Definition

Heart Murmurs in Giant Breed Dogs: Definition

Clinical Definition of a Heart Murmur

A heart murmur is an abnormal sound heard during a heartbeat when blood flows turbulently through the heart or its valves. Normally, a healthy heart produces two distinct sounds—often described as “lub-dub”—created by the closing of the heart’s valves as blood moves in and out of the chambers. A heart murmur, however, introduces additional sounds—like a whooshing, swishing, or humming noise—that can be heard when a veterinarian listens to the heart with a stethoscope.

Heart murmurs are not diseases themselves but symptoms of underlying cardiac or circulatory conditions. These conditions may range from harmless, innocent murmurs to more severe issues like valve defects, heart enlargement, or congenital abnormalities.

---

What Causes the Sound of a Heart Murmur?

The unusual sounds associated with heart murmurs occur due to turbulent blood flow. This happens when:

• Blood moves too quickly through the heart or vessels.
• Valves fail to close properly, allowing regurgitation (backward blood flow).
• The heart has structural abnormalities, such as narrowed valves, holes, or thickened walls.

---

Types of Heart Murmurs

1. Innocent (Physiologic) Murmurs
   • These murmurs are benign and typically occur in young, growing dogs or during periods of stress or fever.
   • There is no associated heart disease, and they usually resolve as the dog matures.
   • Often detected incidentally during routine vet exams.
2. Pathologic Murmurs
   • Pathologic murmurs indicate underlying heart problems.
   • They may stem from congenital heart defects, valve disease, or other structural heart issues.
   • Pathologic murmurs require further evaluation, monitoring, and sometimes treatment.
3. Congenital vs. Acquired Murmurs
   • Congenital murmurs: Present at birth due to heart abnormalities (e.g., patent ductus arteriosus, ventricular septal defect).
   • Acquired murmurs: Develop over time due to aging, infection, or disease (e.g., mitral valve disease, heartworm disease, or dilated cardiomyopathy).

---

The Grading System for Heart Murmurs

Veterinarians classify heart murmurs based on audibility and intensity using a Grade 1 to Grade 6 scale:

• Grade 1: Very soft, barely audible; only detected with focused listening.
• Grade 2: Soft murmur that is clearly heard with a stethoscope.
• Grade 3: Moderate murmur that is easily heard but not overly loud.
• Grade 4: Loud murmur that can be heard clearly on either side of the chest.
• Grade 5: Very loud murmur accompanied by a palpable vibration (thrill) on the chest.
• Grade 6: The loudest murmur, heard without fully placing the stethoscope on the chest, often with a strong vibration.

The grade of the murmur does not always correlate with the severity of the disease. For instance, a Grade 4 murmur may be caused by a less severe issue, while a Grade 2 murmur could indicate a significant underlying condition. Further testing, such as echocardiography, is required to determine the clinical relevance.

---

What a Heart Murmur Indicates

In giant breed dogs, heart murmurs can signify various conditions depending on their cause, location, and severity:

• Benign murmurs may occur during puppyhood or mild anemia and often resolve without treatment.
• Structural abnormalities: Issues such as thickened heart valves, narrowed vessels, or congenital defects.
• Valvular disease: Conditions like mitral valve disease, where valves leak and cause backflow of blood.
• Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM): A condition common in giant breeds where the heart’s pumping ability weakens, often associated with murmurs.
• Heartworm disease: Parasites can damage heart function, leading to turbulent blood flow and murmurs.
• Age-related degeneration: As dogs age, the valves may thicken and lose efficiency, causing murmurs.

Layman’s Definition of a Heart Murmur

In its simplest terms, a heart murmur is an unusual sound that a vet hears when listening to your dog’s heart. Instead of the usual “lub-dub,” there’s a swishing or whooshing noise, which could mean the heart isn’t pumping blood as smoothly as it should. Think of it like a leaky valve or water flowing through a narrow or uneven pipe.

Simplified Analogy:
If the heart were a drum, a murmur would be like someone tapping on it with a shaky stick instead of hitting a clean beat.

For readers: “A heart murmur doesn’t mean the heart is stopping—it’s more like it’s ‘skipping a beat’ or working with an unusual rhythm.”

