How to Maintain Your Dog’s Heart Health

When you have a pup in your life, you want to ensure you do everything you can to keep them with you for as long as possible. One of the ways to ensure that your dog has a long and healthy life is to maintain their heart health. Heart health for dogs is one of the most crucial elements of how long they'll be with us and how happy they are. A dog with a healthy heart is more likely to be active and energetic, able to do zoomies and play until their heart's content.

Here, we will look at some things you can do to ensure your dog's heart health. We have you covered, from preventative measures to the right food to pick.

A Proper Diet

A proper diet is essential to keeping your dog healthy in more ways than just one. Heart healthy dog food generally does more than just promote good heart health, but can provide benefits for vision, mood, and coat. Of course, one of the significant indicators that your dog might develop heart problems is weight. This means that not only do you want your diet for your dog to be healthy, but you want to keep the treats healthy too. If you are unsure how to establish a heart healthy diet for your dog, it is best to contact your vet. They will get you and your pup on the right track!

Exercise

If you are wondering how to prevent heart disease in dogs, your first answer will come in the form of activity. One of the best ways to keep a heart healthy is to ensure it is active for a certain amount of time in the day. After all, the heart is a muscle, and the stronger the muscle, the longer it will last. From daily walks to playing catch, any activity is suitable for your dog, especially as they age. As pups, they have limitless energy, but as they grow older, they might start to slow down. This is when it is crucial to take those strolls around the neighborhood.

Even Dogs Don't Like To Go To The Dentist

But, the fact of the matter is that they need to. Oral health goes hand in hand with heart health. When bacteria, plaque, and tartar build up in a dog's mouth, it can cause infection, and that infection can get into your pet's bloodstream. This can be very dangerous to a dog's overall heart health. That is why taking care of their oral health is crucial.

Don't Forget the Vet, Either

While you want to ensure that your dog's oral health is in order, you also want to ensure that its overall health is in order!

Supplements

Dogs are susceptible to diseases that we are not, so it is a good idea to provide them with dog heart health supplements. For example, heartworm is a disease that affects dogs and can be very dangerous for them. Pills or "snacks" taken regularly can help your dog stave off this disease or other illnesses that similarly affect the dog's heart. Additionally, considering the potential benefits, some pet owners explore giving your dog CBD for the first time as a supplement for managing certain health conditions. Always consult with a veterinarian before introducing new supplements or medications to your dog's routine to ensure safety and appropriateness for their health needs.

Know The Signs

Then, of course, one of the most important things in keeping your dog's heart healthy is knowing the signs of heart disease. Understanding the symptoms allows you to act quickly if you spot any of them. You should still schedule regular vet visits, but it is also vital for you to be the first line of defense. Signs of heart disease include:

• A dry cough after playing or exercising. This cough may get worse during the night.
• If your dog appears short of breath after exercising or even at rest, this could be a sign of heart disease.
• Swollen gums. This is a sign of infection and should be taken seriously.
• Weight loss is not caused by diet or exercise. Generally, this happens rapidly.
• Fainting and fatigue.
• Swollen belly.

If your dog is showing any hints of these symptoms, it is best to immediately make an appointment with your veterinarian. Heart disease is scary, but if caught early, it can be managed, and your dog will still live a full and wonderful life.

If you have questions about heart health for dogs, please contact Forever Vets today!