12/17/2025
I think its time for another post about DCM.
Did you guys know that DCM (Dialated Cardiomyopathy) is a very common heart disease in Dobermans?
What does a heart with DCM look like?
A dog with DCM may show little to no symptoms, but can be in what's called an occult or "hidden" phase of DCM for TWO YEARS before symptoms become visible. Sometimes in the "hidden" phase, your dog may exhibit symptoms such as exercise intolerance, labored breathing, etc.
Starting at the age of 2-3yrs they say to start annual holters and echocardiograms. These two tests are VITAL in catching this disease in its occult (hidden) phase. BOTH tests need to be done, as they both show completely different things. A holter monitors the dogs heart for a course of 24hrs, and will show any irregular heartbeats or arrhythmias. The echo is an ultrasound of the heart, and the doctor can visually see the heart, how it's pumping, etc. A dog with a perfect holter, may have an echo that shows something completely different, hence why both are SO important!
Annual holters and echocardiograms help us find those dogs in the occult phase before it's too late. There is no cure for DCM yet, but there is a lot that can be done to prolong the life of a dog diagnosed with DCM in its early stages. Once a dog starts showing symptoms, ie coughing, etc it is often times too late. 😔
My goal is to help spread awareness of this disease, as so many out there have never even heard of it before. Just know I'm not trying to pressure anyone, but would hate for anyone to be blindsided, as this disease often times gives little to no warning before taking our precious dogs away from us.
I organize a few heart clinics in Oregon & Washington where echocardiograms and holter interpretations are performed by a cardiologist.
**Please PM me if you are interested in renting and/or participating in either of the heart clinics!**
