Common Heart Conditions in Dogs: What Brighton Dog Owners Should Know

Why heart health matters for dogs

Heart disease is one of the more common conditions we see in ageing dogs, but it can affect dogs of any breed or size. Many heart conditions develop gradually and may not cause obvious symptoms in the early stages, which is why regular veterinary checks are so important.

At Middle Brighton Vet, we routinely assess heart health during consultations and health checks for dogs across Brighton and the Bayside area. Early detection allows us to monitor changes over time and support dogs before problems become more serious.

Common heart conditions in dogs

Some of the most frequently diagnosed heart conditions in dogs include:

· Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) This is the most common form of heart disease in dogs, particularly in small to medium-sized breeds and older dogs. It occurs when the mitral valve does not close properly, allowing blood to leak backwards within the heart. Over time, this can place extra strain on the heart muscle.

· Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) DCM is more commonly seen in larger dog breeds. In this condition, the heart muscle becomes weakened and enlarged, reducing its ability to pump blood efficiently. Both conditions can eventually progress to heart failure if left unmanaged, but many dogs live comfortably for years with appropriate monitoring and treatment.

· Heart murmurs A heart murmur is an extra or unusual sound heard during a veterinary examination. Murmurs are not a diagnosis on their own, but they can be an early indicator of underlying heart disease. Some murmurs are mild and may simply be monitored over time, while others require further investigation. Detecting a murmur early allows us to track changes and intervene if needed. Both conditions can eventually progress to heart failure if left unmanaged, but many dogs live comfortably for years with appropriate monitoring and treatment.

Signs of heart disease in dogs

Heart disease can be subtle in its early stages. Signs to watch for include:

· Persistent coughing, especially at night or after exercise

· Reduced stamina or tiring more quickly on walks

· Rapid or laboured breathing

· Loss of appetite or weight loss

· Fainting or collapse in more advanced cases

If you notice any of these changes, it’s important to book a veterinary assessment.

How heart disease is diagnosed

Diagnosis may involve a combination of:

· Listening to the heart for murmurs or rhythm changes

· Chest X-rays to assess heart size and lungs

· Ultrasound (echocardiography) to evaluate heart structure and function

· Blood tests where appropriate

These tools help us determine the type and severity of heart disease and guide treatment decisions.

Living well with heart disease

While heart disease cannot usually be cured, it can often be managed effectively. Treatment plans may include medication, dietary adjustments and regular rechecks. Many dogs continue to enjoy a good quality of life with the right care and monitoring.

Our Brighton veterinary team works closely with owners to tailor treatment plans based on each dog’s individual needs, lifestyle and stage of disease.

When to seek urgent care

Seek veterinary attention promptly if your dog develops severe breathing difficulty, collapses, or shows sudden weakness. These signs may indicate progression of heart disease and require urgent care.

‍