10 Signs Of Heart Disease In Dogs

Early diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference when it comes to heart disease. Here are 10 warning signs to look for.

#10 - Coughing

Coughing is a very common symptom of many illnesses, one of those being heart disease. Minor coughs will not last more than a few days, but lasting more than 3 days could signal heart problems.

#9 - Difficulty Breathing

Changes in breathing relating to heart disease may include difficulty breathing due to shortness of breath, laboured breathing, or rapid breathing.

#8 - Behavioural Changes

If the dog is tiring more easily, being less playful, has reluctance to exercise, has reluctance to accept affection, being withdrawn, or an appearance of depression, these are all signs of heart disease.

#7 - Loss Of Appetite

Loss of appetite is almost always a symptom of something. If combined with any of the other symptoms on this list, it could be a strong indicator of heart disease.

#6 - Weight Changes

Weight loss is definitely a symptom of heart disease, though weight gain can be as well. More likely than weight gain is a bloated or distended abdomen, giving a potbellied appearance.

#5 - Collapse

If a dog collapses at any time, it needs veterinary help. It may be a sign of many different serious illnesses, heart disease being one of them.

#4 - Weakness

Weakness may be seen as a general sign of ageing, but if it is combined with other symptoms, it can be a sign of heart disease.

#3 - Restlessness

A restless dog, especially at night, may have heart disease.

#2 - Edema

Edema is the swelling of body tissues. In regards to heart disease, there may be swelling in the abdomen and extremities if it has heart disease.

#1 - Isolation

If a dog suddenly starts to isolate itself or is keeping its distance from other pets and/or family members, this may be a sign of heart disease.