Symptoms

Symptoms of Heart Murmurs in Giant Breed Dogs

Heart murmurs in giant breed dogs can be subtle or very noticeable, depending on their underlying cause and severity. In many cases, dogs may show no outward signs, especially with mild or innocent murmurs. However, as the condition progresses or if the murmur is linked to heart disease, symptoms may become more apparent.

Common Symptoms to Watch For:

1. Lethargy and Fatigue
   Giant breed dogs are often already more laid back, but if you notice your dog tiring quickly during walks or playtime, it could indicate reduced heart efficiency. Heart murmurs may disrupt blood flow, decreasing oxygen supply to tissues and causing fatigue.
2. Difficulty Breathing
   Murmurs caused by heart disease can lead to fluid buildup in the lungs (congestive heart failure), resulting in rapid breathing, panting, or struggling to catch their breath even at rest.
3. Coughing
   A persistent, soft, or hacking cough is a common symptom, especially when the murmur stems from a leaking heart valve or heart enlargement. This happens because the heart presses against the airways, irritating them.
4. Poor Appetite and Weight Loss
   Heart issues often affect energy levels and overall well-being, leading to decreased appetite, unexplained weight loss, or muscle wasting.
5. Fainting or Collapse
   Severe murmurs may reduce blood flow to the brain, causing brief fainting spells, especially during exertion. This is a red flag that requires immediate veterinary attention.

Why Use a Pet Symptom Tracker App?
If you suspect your dog may have a heart murmur or notice concerning symptoms, using a Pet Symptom Tracker app can be invaluable. These tools allow you to log changes in your dog’s behavior, such as coughing episodes, breathing patterns, energy levels, and appetite. Over time, you’ll see trends that help determine when to seek veterinary care and provide critical information for your vet. A detailed symptom record ensures your vet can make quicker, more accurate diagnoses and monitor progression.

When to Call the Vet: If you observe any combination of these symptoms—particularly coughing, fatigue, or fainting—contact your vet promptly. Early intervention can greatly improve outcomes for giant breed dogs with heart murmurs.

Prevention

Preventing Heart Murmurs in Giant Breed Dogs

Heart murmurs in giant breed dogs can result from congenital defects, heart disease, or underlying conditions like heartworms. While not all murmurs are preventable, proactive measures can reduce risks, improve heart health, and catch issues early.

---

Genetic Screening

Responsible breeding practices play a crucial role in preventing congenital heart murmurs, which are often hereditary. Giant breed dogs like Great Danes, Saint Bernards, and Newfoundlands are predisposed to heart conditions, including murmurs linked to Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) and valve defects. Breeders should conduct genetic screenings and echocardiograms on breeding dogs to ensure no underlying heart abnormalities are passed down. For dog owners, understanding a puppy’s family history can help anticipate potential heart issues.

Tip: Ask breeders for veterinary heart screening results before choosing a puppy. Responsible breeding reduces congenital heart murmurs in future generations.

---

Routine Vet Checkups

Annual vet visits are essential for giant breeds due to their susceptibility to heart conditions. During a routine checkup, your veterinarian will:

• Perform auscultation (listening to the heart with a stethoscope) to detect abnormal heart sounds.
• Recommend imaging tests, like an echocardiogram or X-rays, if any concerns arise.

Early detection of murmurs allows for monitoring and treatment before symptoms progress.

---

Diet and Exercise Management

Proper nutrition and exercise are key to supporting heart health in growing and adult dogs.

• Puppy Exercise Caution: Overexertion in growing giant breed puppies can strain the heart and joints. Encourage gentle, low-impact activities.
• Heart-Healthy Diets: Include nutrients like:
  • Taurine: Essential for heart function and preventing DCM.
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Reduce inflammation and promote heart health.
  • Balanced Calories: Prevent obesity, which strains the heart.

Discuss tailored diets with your vet to ensure your dog receives appropriate nutrition.

---

Parasite Prevention

Heartworm disease can cause serious heart murmurs and long-term damage to the heart. Preventive measures are critical:

• Administer monthly heartworm preventatives (e.g., chewables or topical treatments).
• Test annually to ensure your dog remains heartworm-free.

