In dogs, the most common causes of heart disease include improper valve closure and ineffective pumping. While both of these heart conditions can lead to congestive heart failure, early detection and treatment of heart conditions can help prolong and improve the quality of your dog's life. In some dogs the signs of a heart condition may be subtle and are often passed off as normal signs of aging, so learning what to look for is important.
Murmurs and Arrhythmias
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Heart murmurs are an extra or unusual sound heard by your veterinarian when he listens to your dog's heart. Murmurs can be a sign of heart valve problems. Arrhythmias are rapid or irregular heartbeats and often indicate problems with the effective pumping of blood by the heart.
Respiratory Problems
Respiratory symptoms of a heart condition may include shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, coughing and wheezing. You may notice these symptoms increase after exercise or strenuous activity. Breathing difficulty may disrupt your dog's normal sleeping patterns, resulting in increased fatigue.
Behavioral Changes
Some changes in behavior may indicate a heart condition as well. Your once active and loving dog may seem reluctant to exercise, play or even go out for a short walk. He may pass on a cuddling session with you and prefer to be alone. He may isolate himself from other animals and people, appearing depressed.
Dietary Changes
While your dog used to eat up his bowl of food, you may notice now that his appetite has disappeared. He may refuse treats and bones. You may notice extreme weight loss. One the other hand, you may notice abdominal swelling. This can occur due to increased pressure in the veins that drain into the abdominal cavity. This increases fluid retention in the abdomen.
Predispositions
Because many of these signs can also be seen with normal aging, it is important to check with your veterinarian to rule out any heart problems. Specific breeds are predisposed to heart conditions and require closer monitoring. Higher risks for heart valve malfunctioning appear in Boston terriers, Cavalier King Charles spaniels, Chihuahuas, fox terriers, miniature pinschers, poodles, Pekingese, Pomeranians and whippets. Ineffective pumping risks are more common in Doberman pinschers, Great Danes, Afghan hounds, boxers, cocker spaniels, Dalmatians, Irish wolfhounds, Newfoundlands, Saint Bernards and Scottish deerhounds.
By Deborah Lundin
References
petMD: Top Ten Signs of Heart Disease in Dogs
California Veterinarian: Diagnosing Heart Disease and Failure in Dogs
YourDogsHeart.com: Your Dog Could Be at Risk for Heart Disease [PDF]
YourDogsHeart.com: Heart Disease Symptoms
About the Author
Deborah Lundin is a professional writer with more than 20 years of experience in the medical field and as a small business owner. She studied medical science and sociology at Northern Illinois University. Her passions and interests include fitness, health, healthy eating, children and pets.
Always check with your veterinarian before changing your pet’s diet, medication, or physical activity routines. This information is not a substitute for a vet’s opinion.