Seeing a dog collapse can be frightening, especially when it’s sudden and unexpected. In those moments, it’s easy to panic, but calm, simple actions can help give a dog the best possible chance while you seek veterinary care.
In this Trainer’s Corner video, the Onelife team demonstrate what to do if a dog collapses and appears not to be breathing.
Checking a dog’s condition
If a dog collapses:
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Check if they are responsive
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Look for normal breathing
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Check for a pulse by feeling inside the top of the back leg
If there’s no breathing and no pulse, CPR may be needed.
Dog CPR – keeping it simple
Dog CPR follows a similar rhythm to human CPR:
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30 chest compressions
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2 rescue breaths
Because of a dog’s anatomy:
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Keep the mouth closed
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Breathe gently through the nose
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Continue CPR until the dog shows signs of recovery or veterinary help takes over
Even if a dog begins to move or breathe again, it’s vital to get them to a vet immediately, as there may be an underlying cause that needs treatment.
A calm reminder
Not every situation will look textbook, and not everyone will feel confident, it’s a scary scenario to deal with afterall. But doing something calmly and quickly is far better than doing nothing.
This video isn’t about perfection. It’s about helping people feel more prepared if the unexpected happens.
Explore more with Onelife
You can find more Trainer’s Corner videos on our website or YouTube channel, covering both everyday and less common first aid scenarios. We also share bite-sized guidance on our In Case of Emergency podcast.
If you’re interested in building confidence through practical learning, explore our range of first aid courses, delivered by experienced trainers who focus on real-life situations.
