Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs
CHF in dogs is usually secondary to myxomatous mitral valve disease (small breeds) or DCM (large breeds). ACVIM stages A-D guide treatment. Stage B2 (asymptomatic with cardiac enlargement) onwards requires pimobendan per EPIC trial.
Acute pulmonary edema (resting RR >40, cyanosis) is an emergency. Don't delay for diagnostics — IV furosemide + oxygen immediately.
Symptoms to watch for
- •Cough (especially nocturnal)
- •Exercise intolerance
- •Tachypnea at rest (>30 bpm = early warning)
- •Syncope
- •Abdominal distension (right-sided failure)
- •Cyanosis in acute decompensation
Treatment options
Vetmedin — inodilator. Foundation therapy from ACVIM Stage B2.
Loop diuretic for symptomatic CHF. Compounded liquid for small breeds.
ACE inhibitor. Compounded chew or liquid.
Aldosterone antagonist; added with diuretic resistance.
For pulmonary hypertension complicating CHF.
Valid vet prescription required · HIPAA-compliant · Free to pet owners
FAQs — Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs
Sources & review
Reviewed by: ScriptUnlock Pharmacy Verification Team
Last reviewed: June 2026
Sources cited:
- • ACVIM Consensus on MMVD
- • EPIC Trial NEJM 2016
- • Plumb's 10th ed.
This information is educational and does not substitute for veterinary advice. Always confirm diagnosis, dosing, and treatment plan with your veterinarian. ScriptUnlock connects pet owners to verified pharmacies; we do not provide veterinary advice.