Which Foods Are Best for Dogs with Heart Disease?

If your dog has been diagnosed with heart disease, you may be wondering how best to support their health, starting with diet. Nutrition plays a crucial role in managing heart disease by reducing strain on the heart, supporting muscle function and maintaining a healthy weight. This guide provides an overview of key nutrients and dietary considerations that may benefit your dog’s heart health. 

Dietary management is essential at all stages of heart disease. By adopting a targeted nutritional approach, you can help slow disease progression, manage symptoms, and improve your dog’s quality of life.

Key Nutritional Factors for Dogs with Heart Disease

Low Sodium Levels

Excess sodium can lead to fluid retention, adding strain to the heart, especially for dogs with chronic heart failure. Many commercial dog foods contain high sodium levels that are unsuitable for dogs with heart issues. Choosing low-sodium dog foods can help reduce symptoms like bloating and fluid buildup.

Consult your vet for advice on brands with reduced salt content that are most suitable for your dog.

High-Quality Protein

Protein is vital for muscle health, including the heart. Dogs with heart disease benefit from high-quality, lean protein sources that provide essential amino acids without excessive fat. Opt for proteins that are easy to digest, such as chicken and fish.

Avoid protein sources from animal by-products, focusing instead on premium proteins to support muscle maintenance.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory effects that may benefit dogs with heart disease by reducing inflammation and supporting blood pressure regulation. Omega-3s can also help promote a regular heartbeat and protect heart cells from damage. Fish oil and flaxseed oil are common and readily available options.

Some dog foods include omega-3s, but you may also discuss fish oil supplementation with your vet.

Taurine and L-Carnitine

Taurine and L-carnitine are essential amino acids for heart health. Taurine supports heart muscle function and can be especially important for preventing or managing Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM). L-carnitine helps with energy production in heart muscle cells, improving heart efficiency.

High-quality dog foods often include these amino acids, however consult your veterinarian regarding supplementation, particularly if your dog is on a grain-free diet, as some may be lower in taurine.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants such as vitamins E and C can help protect the heart from oxidative stress. Dogs with heart disease often experience increased oxidative damage, and antioxidants help to neutralise harmful free radicals. Blueberries, spinach, and carrots are natural sources of antioxidants that you can add safely to your dog’s diet in moderation.

In addition, speciality dog foods formulated with antioxidants are another option to consider; however, it’s important to consult your vet to determine if this is suitable for your dog. 

Moderate Caloric Intake

Maintaining a healthy weight is critical for heart health, as obesity exacerbates heart disease symptoms by putting extra strain on the heart. Avoid high-calorie treats or feeding table scraps, which can lead to unnecessary weight gain.

Choose a calorie-conscious diet with moderate fat content, keeping treats to a minimum to help maintain your dog’s ideal weight.

Best Foods for Dogs with Heart Disease

With an understanding of key nutrients, let’s look at some ideal foods for dogs with heart disease. Always consult with your veterinarian before making dietary changes, as they can recommend the best options tailored to your dog’s needs.

Veterinary Prescription Diets

There are a range of specially formulated veterinary prescription diets available for dogs with heart disease. Discuss these with your vet to see if they are suitable for your dog. 

Homemade Diets

For pet owners who prefer homemade diets, consulting a veterinary nutritionist is crucial to ensure all of your dog’s nutritional needs are properly met. Homemade diets offer the advantage of customising elements like sodium levels, protein sources, and supplements, but they also carry the risk of nutrient imbalances if not carefully formulated. Ingredients such as lean proteins, cooked vegetables, and complex carbohydrates can be included in consultation with a veterinary professional. Always work closely with your vet or a qualified nutritionist to create a balanced and safe diet tailored to your dog’s specific health needs.

Foods to Avoid for Dogs with Heart Disease

Certain foods should be avoided if your dog has heart disease:

• High-Sodium Treats: Avoid treats with high salt levels, such as processed meats (sausages, bacon), jerky, and many commercially produced dog treats.
• High-Fat Foods: Fatty foods can lead to weight gain, which is detrimental for dogs with heart disease. Avoid feeding table scraps, fatty cuts of meat, or foods high in unhealthy fats.
• Grain-Free Diets (for Certain Breeds): Some grain-free diets have been linked to taurine deficiency, especially in breeds prone to DCM. If your dog requires a grain-free diet, it is important to discus taurine supplementation with your vet. 

Supplements for Dogs with Heart Disease

Supplements can provide additional support for dogs with heart disease but should only be added under veterinary guidance.

• Fish Oil (Omega-3s): Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation and improve heart health. Fish oil supplements are an easy way to increase omega-3 intake.
• Taurine and L-Carnitine: Some dogs may benefit from additional taurine and L-carnitine. Your veterinarian can recommend the proper dosages based on your dog’s breed and heart condition.
• Coenzyme Q10: This antioxidant supports cellular energy production and may be beneficial for some dogs with heart conditions. Consult your vet to determine if CoQ10 is suitable for your dog.

Final Thoughts

Managing heart disease in dogs is challenging, but with the right diet, you can support your pet’s heart health and quality of life. Focus on low-sodium, high-quality foods enriched with essential amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. It is typically advised to avoid high-sodium and high-fat foods. Always consult your veterinarian for personalised advice, as each dog’s needs are unique. These guidelines can help support your dog's health and quality of life, but be sure to consult your vet if you have any questions or concerns.