Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DMC) in Dogs
February is American Heart Month which is an appropriate month to raise cardiovascular disease since we also celebrate Valentine’s Day on the 14th. There are pink and red hearts displayed everywhere and I just purchased Valentine’s Day cards and festive t-shirts for my granddaughter. All these hearts got me thinking about heart health in dogs, specifically dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). I have a friend whose dog was diagnosed with DCM so I have done some research and believe this is the perfect time to write about DCM in dogs.
Let’s jump right in and talk about what DCM is, the symptoms, how it’s diagnosed and treatment option.
What is dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)?
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a disorder of the heart and primarily affects the heart muscle. It can lead to enlargement and weakening of the heart muscle, with the left ventricle being most affected. When this happens, blood cannot be pumped properly, which can lead to arrhythmias, chronic heart failure (CHF), and even death if left untreated.
What are some breeds that are predisposed to DCM?
- Doberman
- Boxer
- Great Dane
- Giant Schnauzer
- Irish Wolfhound
- Newfoundland
- Saint Bernard
- Labrador Retriever
- Standard Schnauzer
- Cocker Spaniel
What are the symptoms of DCM?
- Breathing rapidly while at rest or asleep (over 35 breaths per minute)
- Greater effort needed to breathe
- Restless sleeping
- Coughing
- Gagging
- Weakness
- Reduced ability to exercise
- Collapse
- Fainting
- Decreased appetite
- Weight loss
- Swollen abdomen
- Lethargy
How is dilated cardiomyopathy diagnosed?
- Using a stethoscope to examine sounds from the chest
- Blood work and urinalysis – general blood panel and urinalysis, heart disease can affect renal function.
- Cardiac biomarkers including Cardiac Troponin I and ProBNP – the Cardiac Troponin II measures a protein released into the blood when heart cells (cardiomyocytes) are injured or die. ProBNP measures a hormone secreted by the heart's ventricles in response to increased stretch, stress, or pressure overload
- ECG – echocardiogram records the electrical signals of the heart.
- X-rays – films show the size of the heart.
- Ultrasound - reveals chamber dilation, ventricular walls, systolic function, and ejection fraction (how well the left ventricle is pumping blood).
What is treatment for DCM?
Your vet will go over the best treatment plan for your dog but the following are common treatments for dogs with DCM.
- Pimobendan – strengthens heart contractions and reduces the heart workload.
- Diuretics – these medications help remove excess fluids from the body.
- ACE-inhibitors – help the heart pump more effectively by widening blood vessels, reducing blood pressure and lowering resistance.
- Cardiac glucosides – strengthens heart contractions and controls atrial fibrillation.
- Anti-arrhythmic – helps to maintain normal heart rhythm and manages ventricular tachycardia.
Supplemental therapy can help as well. Below are supplements that can help with slowing DCM and overall heart health.
Taurine: is a conditionally essential amino acid essential for heart health; deficiency may lead to DCM, so supplementation is often advised regardless of confirmed deficiency.
L-Carnitine is a conditional essential amino acid that facilitates energy production within the heart muscle. Often suggested to supplement in treatment of heart disease.
Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA): reduces muscles loss and inflammation, can help stabilize heart rhythm.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): An antioxidant that supports cellular energy production and can be beneficial for dogs with DCM.
Antioxidants: Antioxidant supplementation can be helpful in managing oxidative stress associated with dilated cardiomyopathy.
B complex vitamins: essential vitamins that help maintain muscle tone, aids in heart health, Riboflavin is an antioxidant.
Magnesium: an essential mineral that is crucial to maintaining normal heart rhythm and function, aids in lowering blood pressure. Please note that blood work should be done before supplementing with magnesium.
In summary, dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a serious heart condition that affects certain giant, large and some smaller dog breeds. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage the condition and improve the quality of life for a dog with DCM. With the proper care, including medications and supplements, dogs with DCM can continue to live happy and fulfilling lives.
If you have any concerns about your dog's heart health, don't hesitate to consult your veterinarian. They can provide the necessary guidance and support to ensure your pup stays healthy and happy.
I hope this blog helped educate you on DCM in dogs and that you feel more informed!
And if you need a taurine supplement, PetTest offers Pulsar – Heart Health Supplement. It is made in the USA with human-grade ingredients.
USA link: https://shoppettest.com/pulsar-taurine-heart-health-supplement/
Canada link: https://pettest.ca/pulsar-taurine-heart-health-supplement/
UK link: coming soon!
Until next time stay comfy, don’t stress and you got this!
Michelle Miller-Matlock
AAHA Certified Diabetes Educator
Founder/Administrator of DDO: Diabetic Dog Owners University
Administrator of Diabetic Dog Owners on Facebook
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