No matter your dog’s size, he has a big heart. He has a personality all his own, he is a loyal companion and seems to know when you need a good laugh. But this same heart can be at risk for heart disease. Heart disease is a common unfortunate but tolerable problem in dogs just like in people.
The heart is the most important organ in your dog’s body. It pumps blood containing oxygen and nutrients through the blood vessels to the cells of the body. Most heart conditions involve a decrease in the effective pumping of blood. This can lead to a buildup of fluid in the chest and abdomen.
Heart diseases in dogs can rarely be congenital (present from birth) like Congestive Heart Failure, Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy and Pulmonary Stenosis. It is mostly acquired after birth like Canine Valvular Disease, Arrythmias and Pericardial disease.
What causes heart disease? Although there is no single cause, nutritional problems can play a major role in heart conditions. Aging is the most common reason dogs develop heart conditions, but other factors like heartworm can also lead to heart disease. Overweight dogs are more likely to develop heart disease. Chronic valvular disease is more common in small breeds such as Miniature Poodles, Cocker Spaniels, Pomeranians and Schnauzers. Myocardial disease is more common in large and giant breeds like Great Danes and Irish Wolfhounds.
Signs and Symptoms can vary and include: dry cough that follows physical activity or intensifies at night, sometimes lead to gagging; shortness of breath or elevated breathing; restlessness when sleeping; rapid weight loss (over just a few weeks); fainting – which can look like a seizure; potbelly caused by fluid buildup; rapid tiring or fatigue.
Diagnosis and treatment should be immediate with a qualified veterinarian who has a proper clinic with all diagnostic tools. Diagnosis of heart disease is made on the basis of clinical examinations, routine blood tests and radiographic examinations. A stethoscope exam can reveal murmurs and fluid in the lungs and palpation can reveal unusual pulses. Although treatments cannot reverse heart disease, your dog can live a relatively normal life. The food your dog eats plays an important role in his overall health and wellbeing. When your dog has been diagnosed with a heart condition, it’s even more important to feed the right dog food. Feeding dogs low-sodium food will help reduce fluid buildup and make it easier for their hearts to work effectively. Make sure to limit strenuous activity and carefully monitor your pooch afterwards.
It is important to have regular check-ups once or twice yearly to evaluate your dog’s progress. By adhering to professional advice of your veterinarian, and with your own careful attention, your pet can often live a long and comfortable life.
