When we think of our dogs, high blood pressure isn't usually our first concern. However, it can be a serious issue. In this article, our Sango Veterinary Hospital veterinarians will explain the signs and symptoms of high blood pressure in dogs.
High Blood Pressure In Dogs:
High blood pressure is not a common issue in dogs and only occurs in a small percentage of them. For a dog's blood pressure to be considered high, it must be consistently above 150mmHg, which is higher than their normal blood pressure range.
A dog's normal blood pressure range is quite wide and can be higher than the normal healthy range for humans. Typically, a normal dog's blood pressure can range anywhere from 110/60 to 160/90.
There are two different types of high blood pressure in dogs:
There are two types of high blood pressure in dogs. The first type is caused by hereditary factors and accounts for only 20% of high blood pressure cases in dogs.
The second type is called secondary hypertension, which is high blood pressure caused by an underlying disease. Most cases of high blood pressure in dogs are of this type.
Symptoms Of High Blood Pressure In Dogs
Hypertension in dogs often goes unnoticed as it shows no visible symptoms. Furthermore, dogs cannot communicate their discomfort to us, making identifying and treating high blood pressure challenging. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the signs of hypertension and work with a veterinarian to manage it.
Some of the symptoms to watch out for include:
- Weakness
- Loss of sight
- Disorientation
- Nosebleeds
- Seizures
- Heart murmurs
- Enlarged kidneys
- Rapid breathing
Any combination of these symptoms doesn't necessarily mean that your dog has high blood pressure, but it does mean that you should see your vet right away. Early detection could help diagnose other problems or diseases if it is secondary hypertension.
How to Take a Dog's Blood Pressure
It may seem easy to measure your dog's blood pressure using a human blood pressure cuff. However, this approach is not recommended as it is unlikely to provide accurate results.
Veterinarians use an inflatable cuff placed around the dog's leg or tail to take a reading. If your veterinarian suspects that your dog's blood pressure is a concern, they may recommend additional testing.
Treatment For High Blood Pressure
The treatment for your dog's high blood pressure will depend on the type of high blood pressure your dog is suffering from. If your dog has hereditary high blood pressure, which is rarer, it can be treated with a change in diet and more exercise throughout the day.
Your vet may prescribe medication if this does not lower your dog's blood pressure. However, if your dog has secondary hypertension, it will likely receive treatment for the cause of hypertension rather than only treating hypertension itself.
Your vet may prescribe medication for hypertension in combination with other treatments. It is important to note that often, the first signs of hypertension can be asymptomatic.
It is crucial to schedule regular vet visits if you notice any signs of high blood pressure in your dog.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet to accurately diagnose your pet's condition.