What are the symptoms of heart problems in dogs

In the days spent with dogs, we always hope that they can always be healthy and happy, filling our lives with lively figures and warm companionship. However, dogs also face various health problems, among which heart problems are like hidden "killers" in the dark, quietly threatening their lives. As the closest companion of dogs, understanding the symptoms of their heart problems is the key to safeguarding their health. Every symptom is a distress signal sent by the dog to us, requiring us to listen carefully and interpret it.

Breathless breathing is one of the common symptoms when dogs have heart problems. When a dog's heart function is impaired and unable to effectively pump blood throughout the body, and its various organs do not receive sufficient oxygen supply, it will try to obtain more oxygen by increasing its breathing rate. The dog, which was originally resting quietly on its stomach, seemed to have just undergone a vigorous exercise, panting heavily, breathing rapidly, and its abdomen heaving violently with each breath. This abnormal wheezing often occurs when a dog's daily activity level does not increase, often indicating that the heart is sounding the alarm. For example, some small dogs, such as Pomeranians and Chihuahuas, have narrow airways and are more prone to respiratory abnormalities due to heart problems. If the owner finds that the dog's breathing frequency is significantly higher than usual and it is difficult to relieve after rest, they must be highly vigilant, which is likely an early manifestation of heart disease.

Coughing is also an important warning for dogs with heart problems. Unlike cough caused by ordinary respiratory infections, cough caused by heart problems is mostly dry cough, with a clear and frequent sound, like something in the throat that cannot be coughed up. Especially after exercise, excitement, or nighttime rest, coughing symptoms may worsen in dogs. This is because in these situations, the burden on the heart increases, the blood circulation in the lungs is affected, causing fluid to accumulate in the lungs, stimulating the respiratory tract and causing coughing. For example, in dogs with mitral valve disease, as the condition progresses, blood flows back to the left atrium, causing an increase in pulmonary venous pressure and frequent coughing symptoms. If a dog continues to cough and conventional cough treatment is ineffective, the owner must take it to have its heart checked to determine if there are any heart problems.

Easy fatigue is also a significant sign of heart problems in dogs. Healthy dogs are always full of vitality and enthusiastic about activities such as playing and walking. But when the heart has problems and cannot provide enough energy to the body, the dog will become lethargic and easily tired. Dogs that used to run happily and play for long periods of time are now panting and unwilling to move again, even losing interest in their favorite toys and games.

Fainting is a symptom of severe heart problems in dogs. When a dog's heart function is severely damaged, unable to maintain normal blood circulation, and the brain does not receive sufficient blood supply, it may lead to fainting. This kind of fainting usually comes suddenly, and dogs may suddenly lose consciousness and collapse to the ground while playing, getting excited, or engaging in vigorous exercise. Some dogs can recover quickly after fainting, but there are also some dogs that may fall into a prolonged coma. It should be noted that fainting may also be caused by other diseases such as epilepsy, but if the dog is accompanied by symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and fatigue, then the possibility of fainting due to heart problems is high. Once a dog faints, the owner must immediately take it to the hospital for a comprehensive examination, identify the cause, and seek timely treatment, as this may endanger the dog's life and safety.

In addition to the common symptoms mentioned above, heart problems in dogs may also manifest as loss of appetite, weight loss, abdominal swelling, pale or cyanotic gums, etc. Abnormal heart function affects the digestive system of dogs, leading to decreased appetite and a lack of interest in their favorite foods. Long term loss of appetite can gradually cause dogs to lose weight and become emaciated. When heart failure develops to a certain extent and blood reflux is obstructed, fluid will accumulate in the abdominal cavity, causing abdominal swelling. The change in gum color reflects the blood circulation status of the dog's body. Under normal circumstances, a dog's gums should be pink and moist. If the gums turn pale, it may indicate anemia and insufficient oxygen carrying capacity in the blood; If the gums turn blue and purple, it indicates that the dog's body is experiencing severe hypoxia, which is closely related to heart problems.

The symptoms of heart problems in dogs are diverse and may be similar to those of other diseases, making them easily overlooked by their owners. As owners of dogs, we should always pay attention to their physical condition and behavioral changes, familiarize ourselves with their daily habits. Once any abnormalities are found, we should not take any chances and take our dogs to the pet hospital for a comprehensive examination in a timely manner. Veterinarians can accurately determine whether a dog has heart disease and the severity of the condition through professional methods such as cardiac auscultation, electrocardiogram examination, X-ray examination, and cardiac ultrasound. Early detection and treatment are crucial for the prognosis of heart disease in dogs, as they can maximize their quality of life and prolong their lifespan. Every dog is an indispensable member of our family, accompanying us with all their love. We also have a responsibility to be careful and patient, guarding their health and allowing them to spend every beautiful day with us happily.