How to Perform CPR on Small and Barrel-Shaped Dogs

Knowing how to perform CPR on a dog can be life-saving in an emergency. The technique varies depending on the size and shape of the dog, so it is important to adapt your approach to avoid causing further injury while still delivering effective chest compressions.

CPR for Small Dogs

When performing CPR on a small dog, using your full body weight or pressing down with one or two hands on the chest can apply far too much pressure and reduce your control.

Correct Hand Position

Instead, you should cup your hands around the dog’s body. Place your thumbs on top of each other on the side of the chest, with your fingers supporting the opposite side.

This technique allows you to:

• Apply controlled pressure
• Avoid excessive force
• Maintain better stability during compressions

Depending on the dog’s size and body shape, you may only be able to use one hand, which is acceptable. Ideally, using two hands will give you more pressure and improved control.

Compression Technique

It is essential that the compression and release phases are equal. Always allow the chest to fully recoil before pressing down again. This ensures effective blood circulation during CPR.

CPR for Barrel-Shaped Dogs

For barrel-chested dogs, such as breeds with wide, deep chests, CPR is performed differently.

Positioning the Dog

Lay the dog on their back. This allows you to perform CPR in a way that is very similar to human CPR.

Hand Placement and Compressions

Place one or two hands in the centre of the chest and deliver firm, controlled compressions straight down.

The speed and rhythm of CPR for barrel-shaped dogs is the same as demonstrated in other CPR training videos, ensuring consistency across all CPR techniques.

Key Points to Remember

• Always adapt CPR technique to the dog’s size and chest shape
• Avoid excessive pressure on small dogs
• Ensure full chest recoil between compressions
• Use a human-style CPR technique for barrel-shaped dogs