Guides
Everything you need to know about caring for a dog with heart disease — DCM, MMVD, and more.
MMVD
Heart Disease in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels: An Owner's Guide
Why Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are uniquely predisposed to MMVD, what to expect, screening recommendations, the MVD breeding protocol, and how to give your Cavalier the best possible outcome.
15 min read
The Complete Guide to MMVD (Mitral Valve Disease) in Dogs
Everything you need to know about Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease in dogs — the most common acquired heart disease in canines. Staging, treatment, the EPIC study, prognosis, and what to expect.
19 min read
Your Dog Has a Heart Murmur: What You Need to Know
Your vet heard a heart murmur — now what? Learn what heart murmurs mean in dogs, the grading system, when to worry, and why the most common cause in small breeds is highly treatable.
16 min read
MMVD Stages Explained: What B1 and B2 Mean for Your Dog
A detailed breakdown of the ACVIM staging system for Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease — from Stage A through Stage D — with a deep dive on the critical B1 vs B2 distinction that determines when treatment begins.
14 min read
Diagnosis
The Complete Guide to Doberman DCM
Everything you need to know about Dilated Cardiomyopathy in Doberman Pinschers — genetics, screening, diagnosis, treatment, diet, supplements, and living with a heart dog.
18 min read
DCM Prognosis in Dogs: What to Realistically Expect
An honest, research-based look at DCM prognosis and life expectancy in dogs — what factors affect survival, what the studies show, and what you can do to give your dog the best outcome.
12 min read
DCM Stages Explained: Occult, Overt, and What They Mean for Your Dog
A clear breakdown of the ACVIM stages of canine dilated cardiomyopathy — from Stage A through Stage D — and what each means for your dog's treatment and prognosis.
15 min read
DCM Symptoms in Dogs: What to Watch For
A practical guide to recognizing the early, subtle, and emergency signs of dilated cardiomyopathy in dogs — plus how to monitor your dog's resting respiratory rate at home.
14 min read
What is DCM in Dobermans?
A comprehensive overview of Dilated Cardiomyopathy in Dobermans — what it is, why the breed is so affected, and what you can do about it.
3 min read
Costs & Insurance
How Much Does DCM Treatment Cost? A Realistic Breakdown
A transparent breakdown of DCM treatment costs for dogs — from diagnostics and medications to emergencies — plus financial assistance options to help manage the expense.
10 min read
Pet Insurance and Heart Disease in Dogs: What You Need to Know
A practical guide to pet insurance for dogs at risk of heart disease — what is covered, what is not, pre-existing condition rules, and how to evaluate policies before your dog needs cardiac care.
15 min read
Screening
Echocardiogram for Dogs: What to Expect
A complete guide to canine echocardiograms — how the test works, what measurements matter, what results mean, and how to prepare your dog for the appointment.
9 min read
Your First Holter Monitor: What to Expect
A practical, step-by-step guide to your dog's first Holter monitor test — what it is, how it works, what the 24 hours are like, and how to read the results.
12 min read
Living with DCM
Diet & Supplements
Grain-Free Dog Food and DCM: What the Research Actually Says
A balanced, evidence-based look at the FDA investigation into grain-free dog food and dilated cardiomyopathy — what we know, what we do not, and what to feed your dog.
11 min read
Natural Diuretics and Remedies for Dogs with Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)
An evidence-based look at natural diuretics and complementary remedies for dogs with congestive heart failure, including dandelion root, hawthorn berry, and dietary changes.
11 min read