What is heart disease?

Heart disease refers to any condition that impairs the heart’s ability to circulate blood through the body. Most dogs acquire heart disease over time, although congenital heart disease is present from birth. Heart disease includes dysfunctional heart valves (e.g., mitral valve disease), heart enlargement (i.e., dilated cardiomyopathy), and arrhythmias from abnormal electrical impulses in the heart. Congestive heart failure (CHF) occurs when heart function becomes so compromised that fluid accumulates in the lungs, thorax, or abdomen.

What are common heart disease signs in dogs?

Early signs include:

• Abnormal heart sounds noticed by your veterinarian

In many cases, no signs are observed in the early disease stage.

Intermediate to advanced signs include:

• Cough

• Exercise intolerance

• Decreased appetite and weight loss

• Difficulty breathing or getting comfortable

• Abdominal distension

• Fainting

• Sudden death

How is heart disease managed in dogs? 

Heart disease management is based on the type of disease process, and sign severity. Treatment options include a prescription diet, and medications to enhance heart muscle contraction, dilate blood vessels, reduce excess fluid accumulation, and regulate heart rhythm. Dogs with CHF need consistent medical treatment and vigilant monitoring. Discussing a personalized management plan with your veterinarian, and a veterinary cardiologist, is important for the best outcome for your dog.

What is the prognosis for dogs with heart disease?

The presence of heart disease does not mean that CHF is imminent. Many dogs with mild mitral valve disease can live a normal life, and dogs diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy in early stages can live several years before developing clinical signs. However, if heart disease progresses to CHF, intensive medical management may provide a good quality of life for only a few months to a year. 

Management tips for dogs with heart disease  

At-home needs include:

• Easily accessible food and water, and a comfortable location

• Consistency with diet and medications

• Monitoring resting respiratory rate, coughing, appetite, drinking, and urination

• Watching for signs of worsening disease

• Avoiding strenuous exercise, if directed by your veterinarian 

In a crisis situation:

• Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog stops eating or coughs more; has abnormal gum color, difficulty breathing, or a distended abdomen; or collapses.