Dogs and Heart Disease-What You Need to Know

Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in dogs, with over half of all dogs over the age of 10 developing some form of the disease. While there are many different types of heart disease that can affect dogs, they all have one thing in common - they are serious, and often life-threatening.

As a dog owner, it's important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of heart disease, as well as the risks factors that can make your dog more likely to develop the condition. With early detection and treatment, many dogs with heart disease can enjoy a good quality of life for several years.

So let's take a look at everything you need to know about heart disease in dogs.

The Different Types of Heart Disease in Dogs

There are many different types of heart disease that can affect dogs, but the most common type is called degenerative valve disease (DVD). This is a condition that gradually destroys the valves in the heart, which leads to thickening of the valves and leakage. DVD usually affects small breed dogs, and is most commonly diagnosed in middle-aged or senior dogs.

Another common type of heart disease in dogs is called dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). This is a condition that causes the chambers of the heart to become enlarged and weakened. As a result, the heart cannot pump blood as efficiently as it should. DCM usually affects large breeds, and is most commonly diagnosed in young or middle-aged dogs.

Risk Factors for Heart Disease in Dogs

There are several risk factors that can make your dog more likely to develop heart disease.

These include:
· Age - older dogs are more at risk
· Gender - male dogs are slightly more at risk than females
· Breed - some breeds are more prone to developing certain types of heart diseases
· Family history - if another dog in your family has had heart disease, your dog may be at an increased risk
· Obesity - being overweight can put strain on your dog's heart and increase their risk
· Poor nutrition - a diet lacking in essential nutrients can weaken your dog's heart muscle

Signs and Symptoms of Heart Disease in Dogs

There are several signs and symptoms that may indicate that your dog has developed heart disease.

These include:
· Coughing
· Shortness of breath/difficulty breathing
· Exercise intolerance/tiring easily
· Lack of appetite/weight loss

Blue gum tissue due to lack oxygenated blood flow
           irregular heartbeat/pulse swift
           distended abdomen filled with fluid Ascites
           swollen limbs/ankles edema
           increased drinking water/urination thirsty

Polyuria/Polydipsia Peeing A Lot
          buoyancy due fluid build lung Pleural Effusion Swimming

Dog posture
           abnormal animal sounds murmur / gallop / arrhythmia abnormal

If you notice any changes in your dog's behavior or appearance that could be associated with heart disease, it's important to see your veterinarian as soon as possible. With early detection and treatment, many dogs withheart disease can enjoy a good quality of life for several years.