Don’t forget about Fido’s heart health, too!
When aiming to keep our canines as healthy and happy as can be, considering your dog’s heart health is extremely important—up to 75% of senior dogs will eventually develop some form of canine heart disease.
Signs of Canine Heart Disease (if you notice any of these, take your dog to your vet)
- 3 or more days of coughing, especially in the morning
- Difficulty breathing: excessive panting, noisy breathing, increased respiratory rate (40-60 breaths per minute)
- Changes in behavior: withdrawn, tired, depressed
- Poor appetite, weight loss
Dog Heart Healthy Vitamin Supplements
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids (found in Fish oil, Flaxseed oil)
- Coenzyme Q10
- Antioxidant Vitamins A, C, E
- B-Vitamin Complex
- Dr. Carol’s Heart Essentials
Canine Diets for Healthy Dog Hearts
- Organic, fresh, vegetable-rich food
- Low Sodium, Portion controlled Meals
- Water available 24/7 (distilled is the best)
Dog Heart Healthy Exercises
Walk your dog at least 20 minutes, twice a day, 5 days a week
Regular exercise decreases the risk of canine heart disease and prolongs your dog’s healthy years (plus it’s good for you, too!)
Heart-healthy Dog Foods.
Your dog doesn’t eat bacon for breakfast, and he’ll never turn down a game of fetch, so surely, he’s not at risk for heart disease, right? Nearly 8 million dogs in the United States already have heart disease (that’s 10 percent of all pups). Canine heart problems can be congenital, where the defect has been present since birth and exacerbated by age, injury, or diet, or acquired because of diet or disease. As with humans, regular exercise and vet check-ups are essential to staying healthy—and a nutritious diet can be particularly helpful with prevention. Here are some of the heart-healthiest ingredients for pups:
High-Quality Protein
Restricting protein was once advised for dogs facing heart problems, but now we know that it could lead to decreased muscle mass, which can potentially be fatal. Protein is essential for keeping dogs’ hearts healthy because it strengthens the muscle. Their diet should consist of at least 25 to 30 percent high-quality, lean protein such as chicken and salmon, according to Dr. Carol Osborne, DVM, an integrative veterinarian from Chagrin Falls Pet Clinic in Ohio.
Low-Sodium
Just as with humans, excess dietary salt is never a plus, especially if your canine is at risk for cardiac issues. Even if your pup shows no signs, it’s best to keep them on a low-sodium diet with less than 100 mg daily, Dr. Osborne says. Keeping sodium levels consistent helps to avoid spikes which can also affect blood pressure.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
These fish oils are essential for an all-around heart-healthy diet for dogs, Dr. Osborne says. Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and protect against abnormal heart rhythms. In one study of dogs with heart disease, survival rates improved with omega-3 supplements. Natural sources include cod liver oil (which can be found in some fresh, natural food), sardines, and salmon—or you can use supplements.
Taurine
Supplementing your dog’s diet with the amino acid taurine maintains normal cardiac function regardless of whether a heart issue is present, according to Dr. Osborne. Without adequate levels of Taurine, canine heart disease is a risk — and certain breeds such as Portuguese Water Dogs and Golden Retrievers are more prone to a deficiency. Taurine can be naturally found in cooked lamb or raw beef liver, or dogs can take it as a supplement.
Weight Management
Keeping your pup at a healthy weight is important for good health and even more important with heart issues. “Portion control is essential, and that means avoid free feeding,” Dr. Osborne says. Feed your dog 2-3 balanced meals each day made of wholesome, fresh ingredients.
Dr. Carol Osborne is an author and world-renowned integrative veterinarian of twenty-plus years. After graduating from the Ohio State College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Carol completed a prestigious internship at the Columbus Zoo. Shortly afterward, she launched a very successful private practice and became the founder and director of the non-profit organization, the American Pet Institute.
Dr. Carol offers traditional veterinary care for dogs and cats with a softer, natural touch. Her approach highlights the importance of nutrition and utilizing holistic avenues in combination with traditional treatments. Currently, she offers holistic therapies and traditional veterinary medical care for dogs and cats at the Chagrin Falls Pet Clinic in Chagrin Falls, Ohio. Call our Office Today at (855) 372-2765 or complete this Form to Email our Office.
