Heart disease in dogs is almost as common as it is in humans. Canine cardiac disorders are widely studied worldwide, but the information in India is inadequate. Due to the owner's lack of awareness and knowledge and insufficient diagnostic facilities in our country, the diagnosis of canine heart disease has been delayed and overlooked (Devi et al., 2009). Despite cases, many people are unaware that their dog may be at risk for heart disease. A veterinarian should examine every dog considered susceptible to cardiac conditions for cardiac function during the routine examination (Vengsarkar, 1988). A delay in diagnosis and treatment could result in a grave prognosis or life-threatening situations (Martin et al., 2009).

Etiology

Obesity and heart disease in dogs are common in clinical practice in India. Improper feeding, inadequate exercise, and management negligence favor obesity, possibly leading to heart disease. Various nutritional deficiencies- dietary protein, fat, vitamins, minerals, and trace elements are known to cause cardiac disease in multiple species (Devi et al., 2009). A high-fat diet induces abdominal obesity in dogs, resulting in significantly high blood pressure and heart rates, thus leading to heart disease due to atrial hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy. Congestive heart failure (CHF) occurs most often secondary to degenerative mitral valve disease (MVD) and Dilated Cardiomyopathy