Just as in humans and many other animals as well, heart conditions in dogs can be among the most dangerous and potentially serious health concerns that you might have for your pet. There are a variety of heart conditions that can affect dogs, and while many of them tend not to strike until old age or only in certain breeds, the majority of them may develop at virtually any time. The better aware you are of your pet's heart condition and overall health, the better you'll be able to treat his problem before it becomes something serious and potentially life threatening.
Respiratory Distress in Dogs with Heart Problems
One of the primary symptoms of heart disease is respiratory distress. Unfortunately, this is also one of the symptoms that is most often overlooked as a potential warning sign for a canine heart problem, as many pet owners do not recognize that it is closely tied with heart health in dogs. If you notice your pet doing any of the following, you should be concerned about his heart condition and overall health:
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing
While no one of these indicators is a clear sign of heart damage or trouble, they are nonetheless some of the most common symptoms of these diseases. Your vet will need to run respiratory tests in order to determine whether these symptoms are signs of an isolated respiratory condition or if they may indicate something about your dog's heart.
Dog Weight Loss and Heart Conditions
Another of the major signs of heart problems in your pet is massive weight loss. This may come about very quickly, or it may take more time to develop. Because many pet owners do not recognize weight loss in their pets early on, they oftentimes will not be aware of this symptom until the weight loss itself has become quite severe. This is a problem, however, because at that point your pet's health may be compromised. Regular weighings can help you to keep a close eye on your dog's health.
Irregular or Abnormal Heartbeat in Dogs
In some cases, heart conditions may lead to unusual heartbeat patterns for your pet. Your vet may be best able to monitor your pet's heart rate, but with a bit of background knowledge, you can do the same at home. Consult with your vet for a general idea of what your pet's resting heart rate should be based on his age, weight and breed, then monitor his heart periodically. Listen for faster or slower or irregular beats as potential symptoms of a heart condition.
Heart Conditions and Lethargy in Dogs
Dogs with heart conditions are oftentimes very lethargic. They may not be willing to or interested in getting up, walking around, playing outside, or even coming to get food. Unfortunately, lethargy is a common symptom of other conditions as well, but it's important to recognize that it may be a sign that your pet is having severe heart problems.
If you notice these or any other potentially suspicious signs, take your pet in to the vet for immediate examination.