As referenced in our Protect Your Giant Dog from Heartworm with These Proven Methods article, heartworms block blood flow, enlarge the heart, and can create turbulent blood flow, leading to detectable murmurs. Prevention is far easier and safer than treatment.

---

Proactive Prevention Matters

By combining genetic screening, regular veterinary care, heart-conscious diets, and parasite prevention, you can significantly reduce the risk of heart murmurs in giant breed dogs. Investing in their heart health early ensures a better quality of life for these gentle giants.

Products to Help

Products to Help Manage Heart Murmurs in Giant Breed Dogs

Proper care and monitoring can help manage heart murmurs in giant breed dogs and improve their overall quality of life. Below are products, supplements, and diet options that support heart health and make life easier for owners caring for their canine companions.

---

Dietary Supplements

Taurine and L-Carnitine

1. Why It Helps: Taurine and L-carnitine are amino acids that play vital roles in heart muscle function. Deficiencies in these nutrients can lead to Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), a common condition in giant breeds. Supplementation can strengthen the heart muscle and improve cardiac function.
2. Ease of Use: Taurine and L-carnitine are available as chewable tablets, powders, or in heart-health-specific dog food formulas.
3. Example Products:
   • VetriScience Cardio-Strength Supplements.
   • Nutramax’s L-Carnitine Powder for dogs.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

2. Why It Helps: Omega-3 fatty acids, typically sourced from fish oil, have powerful anti-inflammatory properties. They help reduce inflammation around the heart and improve circulation, which is crucial for dogs with murmurs and underlying heart conditions. Omega-3s also support overall coat and joint health.
3. Ease of Use: Owners can provide omega-3s in the form of fish oil capsules, liquid oils added to food, or prescription heart-healthy diets rich in fish-based ingredients.
4. Example Products:
   • Zesty Paws Omega Bites.
   • Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet Liquid.

CoQ10 (Coenzyme Q10)

3. Why It Helps: CoQ10 is a naturally occurring antioxidant that supports energy production in the heart’s cells. It improves overall heart function, enhances energy levels, and helps combat oxidative stress that can worsen heart disease.
4. Ease of Use: CoQ10 is typically provided as soft gels or chewable, often palatable for dogs.
5. Example Products:
   • VetriScience Coenzyme Q10 for Dogs.

---

Monitors and Devices

At-Home Heart Rate Monitors

1. Purpose: Heart rate monitors allow owners to track changes in their dog’s resting heart rate, which can be an early indicator of worsening heart conditions. Some devices integrate with smartphone apps to log data.
2. Ease of Use: These devices are non-invasive, user-friendly, and provide peace of mind for owners.
3. Examples:
   • FitBark GPS & Health Monitor (tracks vitals).

Respiratory Rate Trackers

2. Purpose: Dogs with heart murmurs may experience changes in their breathing patterns, such as increased respiratory rate at rest. Devices like smart collars can monitor this and alert owners to changes that warrant a vet visit.
3. Ease of Use: These collars provide automated updates through health-tracking apps, reducing manual effort for owners.
4. Examples:
   • PetPace Health Monitoring Collar.

---

Prescription Diets and Low-Sodium Options

1. Low-Sodium Diets
2. Why It Helps: Excess sodium causes water retention, increasing blood pressure and strain on a compromised heart. A low-sodium diet reduces this stress and helps manage fluid buildup in dogs with heart murmurs or congestive heart failure.
3. Commercial Options:
   Many reputable dog food brands offer prescription low-sodium formulas specifically designed for heart health. These diets are balanced with essential nutrients while keeping sodium levels low.
4. Examples:
   • Hill’s Prescription Diet h/d (Heart Care).
   • Royal Canin Cardiac Veterinary Diet.
5. Homemade Options:
   For owners who prefer homemade meals, a low-sodium heart-friendly diet can be created under veterinary guidance. Key ingredients may include:

3. Lean proteins (e.g., boiled chicken, turkey).
4. Vegetables like carrots, green beans, or sweet potatoes (low in sodium).
5. Grains such as brown rice or oatmeal.
6. Omega-3 supplements (fish oil).

Important Note: Homemade diets must be carefully balanced to ensure dogs receive all necessary nutrients. Consult your vet or a veterinary nutritionist for recipes tailored to your dog’s needs.

---

Ease of Providing a Heart-Healthy Diet

Owners can combine the convenience of commercial low-sodium prescription diets with targeted supplementation for a comprehensive approach. For those who prefer homemade options, tools like slow cookers and pre-prepped ingredients can simplify meal preparation. Additionally, subscription-based brands now offer customized, low-sodium dog food plans delivered directly to your home.

---

Final Thoughts

Dietary supplements, smart monitoring devices, and prescription diets are valuable tools in managing heart murmurs and promoting heart health in giant breed dogs. By incorporating these products into your dog’s routine, you can proactively support their heart function and ensure they live a healthier, happier life. Always consult your veterinarian before starting any new supplements or diet changes.

Action – Call the Vet

Knowing when to contact your veterinarian about a potential heart murmur in your giant breed dog is crucial for timely intervention and effective care. Symptoms such as coughing, fainting, lethargy, or an unusually fast or labored breathing pattern should prompt a call to your vet. If your dog seems to tire quickly during activities they once enjoyed, or if you notice any abnormal changes in their behavior or appetite, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation. Routine checkups are also key moments to address concerns, especially if you or your vet suspect a murmur during an examination. Early action is always better than waiting for symptoms to worsen.

What to Prepare for the Vet Visit
Preparation can ease the vet’s diagnostic process and ensure you cover all bases. Bring a symptom timeline that details the frequency and duration of signs like coughing or fainting. Document any recent changes in your dog’s appetite, activity level, or behavior, even if they seem minor. If your dog has a history of health issues or previous diagnostics, such as X-rays or bloodwork, include those records as well.

Questions to Ask the Vet
Engage in the discussion during the visit by asking critical questions. For instance:

1. What type and grade of murmur does my dog have?
2. Could the murmur indicate an underlying heart condition?
3. What diagnostic tests are recommended to better assess the situation?
4. Are medications or lifestyle changes necessary to manage the condition?
5. How frequently should we schedule follow-ups?
6. Can this murmur be treated or effectively managed long-term?

Approaching this with both urgency and calm can help you and your vet develop the best care plan for your giant breed dog. Being informed and proactive will lead to better outcomes, helping your furry companion maintain the best quality of life.

Veterinary Treatment

When a heart murmur is suspected or diagnosed in your giant breed dog, a vet’s first priority is determining its cause and severity. Diagnostic tests often begin with a thorough physical examination, during which the vet uses a stethoscope to listen for abnormal heart sounds. The murmurs are classified based on their location (the aortic, mitral, tricuspid, or pulmonic valves) and the timing within the heartbeat. The vet listens for specific qualities in the sound—whether it’s a whooshing noise or a distinct turbulence, which can indicate the type and grade of the murmur. This is often referred to as assessing the “zones” of the heart.

Diagnostic Tests
Once the initial examination is complete, the vet may recommend advanced diagnostics to confirm the findings.

• Echocardiogram: This ultrasound provides a detailed image of the heart, showing valve function, blood flow, and any abnormalities in the heart structure.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG): Tracks the electrical activity of the heart, revealing arrhythmias or conduction issues.
• Chest X-rays: These images help determine if the heart is enlarged or if there’s fluid buildup in the lungs.
• Blood Tests: Rule out systemic conditions like anemia, infections, or thyroid imbalances that might contribute to or worsen a murmur.

Medical Management
Depending on the results, treatment may range from medication to lifestyle changes. Common medications include:

• Diuretics (e.g., furosemide): Reduces fluid buildup associated with congestive heart failure.
• ACE Inhibitors (e.g., enalapril): Helps decrease heart strain by relaxing blood vessels.
• Beta-Blockers: Helps manage irregular heart rhythms.
• Pimobendan: Improves heart muscle strength and blood flow efficiency.

Ongoing Monitoring
Regular follow-ups are essential. Your vet will likely schedule periodic echocardiograms, update medication plans, and check for any new symptoms. Giant breeds, due to their size and predisposition to cardiac issues, benefit greatly from these close monitoring efforts.

