Heart disease affects roughly 1 in 10 dogs — and in certain breeds, that number climbs significantly higher. Dogwood’s cardiology team answers the questions we hear most.

Q  What are the most common types of heart disease in dogs?

A  The two most common are Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease (MMVD) — a degenerative valve condition most common in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Dachshunds, and Shih Tzus — and Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), which primarily affects Dobermans, Great Danes, and Boxers. Both can progress to congestive heart failure if untreated.

Q  My vet said my dog has a heart murmur. Should I be worried?

A  Not necessarily. Murmurs are graded 1–6 by intensity. Low-grade murmurs in older small breeds are often stable for years. An echocardiogram at Dogwood can assess whether the murmur is affecting heart function and whether treatment is needed.

Q  What are the warning signs of heart disease in dogs?

A  Early signs: persistent cough (especially at night), reduced exercise tolerance, labored breathing, occasional fainting. Advanced: distended abdomen, rapid resting breathing, blue-tinged gums. Any of these warrant urgent evaluation.

Q  What is congestive heart failure (CHF) in dogs?

A  CHF occurs when the heart can no longer pump effectively, causing fluid to accumulate in the lungs (left-sided) or abdomen (right-sided). It is serious but manageable — many dogs live comfortably for months to years after diagnosis with the right medications and monitoring.

Q  What tests does Dogwood’s cardiologist perform?

A  A full cardiac workup includes: thorough auscultation, chest X-rays, echocardiogram (real-time heart ultrasound), ECG (heart rhythm), blood pressure measurement, and bloodwork. Cardiac biomarker testing (proBNP) can identify dogs at elevated risk before symptoms appear.

Q  Can heart disease in dogs be treated?

A  Most forms cannot be cured but are very manageable. Pimobendan, diuretics, and ACE inhibitors slow disease progression and extend quality life. Some dogs begin medications before developing symptoms — early intervention on echocardiographic findings is proven to delay heart failure.

Q  How often should my dog see a cardiologist?

A  Early murmur: echocardiogram recheck every 6–12 months. On cardiac medications: recheck every 3–6 months. Our team creates a personalized monitoring plan for each patient.

Q  Which dog breeds are most at risk?

A  MMVD: Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Dachshunds, Poodles, Cocker Spaniels. DCM: Doberman Pinschers, Great Danes, Boxers, Irish Wolfhounds. We recommend cardiac screening for at-risk breeds before symptoms appear.

Q  Should I track my dog’s resting respiratory rate?

A  Yes — absolutely. A normal resting rate in dogs is under 30 breaths per minute. Download a free app and check weekly if your dog has known heart disease. A rate above 30 may signal early fluid accumulation — call us immediately.

Q  Is it an emergency if my dog is breathing very fast at rest?

A  Yes. A resting respiratory rate above 30 breaths/minute in a dog with known heart disease may signal acute congestive heart failure. Come directly to Dogwood — we are open 24/7.

Q  Will my dog need surgery for heart disease?

A  Surgery is rarely needed for the most common forms of canine heart disease, which are managed medically. Some structural abnormalities — like pulmonic stenosis — can be treated with balloon valvuloplasty. Our cardiology team discusses all options specific to your dog’s diagnosis.

Q  How do I get a referral to Dogwood’s cardiologist?

A  Your primary vet can refer through our online portal. In addition, you can contact our team of skilled dog cardiologists in Atlanta directly by phone at (404) 609-1234. We can also be reached by email at info@dogwood.vet. Dr. Johnathan Goodwin leads our cardiology services.