An enlarged heart (cardiomegaly) in a dog does not automatically mean it is in congestive heart failure (CHF), but it is a serious indicator of underlying heart disease. While it means the heart is working too hard or damaged, many dogs with enlarged hearts can live for years without progressing to CHF.

How long can a dog live with an enlarged heart?

Life Expectancy of Dogs with Enlarged Hearts

Unfortunately, most dogs with signs of congestive heart failure when they are diagnosed die as a result of the disease within six months. In the most severe cases, some dogs may survive only weeks to a few months.

Is an enlarged heart the same as heart failure?

Cardiomegaly means your heart has grown abnormally large due to damage or other diseases that make it work too hard. It isn't the same as heart failure, but it may lead to heart failure if left untreated.

How to help a dog with an enlarged heart?

Treatment involves medications such as diuretics, ACE inhibitors, and beta-blockers to reduce fluid buildup and improve heart function. Regular veterinary monitoring, dietary management with low sodium, and controlled exercise are essential to manage the condition and improve quality of life.

What is the most common cause of enlarged heart in dogs?

This condition commonly results from valve problems or a weakened heart muscle. Certain breeds like Doberman Pinschers, Boxers, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have genetic tendencies toward heart enlargement. Age is another significant factor, with middle-aged to older dogs more frequently affected.

Congestive Heart Failure & Enlarged Heart in Dogs

Is it good to walk a dog with an enlarged heart?

For most dogs in the early stages of heart disease, yes. Daily, slow, short walks are usually encouraged to maintain body condition and happiness. The key is monitoring their tolerance level and ensuring the activity remains low-impact.

At what age do dogs get congestive heart failure?

It appears when the valves within your pet's heart are abnormal, which causes leakage and—over time—an enlarged heart. This disease typically affects 10% of dogs from ages 5 to 8, 25% of dogs ages 9 to 12, and 30-35% of dogs 13 and over. Unfortunately, it's often an early sign of heart failure.

How do vets check for congestive heart failure?

Imaging techniques include x-rays; electrocardiography (recording electrical activity of the heart); and echocardiography (a type of ultrasonography). Most cardiovascular diseases can be highly suspected by physical examination and x-rays. X-rays are also used to monitor the progression of congestive heart failure.

What can mimic congestive heart failure in dogs?

Behavior Changes – Pet owners also may see behavior changes in dogs with heart disease, including poor appetite, isolation and a reluctance to play or engage in previously pleasurable activities. Signs of heart disease can mimic those seen with other diseases such as arthritis, seizures and chronic lung disease.

What medication is used for dogs with enlarged heart?

Vetmedin® can be used to treat dogs that have asymptomatic MVD with an enlarged heart. By giving dogs Vetmedin® before they start to show symptoms of heart failure it is possible to: Reduce their heart size. Slow down disease progression.

Is an enlarged heart considered congestive heart failure in dogs?

There are many causes of CHF in dogs, but the two most common causes are: Mitral valve insufficiency (MVI), refers to a leaky mitral valve, which is the valve between the left atrium and the left ventricle. Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) occurs when the heart chambers enlarge and lose their ability to contract.

When to euthanize a dog with an enlarged heart?

For these pets, we often consider euthanasia when the symptoms of the disease are leading to a deteriorated quality of life at home.

What are the red flags of heart failure?

Red flag signs of heart failure, signaling an emergency, include sudden severe shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting, rapid/irregular heartbeat, and a persistent cough with pink/white phlegm, requiring immediate medical help; less severe, but urgent, signs for calling a doctor today are sudden weight gain, increased swelling, trouble sleeping flat, and worsening fatigue. These symptoms indicate fluid buildup or the heart struggling to pump effectively, often appearing as swelling in legs/belly or extreme tiredness with daily tasks, says the American Heart Association and Hartford HealthCare. 

Does an enlarged heart always mean heart failure?

An enlarged heart has trouble pumping blood efficiently. For this reason, having an enlarged heart increases your risk for heart complications, such as heart failure or stroke.

What is the main treatment for enlarged heart?

If an enlarged heart is caused by heart valve disease, surgery may be needed to repair or replace the affected valve. Coronary bypass surgery. If an enlarged heart is due to a blockage in the coronary arteries, this open-heart surgery may be done to reroute blood flow around a clogged artery.

Can an enlarged heart cause sudden death?

Cardiac arrest and sudden death.

An enlarged heart may cause the heart to beat too fast or too slow. The irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) may lead to fainting, cardiac arrest or sudden death.

Why did my dog get an enlarged heart?

A dog's heart will expand when it is unable to properly contract and push blood out to the rest of the body. Blood accumulates in the heart and puts pressure on the outer walls and valves of the heart, causing expansion and thinning of the heart walls.

How much water should a dog with CHF drink?

If your dog has a health condition that makes them prone to dehydration, they may also need more water. And, in general, larger dogs need more water. You can calculate the right amount for your dog by following the general guidance that dogs should drink 1 oz of water per pound of body weight per day.

---