Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs

About 10% of all dogs may develop some form of heart disease during their lifetime. The prevalence of heart disease increases with age, with up to 75% of senior dogs being affected by some form of heart disease. 

What is Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs?

Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) in dogs is a condition where the dog's heart is unable to pump blood effectively, leading to fluid buildup in the body, particularly in the lungs and around the heart. This condition can be caused by a variety of underlying heart diseases and can affect dogs of any age, breed, or size.

Symptoms of Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs

Early detection is vital in managing CHF. Symptoms can vary but often include:

• Coughing: Particularly at night or after exercise.

• Difficulty Breathing: Labored or rapid breathing.

• Lethargy: Reduced activity levels or reluctance to exercise.

• Weight Loss: Often accompanied by loss of appetite.

• Distended Abdomen: Due to fluid accumulation.

What Causes Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs?

CHF in dogs can be attributed to a variety of underlying heart diseases. The most common causes include:

• Mitral Valve Disease: A degenerative condition affecting the heart's mitral valve, leading to blood leakage and heart enlargement.

• Dilated Cardiomyopathy: A disease where the heart muscle weakens and becomes enlarged, impairing its pumping ability.

• Congenital Heart Defects: Conditions like patent ductus arteriosus or ventricular septal defects present from birth.

• Heartworm Disease: Caused by parasitic worms living in the heart and lungs.

• Certain breeds, particularly small ones like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, are more predisposed to CHF.

• Parvovirus: This virus can potentially infect the heart muscles, and can even cause acute heart failure in dogs.

• Bacterial infections: Bacteria from the mouth can get into the bloodstream and attach to the heart valves, causing inflammation in the lining of the heart or in the valves. (This is why good dental care is extremely important. Check out our article on how to brush your dog’s teeth.)

• Older dogs and those with a history of heart problems are also at increased risk.

How to Treat Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs?

Before treatment, veterinarians make a diagnosis. To diagnose CHF, veterinarians typically perform a physical examination, listen to the heart and lungs, and recommend diagnostic tests such as chest X-rays, an ECG (electrocardiogram), and an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart).

What are the Stages of Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs?

• Stage I – Asymptomatic: The dog has a heart condition but shows no visible symptoms of heart failure.

• Stage II – Mild to Moderate Symptoms: The dog begins to show symptoms, but they are usually only evident during exercise or stress. Symptoms might include coughing, fatigue, or difficulty breathing after exercise.

• Stage III – Advanced Symptoms: The dog may show signs of significant distress, such as persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, reduced appetite, and lethargy.

• Stage IV – Severe Symptoms: The dog may experience extreme difficulty breathing, fainting spells, severe lethargy, and an inability to exercise.

While CHF is not curable, its symptoms can often be managed with medication and lifestyle changes. Treatment typically includes:

• Diuretics to reduce fluid buildup

• ACE inhibitors to reduce blood pressure and ease the heart's workload

• Beta-blockers or other medications to regulate heart rate and rhythm

• Dietary changes and restricted sodium intake

• Regular monitoring and veterinary check-ups

Puainta® Diuretics-Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets Difficulty in urination Urinary retention Urinary tract infection Frequent urination and blood in urine Prevention of urolithiasis

Side Effects of Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs

The side effects of Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) in dogs are a result of the heart's inability to pump blood effectively, leading to reduced oxygen delivery to tissues and fluid buildup in various parts of the body. Some of the common side effects include:

• Dogs with CHF may become easily fatigued and may not be able to exercise as they used to. Even mild activity can lead to exhaustion.

• Persistent coughing, especially at night or when lying down, is common due to fluid buildup in the lungs or pressure on the trachea.

• Dogs with CHF may experience a decreased appetite, which can contribute to weight loss and overall weakness.

• Accumulation of fluid in the abdomen (ascites) can cause bloating and discomfort, and in severe cases, may affect breathing by putting pressure on the diaphragm.

• In advanced stages, there might be a bluish discoloration of the mucous membranes (gums, tongue) due to inadequate oxygenation of the blood.

Conclusion

Congestive heart failure in dogs is a challenging diagnosis for any pet owner. Understanding the disease, recognizing its symptoms early, and adhering to a treatment and management plan are vital steps in caring for a dog with CHF. With the right approach, these beloved pets can enjoy a good quality of life despite their condition.