If you’re worried about your dog’s heart health, you’re not alone. Symptoms of heart disease include coughing, lack of energy, and trouble breathing. If you suspect your dog might suffer from heart disease or if they have already received a diagnosis, knowing what you're dealing with is crucial.

At Pure Peak, we know the toll that heart disease can take on your dog’s quality of life, and we want to help. Our natural dog supplements, in combination with a proper diet and other treatments, can help support your dog’s heart health. Today, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about heart disease in dogs, from recognizing the symptoms to exploring treatment options.

Can Dogs Get Heart Disease?

Unfortunately, dogs can get heart disease, just like humans. It’s a common condition that affects many dogs, especially as they age.

Heart disease in dogs can stem from many factors, including genetics, age, and lifestyle. One of the first signs of heart disease in dogs is often a persistent cough. You might also notice your dog becoming more tired than usual, struggling to breathe, or even fainting. These symptoms can be scary, but early detection can make a big difference in managing the disease.

If left untreated, heart disease can lead to severe complications. It can also reduce your dog’s quality of life and even shorten its lifespan. Regular vet check-ups and awareness of the signs can help catch heart disease early, giving your dog a better chance of a healthy life.

What Causes Heart Disease in Dogs?

Heart disease in dogs can result from various factors, and knowing these risk factors can help you take better care of your furry friend. Here are some common causes:

  • Genetics: Just like people, dogs can inherit heart disease from their parents. Certain breeds, like Boxers, Doberman Pinschers, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, are more prone to heart conditions due to their genetic makeup.
  • Age: As dogs age, their risk of developing heart disease increases. The heart can weaken over time, making older dogs more susceptible to heart problems.
  • Obesity: Overweight dogs’ hearts must work harder to circulate blood, causing extra strain. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise can help reduce this risk.
  • Infections: Some heart diseases, such as heartworm, are transmitted to dogs through the bite of a mosquito carrying the organism that causes heartworm. Heartworms cause severe damage to the heart and lungs without proper treatment.
  • Poor Diet: A diet lacking essential nutrients can lead to heart problems. A lack of grain in a dog’s diet for example has been proven to cause dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Ensure that your dog gets a balanced diet with the right nutrients to support their heart health.

Types of Heart Disease in Dogs

Heart disease in dogs can manifest in various forms, each affecting the heart in different ways. Knowing the types of heart disease can help you better understand what your dog might be facing and how to manage it. Here are some common types:

  • Congenital Heart Disease: This type of heart disease in dogs presents at birth and results from defects in the heart’s structure. Common congenital conditions include patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and aortic and pulmonic stenosis. These defects can cause abnormal blood flow, leading to heart problems.
  • Valvular Heart Disease: This condition occurs when the heart’s valves become degenerated, leading to conditions like mitral valve disease. Mitral valve disease is most common in older, small-breed dogs. The damaged valves can cause blood to leak backward, making the heart work harder to pump blood throughout the body. In later, more severe stages, valvular heart disease can lead to congestive heart failure.
  • Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM): In DCM, the heart muscle becomes weak and enlarged, leading to poor blood circulation. This type is more common in large-breed dogs like Dobermans and Boxers. It can lead to congestive heart failure if not treated.
  • Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): This rare condition causes the heart muscle to thicken, making it harder for the heart to pump blood. HCM is more common in cats but can also occur in dogs.
  • Heartworm Disease: Mosquito bites transmit parasitic larvae to dogs that then develop into adult worms that cause heartworm disease in dogs. These adult worms obstruct blood flow and damage the heart and lungs, leading to heart failure and difficulty breathing. Preventing heartworm disease with monthly medications and regular vet check-ups is easier and safer than treating it after infection.

