No matter your dog's size, he has a big heart - metaphorically speaking, of course. He has a personality all his own, he is a loyal companion and seems to know when you need a good laugh. But this same heart can be at risk for heart disease, an abnormal enlargement of his heart.
What is heart disease and heart conditions in dogs?
Heart disease is an unfortunate but tolerable condition for your dog. The heart is the most important organ in your dog’s body. It pumps blood containing oxygen and nutrients through the blood vessels to the cells of the body. Most heart conditions involve a decrease in the effective pumping of blood. This can lead to a buildup of fluid in the chest and abdomen. There are two main types of heart conditions: one affecting the heart valve and the other the heart muscle. Dogs with either type can be successfully managed through nutrition, exercise and, if necessary, medication. With the right dog food and advice from your veterinarian, your dog can continue to enjoy a happy, active life.
The two main heart conditions
Chronic Valvular Disease: A leaking heart valve reduces the quantity of blood that can be pumped around the body.
Myocardial Disease: In this condition, weakness or thickening of the heart muscle results in the heart pumping less efficiently.
What causes heart disease?
Although there is no single cause, nutritional problems can play a major role in heart conditions. Aging is the most common reason dogs develop heart conditions, but other factors like heartworm can also lead to heart disease. Other factors that can contribute include:
Body condition: Overweight dogs are more likely to develop heart disease.
Age: Heart conditions in dogs occur more frequently with increasing age.
Breed: In dogs, chronic valvular disease is more common in small breeds such as miniature poodles, cocker spaniels, Pomeranians and schnauzers. Myocardial disease is more common in large and giant breeds like Great Danes and Irish wolfhounds.
Tasty Tips
Does my dog have a heart condition?
It can be difficult to tell if your dog has a heart condition because the signs can be similar to those of other dog diseases. Your veterinarian may check for heart disease using some of the following methods.
- A stethoscope exam can reveal murmurs and fluid in the lungs
- Palpation can reveal unusual pulses
- X-rays reveal heart enlargement
- An EKG can identify heart enlargement and irregular rhythms
- Blood and urine tests can reveal heartworms and the condition of other internal organs
The following symptoms may indicate a heart problem in your dog.
- Tired, lack of energy
- Fainting or collapsing
- Frequent coughing. In some cases, a low-pitched cough that sometimes leads to gagging
- Breathing difficulties that include shortness of breath
- Reduced ability to exercise
- Reduced appetite and/or noticeable weight gain or loss
- Swelling in the abdomen
IMPORTANT: A heart condition may not be obvious in the early stages. If you are in any doubt about your dog’s health, consult your veterinarian.
Treatment: The importance of nutrition
Although treatments cannot reverse heart disease, your dog can live a relatively normal life. The food your dog eats plays an important role in his overall health and well-being. When your dog has been diagnosed with a heart condition, it’s even more important to feed the right dog food.
Heart disease typically causes the heart to enlarge, and this enlargement causes a loss of efficiency. The heart then begins to hold more fluid than it should and this is where the real problems begin. For this reason, veterinarians recommend feeding dogs a low-sodium food that will help reduce fluid build-up and make it easier for their hearts to work effectively.
For accurate diagnosis and treatment options, always consult your veterinarian and ask them to recommend the best food for your dog’s heart health.
Ask Your Veterinarian About Heart Disease:
- Are there any foods I should avoid giving my dog because of his condition?
- Ask how human food can affect your dog’s health.
- Would you recommend a Hill’s® Prescription Diet® dog food for my dog’s heart health?
- Ask about special nutritional concerns for your dog
- How much / how often you should feed the recommended food to your dog
- Discuss which treats you can feed your dog with the recommended food
- How quickly should I expect to see signs of improvement in my dog’s condition?
- Can you provide me with written instructions or a booklet on heart disease for my dog?
- What is the best way (email/phone) to reach you or your hospital if I have questions?
- Ask if you need a follow-up appointment.
