DCM in Dogs

What is DCM in dogs?

DCM stands for dilated cardiomyopathy. This is a heart disease that causes the chambers of the heart to enlarge and weaken. This affects the heart's ability to pump blood throughout the body effectively. Some symptoms you can see if your dog has this disease are fatigue, exercise intolerance, coughing, difficulty breathing, collapse or fainting, or loss of appetite.

This disease has a breed disposition of Dobermans, Irish Wolfhounds, and Great Danes. In some cases, the disease can be caused by a nutritional deficiency of an essential amino acid called L-carnitine. L-carnitine is an amino acid created in the body that transfers fat into energy. It is found in animal-based protein sources.

Dietary Considerations for DCM in Dogs

Sodium is something that all heart patients - human or dog - need to avoid to the best of their ability. As far as other dietary considerations are concerned, for dogs with DCM there should be an abundance of protein and Omega 3’s. Grain-free diets should be avoided due to active studies between the link of grain-free diets and DCM. Something to remember that diets are not one-size fits all situations, and your dog will require a unique approach with the help of a veterinarian to provide them with the best nutrition possible. The protein pucks we would recommend at Mighty Bites due to the low sodium and high protein content for the dogs with DCM would be the Venison, Rabbit, and Kangaroo pucks.