Heart disease in dogs: what every owner should know

Heart disease in dogs can be a daunting diagnosis, but with the right knowledge and care, you can significantly improve your dog's quality of life and potentially extend their lifespan. Early detection and proper management, with your vet's help, can make your dog's prognosis more promising. So let's get to it! We'll walk you through the causes, signs, diagnosis, treatment, and management of heart disease in dogs so you can provide the best care possible. What's heart disease in dogs? Heart disease in dogs isn't a single condition. It's a broad term that includes various conditions affecting the heart's function, both congenital (present at birth) and acquired (developed over time). What causes heart disease in dogs? Heart disease in dogs can stem from various factors, including genetics, age, lifestyle, infections, other medical conditions, and exposure to toxins or specific medications. Let’s break down a few of them. Genetics: Are some breeds more at risk? Genetic factors can influence the development of both congenital and acquired heart diseases, which is why it's so important to get your dog from a responsible breeder when possible. There is still no guarantee that your dog won’t develop a heart condition, but it may lessen the chances. Here are the top 10 commonly affected pedigrees: If you adopted one of these pedigrees from a shelter or a different source, don't panic! Just know they might be at risk of developing a heart disease. It doesn't mean they will. Staying up-to-date on preventative care and considering pet insurance before a heart condition (or other unexpected accident or illness) arises is a good idea. Age As dogs age, their risk of developing heart disease increases. Older dogs are more likely to suffer from conditions like mitral valve disease and dilated cardiomyopathy. Lifestyle and diet A dog's lifestyle can significantly impact their heart health. Obesity , lack of physical activity, a poor diet , and a lack of proper preventative care (including heartworm meds in regions affected by the parasite) can contribute to the development of heart disease. Infections Certain infections can lead to heart disease in dogs. Bacterial endocarditis, an infection of the heart valves, can cause significant heart problems if not treated promptly. In some regions, heartworm disease can be another serious condition that can lead to heart failure if not treated. By the time your dog has symptoms, it may be too late to effectively treat them, which is why preventative heartworm medications are so important. Finally, canine parvovirus is another infectious disease that can cause serious heart problems in affected animals. Other medical conditions Medical conditions like hypothyroidism, diabetes , and high blood pressure can contribute to additional strain on the heart in dogs with underlying cardiac issues. Toxins and specific medications Certain chemotherapy drugs and some human medications can wreak havoc on a dog's cardiovascular system. If your dog needs to take medication or receive a treatment (like chemo) that comes with an elevated risk of heart disease, your vet can advise you on the best course of action. The benefits to your dog's quality of life now may outweigh any potential risks. Types of heart diseases in dogs Again, heart disease in dogs can be broadly classified into two categories: congenital heart defects and acquired heart diseases. Congenital heart defects Congenital heart defects are structural abnormalities present at birth. These defects can range from mild to severe and often require early diagnosis and intervention. Common congenital defects include: Acquired heart diseases Acquired heart diseases develop over time and are often related to ageing or other health conditions. Common types include: What are the signs of heart disease in a dog? Many dogs with heart disease will be asymptomatic in the early stages. A problem may only be noticed after a routine examination with your vet, e.g., a vaccination or other health check appointment. Abnormalities like changes in heart rate and rhythm or a murmur can be detected by your vet listening carefully with a stethoscope. While you might not be able to fully cure your dog of heart disease, recognizing the signs of heart failure might make a significant difference in your dog's health and quality of life. Here are some key general signs to watch for: Diagnosing heart disease in dogs An accurate diagnosis is super important for effectively treating and managing heart disease in dogs. Here’s how your vet might pinpoint what your dog's dealing with: Veterinary examination A thorough veterinary examination is the first step in diagnosing heart disease. During the exam, your vet will look for physical signs such as coughing, fatigue, and swelling in your dog's abdomen or limbs. They will use a stethoscope to listen for abnormal heart sounds, such as murmurs or irregular rhythms. They'll also assess your dog's breathing rate and effort to gather additional clues about heart function. Here are some questions your vet might ask you during the visit: It's helpful to come prepared with some general knowledge written down, so you don't have to think too hard while wrangling an anxious pup in the office. Diagnostic tests Once your vet has assessed your pet, they'll likely need to run some tests to confirm a diagnosis (as well as the severity of the disease). Here are a few tests that might come up: Heart disease stages Heart disease in dogs is often classified into stages, which helps your vet and their team determine treatment strategies. It might seem like a lot, but all of these steps are crucial for an accurate diagnosis. How to treat heart disease in dogs Treatment for heart disease in dogs varies based on the type of condition and its severity. Here are some common treatment options: Medications Your vet might prescribe some medications, which help manage heart disease symptoms and improve heart function. These can include: Your vet will determine the appropriate medication based on your dog's specific needs. Diet and exercise A balanced diet and regular, moderate exercise are essential for managing heart disease in dogs. Special diets low in sodium and high in essential nutrients can help support heart health, and your vet might advise you to switch to one. (NOTE: Always consult your vet before making any changes to your dog's diet or exercise routine!) Surgical options In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct structural heart defects or manage severe cases of heart disease. Surgical procedures can include: These surgeries can significantly improve your dog's quality of life and longevity. Your vet will discuss the best surgical options with you based on your dog's condition. Managing a dog with heart disease Daily care for a dog with heart disease is much like what you're already doing as a responsible pet parent: Keep an eye on your dog's symptoms, give medications as prescribed, provide a healthy diet, and keep them appropriately exercised. Regular vet check-ups are also key to keeping track of the disease and making adjustments. Prevention and early detection Preventing heart disease and catching it early can significantly improve your dog's prognosis. Here are some actionable strategies: Preventative measures Early detection Heart disease in dogs can look incredibly challenging, but with the right care and attention, you can help your furry friend continue to live a fulfilling life for as long as possible. And if you're looking to take your preventative pet parenting a step further, look into dog insurance !

Heart disease in dogs: what every owner should know

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