The heart is a powerful muscle but isn’t immune to heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions. In fact, did you know that around 10% of all dogs develop some form of heart disease during their lifetime? The risk increases as they become senior canines.
As pet owners, we want to ensure the well-being of our furry companions, and maintaining a healthy heart is a crucial aspect of their overall health. Fortunately, there are proactive steps you can take to promote canine heart health and enhance their quality of life.
This blog discusses essential tips and strategies for safeguarding heart health for dogs so they can enjoy many more years of happiness with you. It will also provide common symptoms of heart disease in dogs for you to watch out for.
Common Symptoms of Heart Disease in Dogs
Heart disease in dogs manifests in various ways, and the symptoms can vary depending on the specific condition.
Coughing
Persistent coughing, especially if it worsens during activity or at night, can indicate heart disease in dogs. The cough may sound dry or moist, accompanied by gagging or retching.
Difficulty Breathing
Dogs experiencing difficulty or rapid and shallow breathing is indicative of heart disease. They may breathe with an open mouth, pant excessively, or have labored breathing even at rest.
Weakness and Fatigue
Some dogs with heart disease may also become lethargic, weak, and reluctant to engage in physical activity. Short walks and playtime easily tire them, urging your pet to prefer to rest more than usual.
Moreover, heart disease decreases exercise tolerance, which means dogs are less likely to participate in activities they once enjoyed.
Fainting or Collapsing
Advanced heart disease causes inadequate blood flow to the brain, resulting in fainting episodes. Passing out may be preceded by weakness, disorientation, or collapse.
Cyanosis (Blue Tint to Gums or Tongue)
Dogs with bluish gums, tongue, or skin discoloration suffer from poor blood oxygenation. This heart disease symptom indicates a severe lack of oxygen in the bloodstream and requires immediate veterinary action.
Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss
Your canine companion may also experience a decreased appetite, leading to weight loss or muscle wasting over time.
Abdominal Distention (Ascites)
Dogs with a certain type of heart disease, particularly congestive heart failure, indicate ascites or fluid accumulation in the abdomen. This disease causes the abdomen to appear swollen or distended and can be accompanied by discomfort or difficulty breathing.
How to Keep Your Dog’s Heart Healthy
Regular Exercise
Encourage regular physical activity to keep your dog’s heart strong and healthy. Consider daily walks, playtime, and activities like fetch to maintain cardiovascular fitness and prevent obesity. You can also join your canine companion in pursuing a healthier heart by joining them in swimming or hiking. Similarly, dog-related sports, such as flyball and agility training, are excellent ways to boost canine heart health.
Balanced Diet
Provide your dog with a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to meet their specific needs. High-quality dog food rich in essential nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals can support heart health.
But what are heart-healthy foods for a dog's heart?
- Lean Protein Sources: Chicken, turkey, lean beef, fish, and eggs are excellent choices for supporting heart health in dogs. They provide essential amino acids for muscle development and repair without adding excessive fat to your dog’s diet.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Salmon, sardines, and mackerel are sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These acids are beneficial for heart health for dogs as they help reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and support overall cardiovascular function. Alternatively, consider incorporating fish oil supplements.
- Fruits and Vegetables: Some heart-healthy fruits and vegetables for dogs include blueberries, strawberries, spinach, kale, sweet potatoes, and carrots. Consult your veterinarian first to avoid giving food that can be dangerous to your pet.
- Whole Grains: Add whole grains to your dog’s diet to support heart health and digestion. Avoid highly processed grains and opt for easily digestible whole grains, such as brown rice, quinoa, oats, and barley.
- Low-Sodium Options: Limit your dog’s sodium intake to maintain a healthy heart, especially if they are at risk for heart disease. Choose low-sodium or sodium-free options when selecting commercial dog food or treats. We also recommend avoiding feeding your pet salty human foods like chips, pretzels, and processed meat.
- Probiotics and Prebiotics: Yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables are natural sources of probiotics, while bananas, garlic, and chicory root are rich in prebiotic fibers. These can support gut health and indirectly benefit your dog’s heart health.
- Hydration: Always provide your dog with fresh, clean water. You can also consider adding moisture-rich foods, such as canned dog food or raw fruits and vegetables, to their diet.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Regular exercise and a balanced diet go hand in hand in helping your pet maintain a healthy weight. After all, obesity puts a strain on your dog’s heart, resulting in an increased risk of cardiovascular problems. Monitoring your canine companion’s weight regularly and adjusting their diet and exercise routine accordingly is essential.
Consider Fish Oil Supplements
Fish oil supplements are a potent ally in bolstering heart health for dogs due to their rich content of omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are renowned for their anti-inflammatory properties and are beneficial in combating inflammation, a leading risk factor for heart disease, strokes, and heart failure in dogs. This inflammation inflicts damage to blood vessels and constricts arteries.
Moreover, fish oil supplements help regulate triglyceride levels in the bloodstream. This type of fat tends to accumulate along arterial walls and solidify into plaque, leading to hypertension and impeding the delivery of important nutrients by blood cells. Omega-3 fatty acids counteract high blood pressure and promote arterial dilation.
Regular Veterinary Check-ups
Another way on how to keep your dog’s heart healthy is to schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian. A friendly visit ensures they are in their best condition and helps detect any potential risk factors early for prompt treatment.
Avoid Exposure to Secondhand Smoke
Secondhand smoke contains harmful toxins and carcinogens that can adversely affect your dog’s respiratory system and cardiovascular health. We recommend keeping your home smoke-free and avoiding exposure to cigarette smoke, vape residue, and other environmental pollutants.
Maintain Canine Heart Health with Expert Tips
A dog’s heart is the center of their vitality and well-being. Be a responsible pet owner and take proactive steps to promote canine heart health, such as letting them exercise regularly, providing a balanced diet, and ensuring routine veterinary care. Boost your efforts by providing fish oil supplements to reap their many health benefits.
Nurture our beloved canine companions so they can live healthy lives. Here’s to many more years of wagging tails, wet noses, and joyful moments.
Learn more about dog health by visiting the Stryde Vet blog.