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Heart Problems In Dogs

Submitted by Michael Adams on March 11, 2010

Dogs, apart from among the most popular of pets in the world, are also extremely resilient and may be able to ward off many health problems for quite a while. However, once they get old, they can also start to fall sick more frequently and may also develop many other health complications.

Dogs usually do not have heart attacks, at least not the way we humans experience them.

However, heart failure is an extremely common problem in dogs, especially those dogs that are old. Heart problems are a leading cause of death in dogs. This is because even minor heart problems can cause shock and the eventual failure of the entire cardio vascular system.

Heart problems in dogs are usually genetic in nature. There are certain specific dog breeds that are more prone to experiencing heart problems than others. Breeds like the Beagle, Keeshond, Bull Terrier, Labrador Retriever, German Shepherds, Great Danes, Samoyed, Bulldog, Golden Retrievers, and Boxers are some of the dogs which are genetically predisposed to heart failure in dogs.

Congestive heart failure in dogs can also be caused due to diseases such as myocarditis in which the muscles of the dog’s heart become inflamed. Diseases like Lyme disease and bacterial endocarditis can also cause inflammation of the muscles of the heart. This results in increased pressure on the heart and eventual failure of the machinery of the cardio vascular system.

Heart murmur in dogs is another common problem which is caused by a disturbed flow of blood. Murmuring, though a common heart condition, is not always very dangerous. Some dogs are able to live their entire lives with a murmuring heart. Regular visits to the vet can keep this kind of murmuring in check. Regular check ups also prevent the development of heart diseases.

Another cause of heart failure in dogs is heartworms. These worms lodge themselves in the dog’s heart. Though they usually bore into the right side of the heart, if not checked, they may continue to reproduce and infest the entire heart. These heartworms are spread by insect bites. Heartworms can be prevented by using preventative medications.

No matter what the cause of the heart problems, the symptoms of heart problems in dogs are usually very similar. Dogs that are suffering from heart problems get tired very easily. They usually have a chronic cough, circulation problems and develop a bluish tinge in both, their tongue and gums. Dogs with heart problems are also more prone to collapsing.

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