What is canine congestive heart failure?
Canine congestive heart failure is the name for any disease that makes the heart of the dog unable to put out sufficient amounts of blood. Congestive heat failure can be caused by several different diseases (including bacterial infections and heartworm), sudden injury, heat stroke, electric shock, high blood pressure, or developmental heart abnormalities. Congestive heart failure is called congestive since the malfunctioning of the heart causes fluid retention in the lungs and other parts of the body. All dogs regardless of breed can suffer from congestive heart failure. Giant dog breeds are however more prone to heart failure caused by cardiomyopathy. In really small dog breeds, such as Papillons and the Cavalier King Charles spaniel, congestive heart failure is instead often the result of degenerated valve tissue. If you keep a breed that is extra susceptible to heart problems, ask your veterinarian or a reputable breeder for more advice about how your can reduce the risk of heart di
