Have you ever listened to our dog cough and wondered if it’s just a little tickle or a sign of something far more serious? As loving dog parents, we want the best for our pups. This means we’re constantly on the lookout for trouble, which can sometimes make us a little overly cautious. But when it comes to understanding the early signs of heart disease in dogs, that diligence could save a life.Early detection allows you and your veterinarian to address the problem sooner, potentially slowing the progression of the disease and giving your best friend many more happy, healthy years by your side.I understand that the thought of heart disease can be daunting, but knowledge is power! This post will guide you through the information you need to be your dog’s best advocate, including the most common types of heart conditions, early warning signs to watch out for, how heart disease is diagnosed and treated, and most importantly, the proactive steps you can take to support your dog’s heart health and prevent a problem before it starts. Common Types of Canine Heart Disease Just like humans, dogs can develop different heart conditions and heart-related illnesses, each with unique challenges and care needs. This ranges from congenital defects that were present at birth to acquired diseases that develop over time (although possibly preventable), negatively impacting the heart’s ability to function correctly. Here are some of the most common types of heart disease your dog may experience: Mitral Valve Disease (MVD)One of the most common heart-related illnesses that dogs may experience is Mitral Valve Disease (MVD), a degenerative condition that affects the heart valve that separates the left atrium and left ventricle (aka the mitral valve). This valve’s job is to prevent blood from flowing backward, keeping blood flow in the body moving as it should. As the valve deteriorates, it may start to leak, allowing blood to flow back into the atrium. Some small breed dogs are at a higher risk of developing MVD, especially as they get older. This includes Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Dachshunds, and Chihuahuas. Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)Another significant heart condition in dogs that has been gaining attention lately is Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM). This occurs when the heart muscle weakens and becomes enlarged, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood effectively. It has been in the news a lot in recent years as researchers evaluate the potential links between DCM and your dog’s diet. While it was once believed that grain-free diets increased the risk, it was later found that there was no clear link between the two. In fact, many grain-free diets were found to have no link to heart problems at all. New research now focuses less on the absence of grains and more on the ingredients used to replace them. This condition is more commonly seen in large and giant breed dogs, such as Doberman Pinschers, Boxers, and Irish Wolfhounds. Congenital Heart DefectsPresent from birth, congenital heart defects can range from minor to life-threatening. The term is used to describe abnormalities in the heart’s structure, such as holes in the heart or abnormal blood vessel connections. Early detection is crucial for these conditions as some can be corrected with surgery or other interventions, while others require ongoing management. Heartworm Disease Unlike the other conditions on the list, heartworm disease isn’t caused by issues with the heart itself. This parasitic infection occurs when worms live in the heart and lungs, dramatically impacting their ability to function effectively. Heartworm disease is transmitted by mosquitoes. While it would be nearly impossible to keep your dog mosquito-free throughout their entire life, there are preventative medications that will protect them against heartworms. This is crucial for your dog’s health and well-being, as the worms can cause severe and life-threatening damage to the heart, lungs, and blood vessels, resulting in heart failure and death. Early Warnings Signs: What to Look or As I mentioned, recognizing the early signs of heart disease is key for early diagnosis and timely intervention. The sooner your dog receives the necessary veterinary care, the better their prognosis in most cases. Unfortunately, many of these warning signs are subtle and easily overlooked.Changes in Breathing One of the most common early warning signs is a change in your dog’s breathing patterns. This could include an increased respiratory rate (tachypnea) or difficulty breathing (dyspnea). To measure your dog’s respiratory rate, count the breaths they take in one minute while resting. A normal resting respiratory rate for a healthy adult dog is between 10 and 30 breaths per minute. If your dog’s rate is consistently faster than this, especially at rest, it’s a sign that something is medically wrong, and you need to contact your veterinarian. Difficulty breathing is always a red flag. This can manifest as panting excessively, especially when resting, flared nostrils, or abdominal breathing (where the abdomen moves significantly with every breath). Even if your dog’s difficulty breathing isn’t caused by heart-related issues, it is a medical emergency. A persistent cough, especially one that sounds wet or hacking, can also be a sign of trouble. A cardiac cough is often worse at night or after any physical activity, as fluid builds up in the lungs, making the issue worse. Of course, not all coughs are connected to heart issues. But if your dog’s cough is persistent and doesn’t go away, you should make an appointment to get to the root of the problem. Becoming Easily Tired or Lethargic Have you recently noticed your dog is becoming tired much easier after physical activity? Are they showing less enthusiasm for activities or play that they once enjoyed? As the heart struggles to keep up with the demands of your dog’s body, failing to pump oxygenated blood efficiently, it can decrease their stamina. They may be reluctant to play or even go for walks. In the most severe cases, a dog may faint or collapse after minimal activity.
