How to Tell if a Dog's Heart Murmur is Getting Worse
Heart murmurs in dogs are not uncommon and can range from benign to serious conditions requiring ongoing veterinary care. Monitoring for worsening signs is essential to your pet’s health and longevity. This guide will help pet owners recognize when a dog's heart murmur may be progressing and what steps to take.
Understanding Heart Murmurs in Dogs
A heart murmur is an abnormal sound heard during a heartbeat, often caused by turbulent blood flow within the heart or the neighboring vessels. Murmurs vary in intensity and are graded on a scale of I to VI, with VI being the most severe. They can be innocent, especially in puppies, or indicative of underlying cardiac disease.
Causes of Heart Murmurs
- Congenital heart defects
- Mitral valve disease
- Cardiomyopathy
- Endocarditis (heart infection)
- Age-related degeneration of the heart valves
Key Signs the Murmur Is Worsening
If your dog has already been diagnosed with a heart murmur, watch closely for these symptoms which could suggest the condition is deteriorating:
- Coughing: Especially after exercise or during the night
- Rapid or labored breathing: A sign that fluid may be building up in the lungs
- Exercise intolerance: Your dog may avoid running or playing due to fatigue
- Fainting or collapsing: A severe sign often tied to reduced cardiac output
- Reduced appetite and lethargy: Can signal heart failure is developing
- Swollen abdomen: Possible fluid accumulation (ascites)
Diagnostic Tools for Monitoring Heart Health
To assess whether a heart murmur is getting worse, your veterinarian may perform:
- Auscultation: Listening to the heart with a stethoscope for changes in murmur intensity or rhythm
- Thoracic radiographs (X-rays): To check heart size and fluid in the lungs
- Echocardiography: An ultrasound that gives a visual of the heart’s structure and efficiency
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): Measures electrical activity to detect arrhythmias
- Blood pressure monitoring
- BNP testing: A blood test that can indicate heart failure
Management and Monitoring Strategies
- Regular checkups: Dogs with known murmurs should have exams every 6–12 months, or more frequently if symptoms emerge
- Medication: Drugs like pimobendan, enalapril, or diuretics may be prescribed
- Exercise regulation: Limit strenuous activities but maintain gentle walks
- Dietary support: Consider low-sodium, heart-healthy diets recommended by your vet
What to Discuss with Your Veterinarian
You should consult your vet if your dog shows any of the signs listed above. Ask about:
- Changes in murmur grade
- Follow-up imaging or testing
- Medication adjustments
- Progression to congestive heart failure
Prognosis
The outlook for dogs with heart murmurs varies. Early detection and treatment can give your pet years of quality life. Dogs with mild murmurs may live normally, while those with severe murmurs need close monitoring and medication.
In Summary
Recognizing the signs that your dog’s heart murmur is worsening is critical. Coughing, fatigue, labored breathing, and fainting are serious indicators. By working closely with your veterinarian, monitoring symptoms, and following prescribed treatments, you can help maintain your dog’s heart health and overall well-being.
