How to Tell If a Dog's Heart Murmur Is Getting Worse
Dogs diagnosed with a heart murmur can live happy, healthy lives with proper care and monitoring. However, recognizing when a heart murmur is getting worse is crucial for managing your pet's health proactively. This article outlines the warning signs, diagnostic methods, and steps pet owners should take if they suspect their dog's heart condition is deteriorating.
What Is a Heart Murmur in Dogs?
A heart murmur is an abnormal sound heard during a heartbeat, often caused by turbulent blood flow within the heart. It may be congenital (present at birth) or acquired due to heart disease. Murmurs are graded on a scale of 1 to 6, with grade 1 being the mildest and grade 6 the most severe.
Signs That a Dog’s Heart Murmur Is Getting Worse
Dogs with progressing heart murmurs will often exhibit noticeable clinical signs, including:
- Coughing — especially during or after exercise or while resting.
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing, even at rest.
- Exercise intolerance — tiring quickly or reluctance to walk or play.
- Fainting or collapsing — a sign of poor blood circulation due to reduced heart efficiency.
- Swollen abdomen due to fluid accumulation (ascites).
- Weight loss and reduced appetite.
Veterinary Evaluation: Tracking Murmur Progression
To determine whether the heart murmur is worsening, your veterinarian may perform several tests:
- Regular auscultation: Listening to the heart to assess murmur loudness and changes.
- Chest X-rays (radiographs): To check heart enlargement and fluid in the lungs.
- Echocardiogram (ultrasound): Provides detailed images of heart structure and function.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): Measures electrical activity and detects irregular rhythms.
- Blood tests: Including Pro-BNP to measure heart stress levels.
Progressing Heart Disease Related to Murmurs
A worsening heart murmur may indicate developing or advanced degenerative mitral valve disease, dilated cardiomyopathy, or other structural changes. These conditions can lead to congestive heart failure if not managed effectively.
What You Can Do at Home
Pet owners play a vital role in monitoring their dog's health. Here's how you can help:
- Note any changes in breathing, activity, or appetite.
- Monitor respiratory rate at rest (normal: 15–30 breaths/min).
- Keep a symptom diary to share during veterinary visits.
- Provide a low-sodium diet and manage weight.
- Administer prescribed medications consistently, such as diuretics, ACE inhibitors, or pimobendan.
When to Seek Immediate Veterinary Attention
If your dog shows any of the following, contact your veterinarian immediately:
- Persistent coughing or gagging
- Labored or noisy breathing
- Collapse or fainting
- Severe lethargy or refusal to eat
Conclusion
Recognizing signs of a worsening heart murmur in your dog is essential to ensuring timely and effective care. Partner with your veterinarian for regular check-ups and don’t hesitate to seek immediate help if symptoms escalate. With proper attention and treatment, many dogs with heart murmurs can continue to live enjoyable lives.
