{"id":1046,"date":"2020-04-09T14:03:00","date_gmt":"2020-04-09T18:03:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.beverlyhillsvets.com\/blog\/?p=1046"},"modified":"2020-04-09T14:03:00","modified_gmt":"2020-04-09T18:03:00","slug":"heart-disease-in-dogs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.beverlyhillsvets.com\/blog\/heart-disease-in-dogs\/","title":{"rendered":"Heart Disease In Dogs"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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There\u2019s no doubt that your dog\u2019s heart is special \u2013 but did you know that it can fall victim to disease just like a human heart can? Heart disease is the leading cause of death among people in the United States, and our dogs aren\u2019t far behind. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Learning how to spot the signs of heart disease in dogs, and what you can do to prevent it in the first place, is key to keeping your sweet pup happy and healthy for the long term.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Heart Disease in Dogs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Unlike humans, dogs don\u2019t typically suffer from heart attacks or stroke. There are two main forms of heart disease in dogs:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mitral valve disease<\/strong> \u2013 The mitral valve separates the two sides of the heart, but when it starts to break down blood can leak through. This leakage results in the heart having to work harder to pump blood. Mitral valve disease is the most common form of heart disease in dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dilated cardiomyopathy<\/strong> \u2013 This is a weakening of the heart muscle, causing the heart to have to pump harder to deliver blood throughout the body. Over time this leads to enlargement of the heart muscle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Just like with people, aging, poor nutrition, and excess weight can all contribute to heart disease in dogs. Breed plays a role, too \u2013 Cavalier King Charles spaniels, Chihuahuas, Daschunds, and other small breeds are more prone to mitral valve disease, while larger breeds like Great Danes, Labrador Retrievers, and German Shepherds tend to develop dilated cardiomyopathy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Signs of Trouble<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Like most medical problems, early detection and treatment of canine heart disease is ideal. The early signs are subtle, so it\u2019s important to know what to look out for. Please contact your Beverly Hills Veterinary Associates<\/a> veterinarian if you notice any of the following symptoms of heart disease in your pet:<\/p>\n\n\n\n