Updated September 25, 2026. Fact-checked against veterinary sources; review by a licensed veterinarian is in progress. See our editorial policy.
Quick answer: Some heart disease in dogs is preventable, most notably heartworm disease, which year-round preventive medication stops. The most common heart diseases, mitral valve disease and dilated cardiomyopathy, are largely genetic and can’t be fully prevented, but early detection through regular checkups, breed screening, and a heart ultrasound when a murmur is found allows treatment that delays heart failure.
Preventable causes
- Heartworm disease: year-round prevention and yearly testing
- Possible diet-associated DCM: choose a complete diet from an established manufacturer and discuss boutique or grain-free diets with your vet
- Dental disease: good dental care supports overall health
Early detection
- Yearly checkups (every 6 months for seniors) to listen for murmurs and irregular rhythms
- A heart ultrasound when a murmur is found, to decide whether to start pimobendan
- Breed screening, such as Holter and echocardiogram screening in Doberman Pinschers and Holter screening in Boxers
- Learn your dog’s resting breathing rate
Everyday heart health
- Keep your dog lean
- Regular exercise
- Avoid salty treats and table scraps
Breeding
For breeds like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, heart screening of breeding dogs helps reduce inherited heart disease.
Sources
- American Heartworm Society: Canine heartworm guidelines
- Keene BW, et al. ACVIM consensus guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of myxomatous mitral valve disease in dogs. J Vet Intern Med. 2019
- Wess G, et al. European Society of Veterinary Cardiology screening guidelines for dilated cardiomyopathy in Doberman Pinschers. J Vet Cardiol. 2017
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.