Some dogs with DCM do well with treatment for a period of time; however, some dogs will never resume a normal lifestyle. Doberman Pinschers have been shown to live as little as 3 months once diagnosed.Other dogs have been known to live between 6-24 months if they respond well to treatment.
What is the life expectancy of a dog with dilated cardiomyopathy?
Palliative Care for Dogs with Dilated Cardiomyopathy Research shows that the average lifespan after diagnosis is approximately 6 months. However, that can vary depending on other factors. Sadly, there is no cure.
Can dog DCM be reversed?
What is the prognosis for dogs with DCM? Unfortunately, DCM is rarely reversible and individuals that have it usually have it for life. A rare exception is taurine deficiency in a small subset of the population as discussed above. Medical therapy can help, but long-term survival is variable for each animal.
What are the stages of DCM in dogs?
DCM is generally divided into two phases: 1) An occult phase, during which time disease is present but dogs remain asymptomatic. This phase can last months to years. 2) An overt clinical phase, when clinical signs develop.
Do dogs with DCM suffer?
PROGNOSIS: Canine DCM can be a devastating disease, and the prognosis for dogs with DCM is variable depending upon breed and status at presentation. The prognosis for Doberman Pinschers with DCM, for example, is less favorable than in other breeds, while DCM in Cocker Spaniels may be relatively slowly progressive.
