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Your Dog’s Wellness: A Healthy Heart = A Happy Heart

February 1st, 2025

Did you know that the love of a pet is incredibly powerful? Just being around a dog can lower your blood pressure! That’s just one of the many ways they keep our hearts healthy. Their playful walks keep us active, and their constant companionship helps us feel less lonely. With their big, loving hearts, dogs help keep our human hearts strong and happy.

As we celebrate the month of love with Valentine’s Day in the spotlight, let’s not forget that February 20th is also National Love Your Pet Day! It’s the perfect time for dog owners to learn why heart health matters for our furry friends, recognize common heart issues, and discover how to keep your dog’s ticker—well…. ticking strongly! Just as our dogs care for our hearts, it’s essential that we take care of theirs too.

 

Just like humans, dogs can suffer from heart-related issues that can affect their quality of life. Heart disease is one of the leading causes of illness and death in dogs, making it important for pet owners to be on the lookout for signs and know when to head to the vet.

This National Love Your Pet Day, show your dog some extra love by taking steps to learn about heart health. After all, a healthy dog means more joyful moments and cherished memories together! 

What Types of Heart Disease Happens in Dogs?

Dogs can either be born with heart issues, known as congenital abnormalities or develop age-related degenerative heart diseases. While these conditions are more common in certain breeds, they can affect any type of dog. Here’s a list of different kinds of heart diseases:

Mitral valve disease

The most common heart problem in dogs is a degenerative condition affecting the gate between the two left heart chambers that can lead to heart failure.

Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)

A condition where the heart cannot pump blood efficiently, leading to fluid buildup in the lungs and other parts of the body.

Heartworm Disease

Caused by parasitic worms transmitted through mosquito bites, heartworm disease can severely damage a dog’s heart, lungs, and arteries.

Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)

A disease where the heart becomes enlarged and cannot pump blood effectively, it is commonly seen in large and giant breed dogs.

 

What Are Common Signs of Heart Disease in Dogs?

As the loving dog owner you are, their health is always top of mind. But sometimes regardless of the precautions you take heart disease of all types may develop without warning – it can appear even with all your healthy efforts. And because our pet pal can’t express how they are feeling it up to us to tune into some signs. 

Coughing: Persistent coughing, especially at night or after an activity, can occur for a couple of medical reasons. In some dogs, fluid can accumulate in the lungs when the heart does not pump efficiently, and this backup of blood in the lungs can result in fluid accumulating in lung tissue. The other reason could be heart enlargement, which can put pressure on the airways and stimulate coughing. A veterinarian should check any persistent cough that lasts more than a few days.

Difficulty Breathing:  Dogs with fluid in their lungs or heart disease often will have difficulty or rapid breathing. Dogs with severe heart disease have more trouble breathing when lying down and will often sit or stand for long periods of time.

Fatigue: If you suddenly find your dog is not hyped about their walk or playing this could be another sign. You also may find they tire out more quickly on walks and during exercise and are getting in more ZZ’s then usual.

Fainting or Collapse:  When the heart is not functioning properly, critical organs such as the brain might be deprived of nutrition, particularly oxygen. Blood flow to the brain can be impaired  in dogs with heart disease, resulting in fainting or collapse, and often occurs during exercise.

Swelling: Excess fluid buildup can cause swelling in the abdomen, legs, or other parts of the body.

Behavior Changes: Some other things to look at based on your dog’s routine is poor appetite, isolation and a reluctance to play or engage in your normal fun activities. 

 

Heart Health Love Advice!

1. Regular Exercise

Consistent, moderate exercise helps keep your dog’s heart strong and efficient. Activities such as daily walks and playtime are excellent for cardiovascular health. Avoid overexertion, especially in older dogs or those with existing heart conditions.

2. Balanced Diet

A nutritious diet is fundamental to maintaining a healthy heart. Here are some things to add to their diet or double-check that they’re part of their current kibble!

  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These are found in fish oil, and help reduce inflammation and support heart health.
  • Antioxidants: Vitamins C and E, as well as other antioxidants, help protect the heart from damage. 
  • Low Sodium: Excess salt can lead to high blood pressure, which strains the heart.

Love note: Always consult your veterinarian to choose a diet that meets your dog’s specific needs, especially if they are prone to heart issues.

3. Weight Management

Helping your dog maintain a healthy weight reduces the strain on your dog’s heart. Obesity can lead to various health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and joint problems. Keep an eye on your dog’s weight and adjust their diet and exercise routine as needed.

4. Routine Veterinary Check-ups

Annual exams also give vets the opportunity to pick up heart disease symptoms, such as a heart murmur or irregular heartbeat. Catching it early is key!

Testing for heart disease in dogs typically involves listening to the heart and lungs through Physical Examinations, blood tests, and imaging tests, like X-rays.

5. Prevent Heartworm Disease

Your dog should get regular heartworm preventatives, either chewable, topical, or injected, as prescribed by your veterinarian. You can also reduce your dog’s exposure to mosquitoes by keeping them indoors during peak mosquito activity times.

6. Manage Stress

Chronic stress might harm your dog’s heart health. Create a peaceful and secure atmosphere, provide plenty of mental stimulation, and make your dog feel safe and loved. Simple activities such as all those cuddles, grooming, and interactive play can help alleviate tension.

7. A Little Love Gift

And in honor of the month of love, how about some extra attention with these Valentine’s Ideas!

You’ve got the greatest love connection with your furry bestie so you’re their biggest advocate for a healthy heart! Attention to this important heart education is what will help keep your dog active, energetic, and happy. And that’s the most loving gesture you can do as a dog owner!