Heart disease is a common condition in dogs that needs to be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible. In this article, our Fountain Valley vets discuss heart disease in dogs and how you can best prevent it.
Heart Disease in Dogs
Heart disease is a common problem found in dogs as it is in people, and can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions. These conditions can include heart valve degeneration, irregular heart rate and rhythm (arrhythmia), and heart muscle disease. Despite the many types of heart diseases affecting dogs, most show similar, common signs that can let their owner know that something is wrong.
Common Signs of Heart Disease
The signs of heart disease in dogs are very similar to those in people. The main difference is of course that our four-legged friends can't tell us how they are feeling, so it's up to us to spot the signs early and get our pets the urgent veterinary care they need.
If your dog is showing any of the symptoms below, contact your vet right away as your pup's scenario may warrant an emergency.
Breathing Difficulties
- Breathing difficulties and increased rate of breathing are both signs that your dog may be suffering from heart disease. Whenever your pet experiences difficulties breathing urgent veterinary care is required.
Persistent Cough
- Your dog could develop a persistent cough if heart disease leads to a buildup of fluid in your pup's lungs. If your dog has a cough that doesn't clear up in a couple of days contact your vet to schedule an examination for your pooch.
Fainting or Collapse
- Often triggered by a persistent cough or exercise, fainting or collapse can occur in dogs suffering from heart disease due to a lack of blood flow to the brain. It's important to note that in some cases, fainting can look like a seizure. Contact your vet immediately if your dog collapses or faints.
Uncharacteristic Behaviors
- If your dog's personality changes for no apparent reason something is amiss. A change in demeanor, appetite, or enthusiasm could all indicate that your dog's heart isn't working as it should. Contact your vet to book an appointment.
Reluctance to Exercise, Play or Climb Stairs
- Dogs with heart disease will feel weaker than healthy dogs and typically tire out much more easily. If your dog used to have boundless energy but is now showing signs of fatigue, weakness, or reluctance to exercise, heart disease could be the reason.
Abdominal Swelling
- The appearance of a pot belly caused by abdominal fluid build-up could be an indication that your dog has heart disease. If your dog develops a pot belly schedule an appointment with your vet right away.
Blue Tinge to the Skin
- When the heart is not working as it should, a lack of oxygen in the blood can occur and result in a bluish tinge to the skin. If you notice that your dog's skin has developed an unusual tinge, either bluish or yellowish (jaundice) veterinary care is essential.
Diagnosing Heart Disease in Dogs
Early signs of internal medicine conditions such as heart disease in dogs can often be spotted by vets during a pet's routine wellness exam. These routine pet checkups are designed specifically to check for signs of developing conditions so that treatment can begin in the earliest stages when it is most effective.
If your vet believes that your dog is suffering from heart disease they may recommend diagnostic testing such as X-rays, cardiac evaluation, electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, cardiac catheterization, or blood and urine tests.
Treatment of Heart Disease in Dogs
Treating heart disease in dogs depends on the underlying cause of the disease. Heart disease can be caused by several things including birth defects, heartworm infection, other bacteria or viral infections, toxins, mineral deficiencies, and tumors. Once heart disease is diagnosed, a treatment plan specific to the type of heart disease your dog has will be discussed.
Many types of heart disease require life-long monitoring with frequent diagnostic testing and medications. Some heart diseases, such as congenital defects, can be corrected by surgery.
Preventing Heart Disease in Dogs
Heart disease can be difficult to prevent. Sometimes you can do everything right and your dog could still be diagnosed with heart disease.
That said, there are a few things you can do to help reduce your pup's risk of heart disease, including:
- Helping your dog maintain a healthy weight
- Avoiding exposure to toxins and contaminated areas
- Keeping your dog on preventive heartworm medication
- Feeding your dog quality dog food—you can discuss with your vet the best diet for your particular dog
- Ensuring that your dog gets the right level of daily exercise for their age, breed, and size
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet for an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition.