Dogs suffer from heart problems for a variety of reasons, from viral infections to genetic conditions to old age. Whatever the cause of your dog's heart problem, seek veterinary treatment to treat and manage the condition. Watch your dog closely for signs of heart problems to recognize them early on.
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Coughing
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Your dog may cough if she is experiencing heart problems. When the heart begins to function abnormally or fail, it creates an excess of fluid. This fluid backs up into the lungs, leading to a cough. The excess fluid may also press on the windpipe and cause a dog to cough.
Overly Tired
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Dogs that are excessively tired may be experiencing heart problems. A failing or malfunctioning heart cannot keep up with a dog's active lifestyle, making him lie around or become more lethargic than usual.
Poor Appetite
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Dogs that feel ill in any way, including due to heart problems, often lose their appetites. A poor appetite is a symptom of other health issues in dogs, but could signify a heart problem in combination with one or more of the other symptoms mentioned in this article.
Abnormal Pulse
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Dogs with heart problems often have an odd, abnormal pulse rate. The pulse may feel weaker than normal, become very rapid or both. A change in pulse is always an indication to see the veterinarian.
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