Cardiac Auscultation (Stethoscope Exam)
Your vet listens to your dog's heart with a stethoscope to detect murmurs, arrhythmias, and abnormal heart sounds. The simplest and most common cardiac screening tool.
What it measures
Heart rate, heart rhythm (regular vs irregular), presence and grade of heart murmurs (Grade I-VI), location of murmurs (which valve), gallop rhythms, and lung sounds (crackles suggesting fluid). A murmur doesn't always mean heart disease, and absence of a murmur doesn't guarantee a healthy heart - some serious conditions like DCM may not produce a murmur until late in the disease.
What to expect
Your vet places a stethoscope on your dog's chest, typically on both sides. They listen for 30-60 seconds on each side. Your dog stands or sits normally. Completely painless and non-invasive. Done at every routine vet visit. If a murmur is detected, your vet will grade it (I-VI) and may recommend further testing.
Typical cost
Included in a regular veterinary exam ($50-100 for the visit). No additional charge for auscultation.
How often
At every veterinary visit (at least annually). For at-risk breeds: every 6-12 months starting at age 1-3 depending on breed. For dogs with known murmurs: as recommended by your vet, typically every 6-12 months.
Conditions detected
Breeds that need this test
This test may be recommended for any breed with suspected heart disease.
In-depth guide
Read our complete guide to cardiac auscultation (stethoscope exam)for dogs →
Need to schedule a heart listen?
Find a board-certified veterinary cardiologist near you who can perform this test and interpret the results.
Find a cardiologist →Medical disclaimer: Heart Dog Club provides educational information only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian or board-certified veterinary cardiologist (DACVIM-Cardiology) regarding your dog's health.