Drug | Purpose | Notes |
Furosemide (or Torsemide) | Diuretic – reduces fluid accumulation (lungs, abdomen) | Monitor kidney function and electrolytes |
Pimobendan | Positive inotrope and vasodilator – improves contractility and reduces workload | Strong evidence for MMVD and DCM |
ACE Inhibitors (Enalapril, Benazepril) | Reduce afterload and RAAS activation | Monitor kidney values and BP |
Spironolactone | Aldosterone antagonist – supports diuretic therapy | May slow disease progression |
Antiarrhythmics (Sotalol, Mexiletine) | Control ventricular arrhythmias | Commonly needed in DCM |
🔶 Note: Pimobendan is a cornerstone therapy for both MMVD and DCM. It significantly improves quality of life and survival time in dogs with heart failure. Its dual action—supporting heart muscle contraction and dilating blood vessels—makes it a must-have in canine CHF treatment plans.
- Low sodium diet to reduce fluid retention (use therapeutic cardiac diets).
- Ensure adequate calorie intake to prevent muscle wasting (cachexia).
- Supplement with omega-3 fatty acids for inflammation and appetite support.
- Avoid overexertion. Allow only controlled, light activity.
- Maintain hydration but follow veterinary advice on fluid restriction.
Parameter | Frequency | Notes |
Thoracic radiographs | Every 3–6 months or with clinical signs | Assess pulmonary edema and heart size |
Echocardiography | Every 6–12 months | Evaluate heart function and disease progression |
Blood tests | Every 1–3 months | Monitor renal values, electrolytes (especially with furosemide, ACEi) |
Respiratory rate at rest | Daily at home | >30 bpm at rest may indicate fluid buildup |
Blood pressure | Regularly | Especially if on ACE inhibitors or with arrhythmias |
Seek veterinary help if you notice:
- Increased respiratory rate or effort
- Coughing or wheezing
- Lethargy, weakness, collapse
- Loss of appetite or weight
- Abdominal distension (ascites)
- MMVD: With proper treatment, dogs can live for months to years after CHF onset.
- DCM: Prognosis is typically poorer, especially with advanced systolic dysfunction or arrhythmias.
Optional tests:
- NT-proBNP or Cardiac Troponin I for cardiac stress or damage
- 24-hour Holter monitoring for arrhythmia detection in DCM breeds
