A heart murmur in dogs is an audible turbulence in blood flow within the heart, detectable with a stethoscope. While any dog can develop a heart murmur regardless of age, breed, or size, not all murmurs are cause for alarm. Some are benign, while others can signify serious underlying health issues. Recognizing the signs and understanding potential dietary interventions is crucial for managing your dog’s heart health. This guide delves into what heart murmurs are, their various causes, symptoms to watch for, and how a vet-approved diet can play a role in their management.
What is a Heart Murmur in Dogs?
A heart murmur is essentially an abnormal sound heard during a cardiac examination, caused by irregular blood flow through the heart chambers or valves. Similar to the human heart, a dog’s heart has four chambers: the right and left atria at the top, and the right and left ventricles below. Blood circulates through these chambers, becoming oxygenated in the lungs and then pumped to the rest of the body. Issues with the heart valves, the muscular walls, or the overall pumping action can lead to the turbulent blood flow that creates a murmur. Veterinarians classify the intensity of heart murmurs on a scale of I to VI, with Grade I being the mildest and Grade VI being the most severe.
Causes of Heart Murmurs in Dogs
Heart murmurs in dogs can be broadly categorized into two types: ‘innocent’ or ‘physiologic’ murmurs, and ‘pathologic’ murmurs, which indicate disease.
More specifically, murmurs can arise from:
- Heart Structural Abnormalities: These include conditions like valve disease, where valves may be narrowed or leaky, or inflammation of the heart. Some of these abnormalities are congenital (present at birth), while others develop over time.
- Extracardiac Conditions: Health issues outside the heart can also affect blood flow and cause murmurs. These include anemia (low red blood cell count), hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), hypoproteinemia (low protein levels in the blood), heartworm disease, and infections. These conditions can alter the normal flow of blood through the heart or even impair its function.
- Innocent Heart Murmurs: These are benign and do not cause harm. Murmurs heard in puppies may sometimes disappear as they mature. However, regular veterinary check-ups are still recommended to ensure these murmurs do not indicate a developing problem.
Symptoms of Heart Murmurs in Dogs
While a stethoscope is required to directly detect a heart murmur, the underlying conditions causing them can manifest in several observable symptoms. It’s important to note that a dog might have a heart murmur without showing any outward signs of illness. Routine veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection and monitoring.
Signs and symptoms to watch for include:
- Persistent coughing
- Lethargy or unusual tiredness
- Reduced tolerance for exercise
- Abnormal breathing patterns or excessive panting
- General weakness
- Pale gums
- Swollen abdomen
- Occasional episodes of collapse
Vet-Approved Diet for Managing Heart Murmurs
A vet-approved diet focuses on minimizing risks associated with heart conditions like dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and supporting overall heart health. This often involves avoiding certain ingredients linked to heart problems and incorporating foods that promote cardiovascular function.
Key dietary recommendations include:
1. Avoid Grain-Free Diets
Many grain-free diets are high in ingredients like peas, lentils, and potatoes. These ingredients have been an area of concern for the FDA since 2018 due to a potential link with canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). DCM causes the heart’s chambers to enlarge, impairing its ability to pump blood effectively. It is believed that legumes and pulses in these diets may interfere with the body’s absorption of taurine, an amino acid vital for heart health. Opting for foods that include gluten-free grains like oats, which have not been associated with DCM, is generally recommended.
2. Increase Antioxidant Intake
Antioxidants play a crucial role in maintaining heart health by protecting cells from damage. Foods rich in antioxidants, such as cranberries, provide beneficial compounds like Vitamin C, quercetin, and myricetin. Vitamin C, in particular, can help prevent arterial stiffening, improve oxygenation of the heart, and enhance overall heart function. Research suggests that adequate Vitamin C intake is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.
3. Supplement with Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are well-known for their heart-protective benefits. Studies have shown that omega-3 supplementation can improve heart rhythm in dogs with certain heart conditions, such as myxomatous mitral valve disease, and help manage the progression of the disease. These fatty acids help maintain artery health and contribute to overall well-being in dogs. High-quality fish oil supplements are a good source of omega-3s.
4. Include Coconut Glycerin
Glycerin, a component found in fats and also produced by the body, has been linked to improved athletic performance and heart health. Research indicates that coconut glycerin can be a heart-healthy supplement for dogs, potentially enhancing cardiovascular function.
Feeding a Dog with Heart Murmurs
Learning that your dog has a heart murmur can be concerning, but making informed dietary changes can be a proactive step. By avoiding grain-free diets that contain peas and legumes, increasing antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, and considering supplements like coconut glycerin, you can support your dog’s heart health. Formulated dog foods that prioritize whole-food ingredients and include these beneficial components can offer a convenient and effective way to manage your dog’s diet.
The heart is vital to your dog’s life, and by implementing these dietary strategies and maintaining regular veterinary care, you can help maximize the time and quality of life you share with your beloved companion.
