Heart disease is an umbrella term for several different conditions affecting the heart. While some problems are caused by old age, others are hereditary. This includes valve disease in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels or dilated cardiomyopathy in Dobermanns.

THE MOST COMMON HEART CONDITIONS INCLUDE:

• VALVE DISEASE – Once the valve between the ventricle and the atrium is distorted, blood leaks and the heart works harder to pump more blood resulting in an ineffective enlarged heart.
• CONGENITAL PROBLEMS – Congenital heart problems include abnormal blood vessels around the heart and an incomplete separation between the chambers.
• INFECTION – Bacterial or parasitic infections such as heartworms can cause heartworm disease, known as Dirofilariasis, and is potentially fatal for dogs.
• CARDIOMYOPATH – This disease of the heart muscle is characterized by an enlarged heart that no longer functions properly.

Coronary artery disease is rare in canines, and the signs of heart attack in dogs are difficult to identify because they appear differently than a human heart attack.

n the early stages, a heart problem may be heard as a heart murmur or a subtle change in heart rhythm. But often dogs show no symptoms whatsoever. Nevertheless, early detection is crucial as early treatment increases life expectancy.

Once a dog’s heart starts struggling, the following signs appear including:

• Lack of energy
• Heavy panting at rest
• Reduced appetite
• Coughing
• Fainting episodes
• Swollen belly
• Weight loss

If you see any of these symptoms, be sure to have your dog checked by a veterinarian immediately.