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Understanding Chronic Valvular Disease in Dogs

Dogs > Heart and Circulatory System > 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.

also see Older Dog Health Concerns and Treatments

also see Heart Failure in Dogs: An Introduction

also see Dog Heart Failure: Identifying Possible Symptoms

also see Treating Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs With Vetmedin