Heart

Question
Is it normal for a 9 month old puppy to have an irregular heart beat.  Her heart beat seems to skip a beat every so often.  she is very active and loves to run.  She does not seem to get tired or have to rest after exercising.  Thanks

Answer
Hi Chris!

You didn't say if you have your puppy evaluated by your veterinarian for this condition. If you haven't yet done so, you should get it checked out by your regular vet.

While it's not "normal" for a dog or puppy to have an irregular heart beat, irregular heart beats are common and usually not a problem unless associated with other cardiac related clinical signs. When a dog is having more than 20 irregular beats per minute, or the dog is showing symptoms, then medication can be started to try and prevent the irregular beats.

The most common origin is sinus arrhythmia, an irregularity in the heart's natural built in pacemaker. Pets with this condition are basically healthy since the heart manages to keep blood flowing even when the beat is uneven.

If your dog is otherwise fine, you do not need to worry about the irregular heart beat.

A dog's heart is bigger in proportion to their bodies compared ours, so some irregularity is normal and not dangerous as it would be for us. However, the heartbeat can be (or become) severely irregular which can be problematic. Should your puppy's condition change, you might see symptoms such as weakness, fainting episodes, heartbeat seems more irregular than usual, acting confused and disoriented, joints are swollen or tender, your dog has gotten wobbly or clumsy, which would signal the immediate need for a veterinarian.

As your puppy matures, try to keep her slim and in shape. Being over weight isn't good for a dog's heart.


I hope this is helpful and I wish you the best of luck!Please keep me posted and give that puppy lots of kisses for me!
Nicole.D.