![]() ![]() A cardiologist from North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine noted DCM in a household with two unrelated Miniature Schnauzers and they were both eating the same boutique, exotic protein grain free diet. ![]() There is suspicion that the disease is associated with eating boutique or grain-free diets with some of the dogs improving when their diets are changed. Recently, veterinary cardiologists have been reporting increased rates of DCM in breeds not usually associated with DCM such as Miniature Schnauzers, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Doodle mixes, Shih Tzus and French Bulldogs. The ability of the heart to serve as a pump is diminished and clinical signs such as lethargy, weakness, collapse, coughing, increased respiratory rate and/or effort, abdominal distention and sudden death can occur. The fact that canine DCM occurs at a higher incidence in specific breeds suggests a heritable genetic component to this disease in Doberman Pinschers, Boxers, Irish Wolfhounds, and Great Danes. The definitive cause of canine DCM is the subject of debate, although several factors including nutritional, infectious, and genetic predisposition have been implicated. The FDA stated in its report in July that the Center for Veterinary Medicine is looking into the links between grain-free dog foods and DCM along with the Veterinary Laboratory Investigation and Response Network.Ĭanine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a heart muscle disorder that results in a decreased ability of the heart to pump blood through the body. Food and Drug Administration has alerted pet owners and veterinary professionals about reports of canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs that are eating certain grain free foods. Barbara LewisHave you read about the recent controversy suggesting a possible link between specific pet diets and canine heart disease? We have many pet owners inquire about which pet foods can cause harm including “grain-free” diets. ![]()
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