Home Remedies

While there are no home remedies that can cure or manage a heart murmur, certain supportive actions can help improve your dog’s quality of life. These strategies complement veterinary care but should never replace it.

1. Low-Sodium Diet
Reducing your dog’s sodium intake can help decrease fluid retention, which often accompanies heart issues. Opt for commercial low-sodium dog food brands, or prepare homemade meals under a veterinarian’s guidance to ensure a balanced diet. Common low-sodium options include lean proteins like chicken or turkey, along with vegetables such as green beans or sweet potatoes. Owners should work closely with their vet to determine whether a specific prescription diet is necessary for their dog’s condition.

2. Moderate, Gentle Exercise
Exercise is still important for dogs with heart murmurs, but intensity and duration must be adjusted. Gentle activities, like a slow 15- to 20-minute walk, can help maintain a healthy weight and improve circulation without overloading the heart. Avoid high-intensity play, especially in hot weather, as this can lead to unnecessary strain. Tailor the activity to your dog’s energy level, and monitor for signs of fatigue, such as heavy panting or slowing down, during and after exercise.

3. Maintain a Stress-Free Environment
Stress can exacerbate heart conditions by increasing heart rate and blood pressure. Create a calm home environment by reducing loud noises, avoiding sudden changes to routine, and providing your dog with a quiet space to rest. Anxiety-reducing products, like calming sprays or pheromone diffusers, may also help.

4. Track Symptoms Daily
Symptom tracking is essential for monitoring changes in your dog’s condition. Apps like the American Red Cross Pet First Aid app or general symptom log tools can help you note key details, such as increased coughing, fainting episodes, or appetite changes. These logs are invaluable for vet visits, allowing your veterinarian to identify trends and adjust treatment plans effectively.

While these measures provide support, always consult your vet before making significant changes to your dog’s diet or routine.

Risk Factors

Risk Factors for Heart Murmurs in Giant Breed Dogs

Heart murmurs in giant breed dogs can arise from a variety of factors, including genetics, age, breed-specific vulnerabilities, and underlying health conditions. Understanding these risk factors can help owners stay vigilant and proactive about their dog’s heart health.

Congenital Heart Defects
Certain heart murmurs are congenital, meaning they are present from birth due to structural defects in the heart. These can include conditions like patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) or subaortic stenosis (SAS), both of which are more common in large and giant breeds. Responsible breeding practices that include genetic screening are essential in reducing the risk of congenital heart murmurs in future generations.

Breed-Specific Vulnerability
Some giant breeds are more susceptible to heart murmurs and related conditions. For example:

• Great Danes are prone to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), which can cause murmurs.
• Irish Wolfhounds are known for their vulnerability to congenital heart defects.
• Newfoundlands have a higher risk of subaortic stenosis (SAS), a condition that produces a distinctive murmur.
• Saint Bernards are predisposed to several cardiac conditions, including DCM and valve-related murmurs.

Owners of these breeds should prioritize regular vet checkups to catch any signs of a murmur or heart-related illness early.

Age and Growth
In puppies, some heart murmurs are classified as “innocent” or “physiological” murmurs. These murmurs often result from a puppy’s developing cardiovascular system and typically disappear by six months of age. However, not all murmurs in young dogs are harmless, so monitoring by a veterinarian is critical.

Older dogs, on the other hand, are at higher risk of developing pathological murmurs due to age-related changes, such as valve degeneration or acquired heart diseases like DCM. Regular veterinary exams become even more crucial as your dog ages.

Underlying Health Conditions
Heart murmurs can also be secondary to other health issues, such as:

• Heartworm Disease: A preventable parasitic infection that can cause murmurs due to the strain it places on the heart and blood vessels.
• Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM): A common condition in large and giant breeds that weakens the heart muscle and often results in murmurs.

By addressing these underlying health conditions with appropriate prevention measures—such as routine heartworm prevention and monitoring for DCM—owners can reduce the risk of murmurs developing or worsening.

Understanding these risk factors equips owners with the knowledge to advocate for their dog’s health and take preventive measures, such as genetic screening, regular vet visits, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle for their canine companion.

