Heart murmur in dogs is extra vibration or sound in the heart caused by abnormal blood flow. These murmurs are not a condition by themselves but indicate underlying issues. When listening to a dog’s heart with a stethoscope, veterinarians focus on rhythm and sound. Normally, a healthy heart produces steady “lub-dub” beats, but a heart murmur adds an extra sound ranging from a faint whisper to a pronounced whooshing, swishing, or humming noise between regular heartbeats.
Veterinarians grade heart murmurs in dogs from I to VI. Grade I murmur is barely audible, while Grade VI murmurs can often be heard without a stethoscope. It’s important to note that the murmur grade, while significant, doesn’t always directly correlate with the severity of the underlying heart condition.
In addition to grading, vets classify murmurs based on the location of their strongest intensity and the pattern of the vibrations. These classifications, along with any other symptoms your dog may exhibit, help to narrow down the cause of the murmur. This detailed approach allows the vet to make an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Symptoms of Heart Murmur in Dogs
Not all heart murmurs in dogs result in noticeable symptoms. Some are benign and may disappear over time. However, many murmurs are linked to heart disease. If you notice signs of heart disease alongside a heart murmur, consult your vet immediately.
Signs of Heart Disease with a Heart Murmur:
- Exercise intolerance
- Lethargy or weakness
- Panting, coughing, or difficulty breathing
- Pale gums or mucus membranes
- Distended abdomen or bloated appearance
- Fainting or collapse
Upon diagnosing a heart murmur, your vet may recommend further diagnostics to determine the cause, such as X-rays, an echocardiogram, or blood tests. Monitoring your dog’s BNP (B-type natriuretic peptide) levels can also provide valuable insights into their heart health and function.
BNP Levels in Dogs
