Blood pressures obtained by indirect measurement in conscious dogs

Heart rate and arterial systolic, mean, and diastolic blood pressures were measured indirectly in apparently healthy dogs in clinical situations (examination rooms, cages, or runs) and in 3 groups of abnormal dogs. An electronic automatic sphygmomanometer measured and analyzed arterial pulses (oscillometric method). Apparently healthy dogs had a mean +/- SD heart rate of 134 +/- 32 beats/min and systolic, mean, and diastolic pressures of 144 +/- 27, 110 +/- 21, and 91 +/- 20 mm of Hg, respectively. The mean systolic pressure was significantly higher in hospitalized dogs than in nonhospitalized dogs. When compared with relaxed dogs, playful dogs had a higher mean heart rate. Apprehensive dogs had a higher mean diastolic pressure than did relaxed dogs. The mean heart rate and blood pressures of panting dogs were not significantly different from the mean values from relaxed dogs. Heavier (greater than 18 kg) and older (greater than 2 years) dogs had lower mean heart rates and higher pressures, compared with lighter (less than or equal to 18 kg) and younger (less than or equal to 2 years) dogs. Infection with Dirofilaria immitis had no effect on heart rate and blood pressures when compared with apparently healthy dogs. Dogs with renal failure had a significantly higher mean diastolic pressure and dogs with mitral regurgitation had a significantly lower mean diastolic pressure, compared with apparently healthy dogs.