Mitral valve disease is the most common heart disease in dogs. It results from a thickening of the mitral valve as a dog ages. Because the mitral valve is the gate between the two left heart chambers, it leaks blood and the heart enlarges. Mitral valve disease can progress to congestive heart failure (CHF).
What is the most common form of heart failure in dogs?
#1: Valvular Degeneration As pets age, their heart valves can deteriorate to the point where they no longer close completely, and their blood fails to flow in the right direction. Degenerative mitral valve disease (DMVD) is the most common type of valvular degeneration to affect dogs.
What is the most common cause of heart disease in dogs?
There's no single cause of heart disease in dogs. Aging, obesity, breed, and nutrition can all play a role. Heart valve problems are the most common issue and typically affect small breed dogs that are five years or older. No matter what heart condition your dog has, it's important to spot the signs early.
What is the life expectancy of a dog with congestive heart failure?
Once congestive heart failure develops, the survival time of affected dogs is expected to be between 6 and 14 months. Some dogs, however, can live for nearly three years with the right treatment regimen.
What causes sudden heart failure in dogs?
There are many causes of congestive heart failure (CHF) in dogs. CHF can be brought on by high blood pressure, congenital heart defects, heartworm disease, or a variety of other disorders. A dog with congestive heart failure may cough, have trouble breathing, experience fatigue, loss of appetite, or might die suddenly.
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