Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs

Congestive heart failure (CHF) happens when a dog’s heart can no longer pump blood efficiently. As a result, fluid can build up in the lungs, chest, or abdomen, making it harder for your dog to breathe and get enough oxygen.

CHF may affect the left or right side of the heart, and while it can impact your dog’s daily energy and well-being, many dogs can still stay active and comfortable with early recognition of symptoms and proper care. In this article, we’ll explore congestive heart failure in dogs, so you can spot early signs and support your furry friend’s health and vitality.

Left-sided Congestive Heart Failure (LS-CHF)

This is the most common form of CHF in dogs, occurring when the left side of the heart struggles to pump blood efficiently to the body. As a result, fluid builds up in the lungs, causing coughing and breathing problems.

Right-sided Congestive Heart Failure (RS-CHF)

Right-sided CHF happens when the right side of the heart struggles to pump blood to the lungs. This leads to fluid buildup in the abdomen or legs, causing swelling.

How to Recognise Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs

CHF in dogs is a life-threatening emergency. Visit a vet clinic immediately if you notice these signs and symptoms:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Persistent coughing
• Fatigue and inability to exercise
• Swollen belly
• Fainting or collapsing
• Restlessness at night or pacing before bedtime
• Loss of appetite
• Increased heart rate

CHF Stages in Dogs

Congestive heart failure is classified using a staging system to help veterinarians determine the severity of the disease and plan the best course of treatment.

• Stage A – At this stage, the dog is at high risk for developing heart disease but shows no structural changes or symptoms yet.
• Stage B – Structural heart disease is present, but the dog has not yet shown any signs of heart failure.
• Stage C – The dog is currently showing or has previously shown symptoms of heart failure.
• Stage D – The condition has progressed despite standard treatments, and symptoms are more difficult to manage.

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What Causes Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs?

Congestive heart failure (CHF) happens when a dog’s heart can’t pump blood as efficiently as it should. This can happen for several reasons, and understanding them can help you identify risks early.

Common Causes

• Mitral Valve Insufficiency (MVI) – This condition occurs when the valve between the heart’s chambers becomes leaky, causing blood to flow backwards and strain the heart. It is especially common in small breeds such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Dachshunds and Poodles.
• Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) – In DCM, the heart muscle becomes stretched and weakened, reducing its ability to pump blood efficiently. Large breeds such as Dobermans, Boxers, and Great Danes are prone to this condition.

Other Possible Causes

• Congenital Cardiac Defects – Structural problems present from birth can make the heart work harder.
• Heartworm Disease – This mosquito-borne parasitic infection damages both the heart and lungs, eventually leading to heart failure.
• Arrhythmias – Abnormal heart rhythms disrupt the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently.
• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) – Elevated blood pressure forces the heart to work harder, which weakens the heart muscle over time.
• Tumours – Growths in or around the heart or lungs can interfere with normal heart function and contribute to heart failure.

Diagnosing CHF in Dogs

Finding out if your dog has congestive heart failure (CHF) usually involves a careful, step-by-step process to confirm the condition and understand what’s causing it.

• Physical Examination – Your veterinary doctor will start by listening to your dog’s heart and lungs for murmurs, irregular rhythms, or signs of fluid buildup. They’ll also check for other clues, like a swollen belly or weak pulses.
• Chest X-rays – X-rays help identify an enlarged heart or fluid accumulation in the lungs, both of which are common indicators of CHF.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG) – This test tracks your dog’s heart rhythm and helps detect irregular beats or arrhythmias.
• Echocardiogram (Ultrasound) – An ultrasound lets the vet see a moving image of the heart, showing how well it’s working and identifying the specific cause of heart failure.
• Blood and Urine Tests – These tests give insights into the dog’s overall health and help rule out other conditions that may contribute to or complicate CHF.

Treatment for Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs

CHF is a chronic, progressive condition that cannot be fully cured. However, a veterinarian may recommend certain treatments to manage symptoms, slow disease progression, and improve quality of life. Treatment usually involves a combination of approaches:

• Medications – Most dogs with CHF take a combination of medications to help the heart pump more efficiently and reduce strain.
• Oxygen Therapy – For severe cases, supplemental oxygen can make breathing easier and relieve discomfort.
• Dietary Management – A low-sodium diet helps prevent fluid buildup and supports heart health.
• Exercise Restriction – Limiting strenuous activity prevents the heart from overexerting while keeping your dog safe.
• Mitral Valve Repair – For dogs with CHF caused by mitral valve disease, Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces backflow and improves heart function without open-heart surgery.
• Regular Veterinary Check-ups – Ongoing monitoring ensures medications and care plans are adjusted as your dog’s condition changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can CHF go away on its own, or is it permanent?

Congestive heart failure (CHF) does not resolve on its own. It is a permanent and progressive condition in dogs. However, with proper management—including medications, a tailored diet and regular veterinary check-ups—many dogs can live more comfortably and enjoy an improved quality of life.

What foods should I avoid feeding my dog with CHF?

Dogs with CHF should steer clear of high-sodium foods, as too much salt can cause fluid retention and make symptoms worse. Stick to low-sodium diets specially formulated for heart health, as recommended by your veterinarian.

Is CHF contagious for humans or other pets?

No, CHF is not contagious. It is caused by underlying heart problems, not an infection, so neither humans nor other pets are at risk.

How long can a dog live with CHF?

Life expectancy varies depending on the cause, stage of the disease, and how well your dog responds to treatment. With careful management, many dogs can live comfortably for 6 to 18 months, and some may even enjoy several good years after diagnosis.

Is congestive heart failure in dogs painful?

CHF itself is not always painful, but symptoms like breathing difficulties, coughing, and fatigue can be uncomfortable. Early detection and treatment help ease these symptoms, keeping your dog more comfortable and active.

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