Genetic and Breed Considerations

Genetic and Breed Considerations for Heart Murmurs in Dogs

Heart murmurs in giant breed dogs often have a genetic component, making breeding practices and screening essential to reducing the prevalence of heart-related conditions. Understanding these considerations can help owners and breeders take proactive measures to safeguard the health of future generations.

Genetics and Breeding
Congenital heart issues, such as subaortic stenosis (SAS) or patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), are often hereditary. Breeding dogs with known heart defects increases the likelihood of passing these conditions to offspring. For this reason, responsible breeding practices are critical. Before breeding, dogs should undergo thorough cardiac screening, including echocardiograms, to ensure they are free from congenital heart defects. Many breed organizations recommend this as a standard health test for breeds at risk. Eliminating affected dogs from breeding lines can significantly reduce the risk of congenital murmurs in future litters.

Breed-Specific Screening Recommendations
Giant breeds prone to heart murmurs or related cardiac conditions should undergo routine cardiac evaluations. For at-risk breeds like Great Danes, Newfoundlands, and Saint Bernards, annual screenings by a veterinary cardiologist are highly recommended. These evaluations often include auscultation (listening to the heart with a stethoscope), echocardiograms, and in some cases, advanced diagnostics like electrocardiograms (ECG).

Early screening allows for the detection of murmurs that may indicate underlying issues, enabling owners to take timely action. Puppies from breeds with a known predisposition to congenital heart conditions should also be screened early in life to rule out inherited defects.

By prioritizing genetic screening and regular evaluations, breeders and owners can work together to reduce the prevalence of inherited heart conditions, ultimately supporting the long-term health and well-being of giant breed dogs.

Psychological Factors

Psychological Factors Affecting Heart Health in Dogs

The connection between psychological well-being and physical health extends to dogs, especially those with heart murmurs. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate symptoms of heart conditions, making psychological factors an important aspect of managing your dog’s overall health.

Stress and Heart Health
Stress in dogs can manifest in various ways, including elevated heart rates (tachycardia), restlessness, and behavioral changes. For dogs with heart murmurs, these stress responses can place additional strain on an already vulnerable heart. Creating a calm and stable environment can help mitigate these effects.

To reduce stress, provide your dog with a consistent daily routine. Predictable schedules for meals, exercise, and rest can lower anxiety and help your dog feel secure. Additionally, creating a comfortable, quiet space for your dog to retreat to during loud or overwhelming situations can further support their emotional well-being.

Simple measures, such as soothing music, aromatherapy with safe dog-friendly essential oils, and interactive toys for mental engagement, can also promote relaxation. If your dog experiences chronic anxiety, consult your veterinarian about behavioral strategies or calming supplements.

Impact on the Owner and Dog Bond
Stress in dogs doesn’t just affect their health—it can also impact the bond between you and your pet. Recognizing signs of canine stress, such as panting, pacing, or a tucked tail, allows you to address their needs proactively. Addressing their stress not only improves their heart health but also reinforces your connection by building trust and reassurance.

By prioritizing stress management, you can create a happier, healthier life for your dog. Consistent care and a tranquil environment can improve their physical and emotional well-being, helping to manage the challenges of living with a heart murmur.

Surgical Options

---

Surgical Options for Heart Murmurs in Giant Breed Dogs

While heart murmurs in dogs are often managed medically, certain conditions may require surgical intervention to improve the dog’s quality of life and long-term health. For giant breed dogs, the decision for surgery often depends on the severity of the murmur, underlying causes, and overall health of the dog.

When Surgery is Needed

Surgical treatment is typically reserved for congenital heart defects or other severe structural abnormalities that cause significant murmurs. A common example is Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA), a congenital defect where a fetal blood vessel fails to close after birth. Left untreated, PDA can lead to heart failure, but surgical repair offers a high success rate, significantly improving life expectancy.

