Many dogs with heart disease can enjoy good quality time with their families. Their long-term needs depend on the diagnosis and stage, so a medication list appropriate for one patient cannot be applied to every dog with a murmur.
Confirm which heart condition your dog has
Mitral valve disease, dilated cardiomyopathy, congenital defects and rhythm problems have different patterns and treatments. A veterinarian or veterinary cardiologist may use echocardiography, chest X-rays or an ECG to determine the problem. ACVIM guidelines describe stages for mitral valve disease: some asymptomatic dogs require monitoring, while a carefully defined subgroup may benefit from treatment before heart failure begins.
Keep medication routines dependable
When prescribed, heart drugs must be administered as directed. Some patients also need monitoring of kidney function, electrolytes, blood pressure or hydration because cardiovascular medicines can affect these systems. Never independently adjust a diuretic or double a missed dose; ask the prescribing clinic what to do.
Watch trends, not just single episodes
Your veterinarian may recommend recording the resting respiratory rate when the dog is sleeping. Also notice new cough, poor appetite, fainting, abdominal swelling or reduced interest in walks. A cough might come from the lungs or airways rather than directly from heart failure, so new symptoms should be evaluated.
Know the emergency plan
Labored breathing, blue or gray gums or collapse is an emergency. Keep medication names and records accessible for an unfamiliar emergency team. See when to call for care and what improvement can look like after treatment.
Clinical source
ACVIM consensus guidelines for canine mitral valve disease (2019). These guidelines concern mitral valve disease, not every form of canine heart disease.
This article is educational. New breathing difficulty or collapse calls for emergency veterinary care; prescribed heart medication must be managed by the treating veterinarian.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for care from your own veterinarian. Learn about The Pet Vet and our editorial policy.