- Ask if a reminder email or notice will be sent.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports lean muscle and beautiful coat for adult dogs
Hill's Science Diet Perfect Digestion Large Breed Chicken, Brown Rice & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome. Delicious food in a large bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult Savory Stew with Beef & Vegetables Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet dry dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Small & Mini Chicken Meal & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Vegetable Stew Dog Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Pollock Meal & Insect Recipe Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Chicken & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Supports lean muscle and beautiful coat for adult dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Savory Stew with Chicken & Vegetables Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small & Mini dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Perfect Digestion Small Bites Chicken, Whole Oats & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for dogs age 7+. Delicious food in a small bite size
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Chicken & Rice Stew
Chicken & Rice Stew with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small & Mini Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small & Mini dry dog food is tailored nutrition for Small & Mini dogs while being gentle on stomachs. Nourishes skin & promotes a lustrous coat.
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Vegetable Stew
Gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & supporting development in growing puppies
Hill's Science Diet Puppy No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Supports healthy brain, eye, muscle, bone & immune system development in growing puppies
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health, tailored for unique needs of Small and Mini puppies
Hill's Science Diet Perfect Digestion Small Bites Chicken, Brown Rice & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome. Delicious food in a small bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Turkey & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Turkey & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep dogs active and healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Large Breed Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition. Delicious food in a large bite size.
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Entrée Can Variety Pack Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Adult 11+ Small & Mini Chicken, Brown Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini Dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Related articles
Do I Have Time for a Dog?
For potential first-time dog owners, learn whether you realistically have time for a dog and what a typical day may look like with a new pup.
Safe Dog Biscuits to Share with Your Pup
You love your dog, and you want to spoil him with treats all year round without compromising his health. What are the best safe dog biscuits?
Are Dogs Really Color Blind?
Are you wondering if dogs really are color blind? Get the scoop on which colors your dog can actually see and which ones should catch his attention.
Identifying & Preventing Separation Anxiety in Your Dog
Learn how to spot separation anxiety in dogs, what you can do to help with his stress, and ways to prevent anxiety in the first place.
Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Dog Poop
Your guide to healthy dog poop and signs to watch out for that could indicate a health concern.
Common Health Issues in Puppies
While vaccinations can help guard your dog or puppy against a range of health problems, there are some common dog health problems that can't. Learn more.
Choosing the Best Dog Food
Learn what to look for when choosing the best dog food for your pup. Healthy ingredients, your dog's age & his physical condition are important factors.
Should I Worry If My Dog Twitches During Sleep?
Should I Worry If My Dog Twitches During Sleep?
Sled Dogs Amazing Story of Strength and Beauty
Learn more about sled dogs and their role in today's wilderness treks, as well as their rich history helping to settle the Alaskan frontier.
How to Treat A Cut on A Dog (& What to Put on It)
Learn basic steps & precautions for treating a cut on your dog, including what you can put on the cut, and when you should take them to the vet.
Understanding & Treating Dehydration in Dogs
Dehydration in dogs can be a life threatening condition. Learn more about the causes, signs, treatments and how to prevent dehydration.
Why Does My Dog Eat Poop?
Learn why your dog might be eating his own stool or the poo of other animals. Find out what you can do to try and change this behavior in your dog.
Can Dogs Have Asthma?
Can dogs have asthma? Learn more about the clinical signs of dog asthma and how this condition is treated.
Features to Look For in the Best Dog Harness
Learn important features and considerations when choosing a dog harness, including the style, material, proper fit and durability.
Common Health Concerns to Look for in Puppies
Watch out for these 6 common health issues that puppies may develop in their first year of life. Learn all the symptoms so you can provide the best care.
Side Effects of Rabies Vaccine in Dogs
Learn about common side effects of rabies vaccine in dogs, as well as less common reactions that indicate you should bring your dog to the veterinarian.
How Proper Dog Oral Care Leads to Healthy Dog Teeth
Are you paying enough attention to dog oral care? Learn some great ways to keep your dog's teeth & gums healthy, including a guide for brushing his teeth.
Why Do Dogs Howl?
Learn some possible reasons for your dog's howling, which breeds are most active howlers, and some training tips for getting them to stop.
Dog Scooting & Recognizing Anal Gland Problems
If your dog regularly scoots on the carpet, the cause may be their anal glands. Learn how to recognize issues and how you can help relieve the itch.
How Long Are Dogs Pregnant?
Learn about the pregnancy cycle in dogs, including how long they are usually pregnant and details about each trimester.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.