Available Procedures

1. Balloon Valvuloplasty:
   This minimally invasive procedure is used to correct valve stenosis, a condition where a heart valve is abnormally narrow. During this procedure, a catheter with a balloon is inserted into the narrowed valve and inflated to widen it, improving blood flow.
2. 2024 Cost Estimate: $3,500 to $5,500 depending on location and specialist availability.
3. Surgical Repairs for Defects:
   Heart defects like septal defects (holes in the heart walls) or valve abnormalities often require open-heart surgery or intricate corrections. These procedures are more invasive and are typically performed by board-certified veterinary surgeons.
4. 2024 Cost Estimate: $5,000 to $8,000 or more, depending on the complexity and aftercare required.

Recovery from heart surgery involves diligent post-operative care to ensure the dog’s health stabilizes. This includes:

• Close monitoring of heart rate, respiratory rate, and overall activity levels.
• Medications to manage pain, prevent infection, and support heart function.
• Regular follow-up visits with a veterinary cardiologist to assess progress and adjust treatments as necessary.

Post-surgery, many giant breed dogs experience a dramatic improvement in energy, reduced symptoms, and an enhanced quality of life. While surgical options can be costly, they offer life-changing results for dogs with severe heart conditions.

Monitoring

Monitoring Heart Murmurs in Giant Breed Dogs

Monitoring is a crucial aspect of managing heart murmurs in giant breed dogs, whether the murmur is mild, requires surgery, or results from a progressive heart condition. Regular observation and veterinary checkups ensure early detection of complications, proper medication adjustments, and an overall better prognosis for your dog.

How Long Does Monitoring Last?

Monitoring for heart murmurs is a long-term commitment. For mild murmurs, regular checks may be needed for a few months to ensure no progression. However, for more severe conditions, monitoring often becomes a lifelong responsibility, even after successful surgery. Post-surgical monitoring is essential to track recovery and watch for potential complications or recurrence of symptoms.

At-Home Monitoring Tools

Owners can play a key role in early detection of changes in their dog’s condition by using at-home tools:

• Heart Rate Checks: A normal heart rate ranges from 60-140 beats per minute, depending on the dog’s size and breed. Elevated rates could indicate stress or worsening heart function.
• Respiratory Rate Tracking: Measure your dog’s breaths while at rest; fewer than 30 breaths per minute is typical. Rapid or labored breathing could signal fluid buildup in the lungs or other complications.
• Behavioral Changes: Look for reduced energy, difficulty exercising, or changes in appetite, all of which can signal a worsening condition.

Veterinary Monitoring

Veterinary care is essential for comprehensive monitoring. Your veterinarian will likely recommend:

1. Echocardiograms or X-rays: These tools assess heart size, blood flow, and overall heart function. Regular scans (every 6–12 months) are critical for giant breeds with ongoing conditions.
2. Medication Adjustments: As heart disease progresses, medications like diuretics or ACE inhibitors may need periodic changes to maintain effectiveness.
3. Bloodwork and Additional Testing: These help identify secondary conditions, like kidney issues, which can occur with certain heart medications.

Symptom Tracking Tools

Using apps or physical logs to track your dog’s symptoms can help you and your vet stay on top of changes. Apps like PetDesk or Dog Health Tracker allow you to record vital signs, note symptoms such as coughing or lethargy, and set reminders for vet visits. The American Red Cross Pet First Aid app can also serve as a helpful resource for learning about emergency care and monitoring health metrics.

Post-Surgery Care

The Investment in Monitoring

Although monitoring requires a time and financial commitment, the payoff is significant. With diligent care, dogs with heart murmurs can enjoy longer, happier lives. Monitoring helps catch warning signs early, preventing more serious complications and improving the effectiveness of treatments.

By staying proactive and working closely with your vet, you can ensure your giant breed dog lives as comfortably as possible despite their heart condition.

