Why Dogs Develop Dilated Cardiomyopathy

1 Why Dogs Develop Dilated Cardiomyopathy

1. Common causes of DCM in dogs

1) Some breeds are highly prone to DCM because of genetics. Dobermans and Boxers and other large breeds are most affected; they usually develop it between ages 4 and 10, and males are more likely to get it than females.

2) Poor nutrition — a lack of certain nutrients in the body.

3) Viral infection or parasite infestation can also trigger heart disease in dogs.

4) Low thyroid hormone is another cause of DCM.

A dog with DCM shows pronounced pulmonary edema and uremia, then each organ fails one by one from poor blood supply. Surface signs alone are not enough to confirm the disease — a professional vet must examine the dog and take X-rays to diagnose it.

2. Treatment

Treating DCM is very hard in both cats and dogs. First the vet needs to understand the dog’s condition — check the heart, test kidney function, and look for signs of shock — before starting treatment.

Once the dog’s condition is clear, oxygen therapy comes next, because DCM causes pulmonary edema and fluid buildup. Oxygen must first resolve these problems and keep the dog breathing, then diuretics and heart-strengthening drugs are used together.

Timely treatment can bring the condition under temporary control, but because the disease cannot be cured, a relapse is always possible even after treatment. Many dogs die of arrhythmia 6 months to 2 years later. Each dog’s constitution and care differ, so whether and when an episode returns is unknown; with careful daily care, a dog may go years without one and stay happily by your side.

A gentle reminder: even though DCM cannot be cured, do not lose hope or give up on your dog. With your vet’s guidance and better care, your dog can stay with you for a long time — this time it is your turn to warm it.