No breathing?
Check pulse: Feel the femoral artery on the inner thigh, or press your hand against the left chest behind the elbow. No pulse?

If no breathing AND no pulse: begin CPR immediately and have someone call an emergency vet.

Dog CPR: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Position Your Dog

Lay your dog on a firm, flat surface on their right side. Straighten the neck slightly to open the airway.

Step 2: Open the Airway

Gently tilt the head back and pull the tongue forward to ensure the airway is clear. Check for any visible obstruction and remove it if safely accessible.

Step 3: Give Rescue Breaths

Close your dog's mouth with your hand. Place your mouth over their nose (not mouth) and breathe in until you see the chest rise. Give 2 rescue breaths. For small dogs, cover both the nose and mouth with your mouth.

🚑 Recommended: Dog Oxygen/Inhaler Mask for Large Dogs — Pet oxygen mask for emergency respiratory support. Suitable for large dogs. Keep in your emergency kit for situations requiring oxygen delivery.

Step 4: Chest Compressions

Compression technique varies by dog size:

Large dogs (over 30 lbs): Place the heel of one hand over the widest part of the chest (not over the sternum). Place your other hand on top. Compress 1–3 inches at a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute.
Medium dogs (15–30 lbs): One hand on each side of the chest. Compress with both hands simultaneously.
Small dogs (under 15 lbs): Place thumb on one side of chest and fingers on the other. Compress gently.
Very small dogs and puppies: Use two fingers on the chest.

Step 5: CPR Cycle

Perform 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths. Continue this 30:2 ratio without stopping. Check for pulse and breathing every 2 minutes.

Step 6: Continue Until

Your dog resumes breathing and has a pulse
A veterinarian takes over
You are physically unable to continue

Important Notes

CPR can cause rib fractures — this is acceptable in a life-or-death situation
CPR is most effective when started within 4 minutes of cardiac arrest
Get to an emergency vet as fast as possible — CPR alone rarely saves a dog without underlying treatment

🧰 Recommended: EVERLIT Pet Medic First Aid Kit (95 Pcs) — Vet-approved emergency kit. Keep one at home and one in the car.

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