Dog Heart Disease Symptoms
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, 3.2 million dogs in America will come down with heart disease per year. It is far more common for a dog to get heart disease in later years than when they are younger. Heart disease in dogs can potentially cause heart failure, just like in humans.
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Features
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According to Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook, the most common symptoms of heart disease are coughing, tiring easily, fainting and developing a swollen abdomen.
Diagnosis
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A dog exhibiting the above symptoms will be diagnosed as to what kind of heart disease he has by means of a blood test for heartworms, chest X-rays, electrocardiograms and listening for any changes in heartbeats.
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Breeds
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Breeds most likely to have heart disease due to genetic defects include all poodles, schnauzers, cocker spaniels, Chihuahuas, Yorkshire terriers and Lhasa Apsos.
Time Frame
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Symptoms of canine heart disease get worse over time, so treatment needs to be started immediately. If the dog is overweight, a diet will be in order to lessen the strain on the heart.
Misconceptions
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A dog with heart murmurs and no other symptoms will not necessarily have heart disease. But a dog with a known history of heart murmurs that develops other symptoms may have heart disease.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Image of obese dog from Wikimedia Commons
