Managing Elderly Dog Heart Enlargement and Coughs for E

Research indicates that in a group of 10 small dogs, there may be 4 to 5 with varying degrees of heart issues.

Cardiomyopathy is one of the most common heart diseases in dogs, with the Bichon Frise breed particularly susceptible, with an incidence rate as high as 70%! If you have a small dog like a Bichon Frise, Pomeranian, Chihuahua, or Teddy Bear, especially if they are over 7 years old, it's crucial to keep a close eye on their heart health.

Signs of Canine Cardiomyopathy:

• Difficulty breathing, wheezing, and coughing

• Decreased appetite and weight loss

• Abdominal swelling and fluid in the chest and abdomen

• Poor mood and reduced exercise tolerance

• Weakness in the limbs

• Arrhythmias

• Blue tongue and pale gums

• Sudden fainting or seizures

What to Do If Your Older Dog with Cardiomyopathy Always Coughs?

1. Diet Adjustment

• Lowsodium diet: Reduce salt intake by choosing lowsodium dog food or prescription diets, and avoid highsodium foods like ham and salted fish.

• Lowfat diet: Avoid feeding your dog too much highfat meat or treats.

• Highprotein diet: Provide your dog with highprotein foods to maintain muscle health.

• Small, frequent meals: Use a timed feeder to ensure your dog eats small, frequent meals, reducing the burden on their digestive system.

• Weight control: Avoid metabolic issues that can increase heart strain or insufficient blood flow due to fat accumulation.

2. Lifestyle Management

• Moderate exercise: Regular, moderate exercise helps maintain your dog's weight and cardiovascular health, but avoid overly vigorous activities.

• Stress reduction: Keep the indoor environment quiet and try to minimize stress and scares for your dog.

3. Medication

• CardioNite (Pimobendan Chewable Tablets): Pimobendan is a powerful heart medication that enhances myocardial contractility, increases cardiac output, and delays or improves heart failure. It is widely recommended for dogs with cardiomyopathy and requires continuous use.

• Coenzyme Q10: This nutrient can help improve heart function and can be used longterm.

• CardioNite (Enalapril Maleate Tablets): By inhibiting angiotensinconverting enzyme, it produces local vasodilation, inhibits the release of inflammatory mediators, and is suitable for congestive heart failure and valvular degeneration.

• Diuril (Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets): A diuretic used during periods of fluid retention, it promotes urination and reduces the burden on the cardiovascular system. However, longterm use may lead to low blood pressure and hypokalemia, so it's important to discontinue it as needed.

4. Regular Checkups

Every 3 to 6 months, take your dog to the vet for a checkup to monitor cardiovascular function and adjust medication.

Make sure to provide your dog with plenty of companionship and affection to reduce their stress and anxiety.

Also, keep a close eye on your dog's health. If you notice symptoms like rapid breathing or fainting, seek medical attention promptly.