How To Care For Your Dog’s Heart Health

If people had hearts like dogs the world would be a better place.” – Author Unknown

Since it’s February, the month we celebrate hearts and sweethearts, I thought it would be a good time to talk about our dog’s heart health…

Just as it is for humans, a healthy heart is critical for your dog’s overall well-being. Heart disease in dogs is a common health concern, especially as they age. Understanding how to support your pup’s cardiovascular health can help them live a longer, happier life. In this post, I’d like to talk about ways to care for your dog’s heart, signs of potential heart problems, and how to work with your veterinarian to ensure your furry friend stays healthy.

Understanding Canine Heart Health

A dog’s heart works similarly to a human’s, pumping oxygen-rich blood throughout the body. When the heart is working properly, your dog has the energy to play, run, and enjoy life. However, heart disease can gradually develop, leading to symptoms that affect their quality of life. The two most common types of heart disease in dogs are:

• Congenital heart disease – A condition a dog is born with, though it is relatively rare.
• Acquired heart disease – A condition that develops over time due to aging, infections, or other underlying health issues.
  • The most common acquired heart disease is mitral valve disease (MVD), which affects small breeds, while dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is more common in large breeds.

Signs of Heart Disease in Dogs

Heart disease can be difficult to detect early because symptoms may develop slowly. However, some common signs to watch for include:

• Persistent coughing, especially at night
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Fatigue or reluctance to exercise
• Fainting or collapsing
• Swollen abdomen due to fluid buildup
• Unexplained weight loss or decreased appetite

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a vet visit immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve your dog’s quality of life and slow the progression of heart disease.

Tips for Keeping Your Dog’s Heart Healthy

While some forms of heart disease are unavoidable, there are many ways to help keep your dog’s heart in good condition.

1. Serve a Heart-Healthy Diet – Nutrition plays an important role in your dog’s heart health. Look for high-quality dog food that contains:
   • Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish oil) to reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular function
   • Taurine and L-carnitine, amino acids essential for heart muscle health
   • Low sodium to prevent excess fluid retention, which can strain the heart
   • Lean proteins to maintain muscle mass
   • Ask your veterinarian about heart-friendly diets, especially if your dog is at risk for heart disease.
2. Maintain a Healthy Weight – Letting your dog become overweight puts extra strain on his heart, which increases the risk of heart disease. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight through proper diet and portion control is crucial. If your dog is overweight, work with your vet to develop a weight management plan.
3. Ensure Regular Exercise – Moderate exercise helps keep your dog’s heart strong.
   • Activities such as walking, swimming, and playtime encourage cardiovascular fitness.
     • However, if your dog already has heart disease, consult your vet to determine an appropriate level of activity.
4. Schedule Regular Vet Checkups – Routine veterinary visits help detect heart problems early.
   • Your vet may recommend regular heart screenings, blood pressure checks, or echocardiograms, especially for breeds prone to heart disease.
5. Prevent Heartworm Disease – Heartworms are parasites that live in the heart and lungs, and lead to serious cardiovascular damage.
   • Since heartworm disease is transmitted through mosquito bites, year-round preventive medication is essential.
6. Minimize Stress – Chronic stress can negatively impact heart health.
   • Provide a calm, stable environment for your dog, and avoid exposing him to unnecessary anxiety.

Breeds Prone to Heart Disease

While any dog can develop heart problems, some breeds are more predisposed, including:

• Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (prone to MVD)
• Doberman Pinschers (prone to DCM)
• Boxers (prone to arrhythmias and cardiomyopathy)
• Miniature Schnauzers
• Great Danes

If you have a breed at higher risk, proactive heart care is even more necessary.

Here’s to a long life…

Caring for your dog’s heart is an essential part of your responsible pet ownership. By providing a balanced diet, regular exercise, preventive care, and routine vet checkups, you can help your pup enjoy a heart-healthy life. Stay attentive to any signs of heart disease and work closely with your veterinarian to ensure the best possible care for your furry friend. A little proactive effort can make a big difference in your dog’s happy, healthy life!

At BowWow Fun Towne…

Dogs are our business, and our friends, and we understand how important your dog is to you.