Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is one of the most important heart diseases in the dog. Large breed dogs such as Doberman pinschers, Great Danes, Irish Wolfhounds, Boxers, Golden retrievers and Labrador retrievers are most commonly affected with this disease. It is also common in Cocker Spaniels. This disease is rare in small dogs. Dogs are usually affected between four and ten years of age, but Dobermans, Great Danes, and Boxers may be affected earlier in life.
This disease occurs when there is a progressive dilation of the chambers of the heart leading to a lower cardiac output. This means that the blood is not adequately being circulated throughout the body, which can result in muscle weakness and muscle death. Clinical signs of dilated cardiomyopathy include: weakness, exercise intolerance, lethargy, cough, anorexia, ascites (fluid-filled abdomen), difficulty breathing and syncope(passing out).
If your veterinarian suspects your dog has dilated cardiomyopathy, x-rays and an echocardiogram can be done to aid in the diagnosis. Echocardiography is the diagnostic test of choice for a definitive diagnosis. An electrocardiogram (ECG) may also be performed to evaluate any possible arrythmias your dog may have as a result of the DCM. There are many treatment regimens for DCM, but often the goals of therapy are the same. These are to reduce fluid accumulation, improve cardiac output, decrease damage to the heart muscle, and prolong survival time.
Unfortunately, this is a very serious disease and most dogs who have it do not live more than six months beyond the diagnosis. Treatment can be used to help make your dog's remaining months more comfortable and enjoyable, so you can have some final happy moments with your pet.