Six Ways to Keep Your Dog’s Heart Healthy

Finding out your dog has a heart defect or condition can understandably be alarming, but a heart issue doesn’t necessarily mean a shortened lifespan. With proper care and management, many dogs with heart challenges continue to live high-quality, fulfilling lives.

Heart problems in dogs range widely by cause and severity. Some are inherited and present at birth, while others develop as dogs age. Taking proactive precautions can protect your dog's heart, help delay problems, or manage existing conditions effectively.

In the U.S., about 15-20% of senior dogs face some form of heart disease. Staying informed and seeking early intervention play crucial roles in maintaining your dog's heart health and overall happiness.

Here are six essential ways to keep your dog's heart functioning well throughout life, based on up-to-date veterinary insights and breed-specific risks.

1. Know Your Dog’s Breed-Specific Heart Risks

Different breeds are susceptible to particular heart conditions. For instance, Standard Poodles can be prone to patent ductus arteriosus, while English Springer Spaniels might have ventricular septal defects more commonly.

Researching if your dog's breed has a tendency for certain cardiac issues helps you recognize early warning signs and discuss screening options with your veterinarian. Genetic testing has become increasingly accessible in the U.S. and can detect inherited heart diseases before symptoms appear.

If your dog’s breed or lineage has known heart concerns, talk to your veterinarian about tailored screening and monitoring plans.

2. Feed a Balanced, Heart-Friendly Diet

A diet matched to your dog’s size, age, and activity level is vital for both general health and heart wellness. Foods rich in quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, taurine, and antioxidants promote heart muscle health and minimize inflammation.

Limit treats high in fats or sugars as these can add unnecessary strain on the heart. Instead, choose lean, nutritious treats to reward your dog occasionally and support good nutrition.

3. Manage Your Dog’s Weight to Prevent Heart Strain

Excess weight in dogs increases the risk of heart disease by causing fat to build up around heart valves and arteries, forcing the heart to work harder to pump blood effectively.

Maintaining a healthy weight through portion control and regular weighing reduces cardiovascular stress. Your veterinarian can help customize a dietary plan and assist you in tracking your dog’s weight over time.

4. Provide Appropriate Exercise Based on Breed and Age

Physical activity strengthens the heart muscle and boosts circulation, but needs to be tailored. Different breeds and life stages require different types and amounts of exercise.

A balanced mix of energetic play, short cardio sessions, and longer peaceful walks builds endurance and supports heart health. Exercise also helps your dog manage weight, benefiting cardiac function.

5. Safeguard Against Heartworm and Other Parasites

In the U.S., heartworm is a serious parasite transmitted by mosquitoes that invades the heart and blood vessels, leading to major heart and lung damage if untreated.

Consult your veterinarian about year-round heartworm prevention, especially if you live in or travel to endemic regions like the southern states. Regular parasite screenings also help detect issues early and protect your dog’s cardiovascular system.

6. Don’t Miss Routine Veterinary Exams

Annual visits to the veterinarian play a key role in spotting early heart conditions by checking for murmurs, irregular heartbeats, or abnormal rhythms. Advanced diagnostics like echocardiograms and electrocardiograms guide diagnosis and treatment decisions.

Even if your dog appears well, consistent veterinary care is critical for monitoring heart status and overall wellness as your dog ages.

Thanks to advancements in veterinary cardiology, including breed-specific screening programs, heart-healthy nutrition, and cutting-edge surgeries at specialty clinics, dogs with heart conditions today enjoy better outcomes and longer lives than ever before.

Responsible ownership, vigilant veterinarian care, and informed lifestyle choices remain the most effective ways to support your dog’s heart health through their lifetime.