Heart disease (cardiovascular disease) is quite common in dogs, especially as they grow older. Around one in ten dogs seen by vets have some form of heart disease. The most common types are mitral valve disease (MVD), where a heart valve becomes leaky over time, and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), where the heart muscle becomes weak and enlarged. Both of these conditions can eventually lead to congestive heart failure (CHF), which happens when the heart can no longer pump blood efficiently. This can cause fluid to build up in the lungs or abdomen, making it harder for your dog to breathe or stay active.

Some dogs are born with heart problems, known as congenital heart diseases. These are usually hereditary and can vary in severity. In mild cases, a dog may show no signs for years, but as the disease progresses, symptoms such as tiredness, reluctance to exercise, heavy breathing, poor appetite, coughing, or even collapse may appear.

How is cardiovascular disease diagnosed

There is no single test that can diagnose congestive heart failure. Your vet will use a combination of examinations and tests to find out what is happening with your dog’s heart. This often includes listening for a heart murmur, taking chest X-rays or ultrasound scans to look at the size and function of the heart, checking blood tests, and sometimes performing an ECG. Some dogs are diagnosed early during a routine check-up, especially in breeds more prone to heart problems. Others may only show symptoms when the condition has advanced, such as difficulty breathing, bluish gums, or fainting spells.

Although congestive heart failure cannot usually be cured, it can be managed successfully with medication and regular monitoring. Common treatments include pimobendan, which helps the heart pump more effectively; furosemide, a diuretic that helps remove excess fluid; and ACE inhibitors such as benazepril, which reduce the heart’s workload and help control blood pressure. Your vet will create a treatment plan tailored to your dog’s needs and may adjust doses over time to achieve the best results.

At home, you play a vital role in helping your dog stay comfortable and well. Monitoring your dog’s resting breathing rate, watching for coughing or breathing difficulties, checking for any swelling in the belly, and noticing changes in appetite or energy levels can help you and your vet track the condition. Keeping a simple daily log or using an owner app or website can make it easier to notice patterns or changes early.

The main goal of treating congestive heart failure is to relieve symptoms and improve your dog’s quality of life. With appropriate medication, regular check-ups, and careful home monitoring, many dogs with heart failure can continue to enjoy a happy, active, and comfortable life for years to come.

At Orchard House Vets, we provide comprehensive care for pets with cardiovascular disease, from early diagnosis to long-term management. Our team begins with a thorough clinical examination, followed by advanced diagnostic tests such as blood work, ECGs, and chest X-rays to assess heart structure and function. Once a diagnosis is made, we create a tailored treatment plan, which may include medication, dietary adjustments, and exercise recommendations. Throughout treatment, our vets offer continuous monitoring and aftercare, ensuring your pet’s comfort and quality of life. With compassionate support and state-of-the-art technology, Orchard House Vets helps your pet live a happier, healthier life.