Dilated Cardiomyopathy in Dogs

Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a disease of predominantly large and giant breed dogs that results in progressive heart muscle dysfunction, chamber dilatation, and eventual congestive heart failure or death of affected patients. The exact cause of the condition is unknown but genetic factors are presumed to play a role. There is no known effective preventative strategy for the condition. Treatment of affected individuals may improve their quality of life, delay the onset of heart failure symptoms and potentially improve life expectancy. Treatment is not curative; however, most affected individuals eventually die from the disease.