How to Perform At-Home Monitoring for Giant Breed Dogs with Heart Murmurs

Heart Rate Checks

Monitoring your dog’s heart rate can be done with simple tools or specialized devices:

1. Manual Heart Rate Check:

1. Place two fingers (not your thumb) on your dog’s inner thigh where the femoral artery is located, or directly over the heart (just behind the elbow on the left side of the chest).
2. Count the beats for 15 seconds, then multiply by four to get the beats per minute (BPM).
3. Normal Range: 60–140 BPM for giant breeds. A resting rate above or below this range may signal an issue.
4. Using Devices or Apps:

2. A basic smartwatch or fitness tracker with a timer feature can help measure beats per minute after counting manually.
3. For more accuracy, pet-specific health monitors like the PetPace Smart Collar or FitBark track heart rate, activity levels, and overall wellness.
4. Vet-Recommended Devices:
5. Handheld Heart Monitors like stethoscopes designed for pets or small home ECG machines (e.g., AliveCor Vet) can provide detailed heart rate data.

Respiratory Rate Tracking

1. Manual Check:

1. Observe your dog while they are calm and resting.
2. Watch the chest rise and fall; one full cycle counts as a single breath.
3. Count the breaths for 15 seconds and multiply by four to get breaths per minute.
4. Normal Range: Under 30 breaths per minute at rest.
5. Note if the breathing appears labored, noisy, or unusually fast, which could indicate fluid buildup or other heart-related issues.
6. Tech-Assisted Tools:

2. Apps like Pet Health Monitor allow you to log respiratory rates over time and detect trends.
3. Some smart pet collars also include respiratory monitoring capabilities.

Behavioral Change Checklist

Behavioral changes are often subtle but important clues to heart health. A checklist can help owners track these symptoms:

• Energy Levels:
  • Is your dog sleeping more than usual?
  • Do they seem reluctant to exercise or climb stairs?
• Appetite:
  • Has their eating decreased or stopped entirely?
  • Are they drinking more water than normal (which could indicate medication side effects)?
• Coughing:
  • Is there a dry or wet-sounding cough, especially at night or after exercise?
• Breathing Patterns:
  • Are they panting excessively without exertion?
• Weight Changes:
  • Sudden weight loss or swelling (especially in the abdomen) could indicate fluid retention.
• Mood and Behavior:
  • Is your dog more withdrawn or irritable?

Apps or Tools for Tracking

• PetDesk: Offers symptom tracking, medication reminders, and appointment scheduling.
• DogLog: Allows detailed notes on health changes, activity, and symptoms.
• Red Cross Pet First Aid: Includes guides for symptom checking and emergency advice.
• FitBark: Tracks activity, sleep, and wellness metrics, helping you detect subtle changes in behavior.

Summary

Heart rate and respiratory rate checks can be done manually with a timer or by using specialized devices like pet health monitors or smart collars. A behavioral checklist and apps for tracking symptoms can help you notice trends and share detailed updates with your veterinarian. Combining these methods ensures you’re providing the best at-home care for your giant breed dog.

Emergency Contact

Emergency Contacts for Giant Breed Dogs with Heart Murmurs

When to Call the Vet Before a Heart Murmur is Diagnosed

If your dog was acting normal but suddenly collapses or displays severe symptoms, take immediate action:

---

1. Steps to Follow in an Emergency:

• Check for Breathing: Look for chest movements or feel for breath from the nose.
• Pulse Check: Attempt to locate the femoral pulse on the inner thigh. If there’s no pulse or breathing, begin CPR (if trained).
• Secure Transport: Ensure your dog is stable and safe for transport to the vet. A harness or blanket can help you carry larger dogs.

2. What to Tell the Vet:

• Timeline: Explain the events leading to the collapse (e.g., fainting after exercise).
• Visible Symptoms: Mention signs like bluish gums (cyanosis), difficulty breathing, or inability to stand.
• Recent Behavior: Note any unusual lethargy, coughing, or changes in appetite that might have preceded the collapse.

3. Key Contact Information:

• Have the numbers for your regular veterinarian, a 24/7 emergency clinic, and an online telehealth platform (e.g., Vetster, TeleVet) easily accessible.

---

Interactive Tools for Owners

Adding a symptom tracker app or printable checklist can empower owners to monitor their dog’s health more effectively. These tools should include:

• Daily logs for heart and respiratory rates.
• A checklist of symptoms (e.g., coughing, lethargy).
• Space to note new behaviors or concerns to share during vet consultations.

By being prepared with the right information and tools, owners can act quickly and provide veterinarians with critical details to improve their dog’s outcome during emergencies.