Understanding Chronic Valvular Disease in Dogs

Congestive heart failure in dogs is a very common, progressive condition in which the heart valves become thickened and malfunction.

When Canine Has Congestive Heart Failure

When the valves thicken or harden it can restrict the blood flow or allow blood to leak past the valve and compromise the heart's ability to pump blood. Fluid may accumulate in the lungs and the abdominal cavity. This condition can lead to heart enlargement or heart failure and is more prevalent in older dogs.

Chronic valvular disease can affect any breed but is more common in smaller breeds such as:

• Poodles
• Yorkshire Terriers
• Miniature Schnauzers
• Cocker Spaniels
• Cavalier King Charles
• Chihuahua
• Maltese
• Pekingese
• Whippet
• small mixed breeds
  

Symptoms and signs to look for are moderate to severe:

• coughing or a frothy cough
• difficulty breathing
• fainting
• lethargy and/or depression
• loss of appetite
• weakness
• intolerance to any exercise
• weight loss
• swollen abdomen
• extension of the head to breath
• blue gums and tongue
  

Since there may be no obvious signs during the initial early stages, the condition is usually discovered during routine exams.