Safest Heart Medications for Dogs

Dogs can develop several heart diseases, including congestive heart failure, chronic valvar disease (problems with heart valves) and dilated cardiomyopathy (enlarged heart). Fortunately, many medications have been developed to treat canine heart problems. The safest dog heart medications are prescription medications from your veterinarian and not alternative or "natural" remedies.

Diuretics

These medicines help the blood flow regularly and reduce excess fluid in the lungs. This includes Lasix (furosemide) and Spiractin (spironolactone).

ACE Inhibitors

ACE stands for angiotensin-converting enzyme. These drugs are identical to human versions, only the dosage size is much smaller. The dog will need kidney function tests on ACE inhibitors.

Digitalis

Digitailis helps slow heart rate and strengthens heart muscle. This has helped a lot of dogs, but can give side effects such as diarrhea, vomiting and listlessness. The dose would then need to be lowered until the dog feels better.

Vet-Supervised Supplements

Some food supplements such as Coenzyme Q, taurine and vitamin B have been known to help some dogs with congestive heart failure. However, the vet needs to approve dosage amounts.

Warning

Never give human heart medication to dogs because they will be far too strong for the dog. Human heart pills can potentially kill a dog.

Resources

• Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook
• Heart Failure in Dogs -- Congestive Cardiomyopathy
• The Pill Book Guide to Medication for Your Dog and Cat