Signs of Hypertension in Dogs

Hypertension in dogs can be brought on by any number of factors, and can also be exhibited via several symptoms. From more obvious symptoms, such as lack of appetite, to less obvious heart/cardiovascular issues, hypertension can be exhibited in a variety of ways. Of course, the more alert dog owners are to the symptoms of hypertension, the more likely they are to solicit veterinary help, increasing their dogs' future health prospects.

  1. Blindness

    • Blindness is one of the major signs of hypertension in dogs. According to veterinarian Dr. C.N. Newman, there are several ways in which you can detect blindness in your dog. Your pet's pupils remain dilated and unresponsive to bright light. And the dog continually bumps into objects they would otherwise be able to sidestep.

      Using an Opthalmascope, your veterinarian can also detect several ocular irregularities, including swelling, inflammation and retina detachment.

    Heart Problems

    • There are several defects in a dog's cardiovascular system that can cause hypertension. Signs of cardiovascular irregularities causing hypertension include heart arrhythmia, heart murmurs, weak pulse, sluggish disposition, or a lack of appetite.

    Brain-Related Issues

    • There are several issues in the central nervous system that can cause hypertension, and there are several ways pet owners can detect these issues in their dogs. Signs of brain-related issues as pertaining to hypertension include loss of typical motor function, a decrease in blinking, problems chewing and swallowing, awkward walking or posture, incontinence, and seizures.

    Other Issues

    • According to PetPlace.com, other signs of hypertension in dogs include depression and other behavioral changes.

    Treatment

    • PetPlace.com describes several ways in which hypertension can be treated in dogs. That includes treatment of the cause, by which a veterinarian cures the disease that is causing the dog's hypertension. Other ways in which veterinarians may treat hypertension are via drugs (including beta-blockers) or placing the dog on a diet to reduce weight and dietary sodium.