Signs of Heart Disease in Dogs

What are the early signs of heart disease in dogs? Recognizing the signs of heart disease in dogs early can make a big difference in managing the condition and improving your pet’s quality of life. Here are some common signs to watch for:

  • Coughing: Persistent coughing, especially at night or after exercise, can be a sign of heart disease. This happens because fluid builds up in the lungs or due to an enlarged heart pressing on the airways.
  • Difficulty Breathing: Labored or rapid breathing can indicate heart disease. This difficult breathing occurs when the heart struggles to pump blood efficiently, causing fluid to accumulate in the lungs, a condition known as pulmonary edema.
  • Fatigue and Weakness: Dogs with heart disease may tire easily and show a lack of interest in activities they used to enjoy. This fatigue is due to poor blood circulation, which means less oxygen reaches the muscles.
  • Fainting or Collapsing: Episodes of fainting or collapsing can occur if the heart isn’t pumping enough blood to the brain. This can be a sign of serious heart conditions like dilated cardiomyopathy or advanced valvular disease.
  • Swollen Abdomen: A swollen or bloated abdomen, known as ascites, can result from fluid accumulation due to heart failure. The heart’s inability to pump blood effectively causes fluid to leak into the abdomen.
  • Weight Loss or Poor Appetite: Dogs with heart disease may lose weight or have a reduced appetite. This can happen because of decreased energy levels or discomfort caused by the disease.
  • Restlessness and Behavior Changes: Heart disease can cause discomfort and anxiety, leading to restlessness and changes in behavior. You might notice your dog pacing or having difficulty settling down, especially at night.

How to Prevent Heart Disease in Dogs

Preventing heart disease in dogs involves a combination of healthy lifestyle choices and regular veterinary care. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight is crucial. Ensure that they get regular exercise tailored to their breed and age.
Additionally, a balanced diet with the right nutrients supports overall heart health. Choose high-quality dog food and consult your vet for specific dietary recommendations.

Regular vet check-ups are also essential for early detection of potential heart issues. Your vet can monitor your dog’s heart health and catch any problems before they become serious. Preventive medications, like those for heartworms, are vital to protect against parasites that can cause heart disease.

Additionally, avoid exposing your dog to secondhand smoke, which can negatively impact their heart and lungs. Providing a stress-free environment and plenty of love and attention also contributes to their overall well-being. By taking these steps, you can help your dog enjoy a long, healthy life with a strong heart.

How to Treat Heart Disease in Dogs

Treating heart disease in dogs requires a comprehensive approach tailored to the specific type of disease and the severity of the condition. Here are some common treatment options:

  • Medications: Vets often prescribe medications to help manage heart disease. These can include diuretics to reduce fluid buildup, ACE inhibitors to lower blood pressure, and beta-blockers to regulate heart rate.
  • Dietary Changes: A heart-healthy diet is crucial for dogs with heart disease. Low-sodium diets can help reduce fluid retention, and special veterinary diets are available to support heart function.
  • Exercise Management: Controlled, moderate exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and improve overall heart health. However, it’s important to follow your vet’s recommendations on the appropriate level of activity for your dog.
  • Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct heart defects or remove blockages. This is usually considered when other treatments are not sufficient.

Heart Disease in Dogs FAQs

Heart disease in dogs can raise many questions for concerned pet owners. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers:

Can heart disease in dogs be cured?

There is no cure for heart disease in dogs, but you can manage your dog’s condition with proper treatment. Early diagnostic testing and consistent care can significantly improve your dog’s quality of life and extend their lifespan.

Is heart disease in dogs contagious?

Not exactly, heart disease itself in dogs is not contagious. Mosquito bites, which can spread heartworm disease leading to heart problems, can affect multiple dogs in the same area as a mosquito obtains the larvae that cause heartworm from consuming blood from a heartworm-infected dog.

Can supplements help prevent heart disease in dogs?

Certain supplements can support heart health in dogs. Omega-3 fatty acids, taurine, and other heart-healthy nutrients can be beneficial. Always consult your vet before adding any supplements to your dog’s diet.