Early Diagnosis: A critical step in managing the increasing trend of cardiac diseases in dogs

Cardiac disease is one of the most important diseases of dogs. Its prevalence is increasing day by day and mostly remain undiagnosed. There is sharp rise in canine population in post COVID era and more canine diseases are being reported to veterinarians. Canine cardiac diseases are common, complex but remain unnoticed by the pet parents due lack of awareness and failure to appreciate common signs. It is considered as a silent killer disease and is the second most important cause of death in dogs. With the change in lifestyle of both human and their dogs where there is less physical activity, no exercise, more consumption of fat and high energy diet, obesity is encountered commonly in them. Dogs are kept as companions to relive the stress and induce physical activity, but the change in nature of job of their owners they mostly remain confined to bedrooms. Canine heart diseases could be reported at any age; however, age is the greatest risk factor for cardiac disease in dogs similar to humans. In small breeds 9 to 13 years, in medium breeds 9 to 11 years, in large breeds 7 to 10 years and in case of giant breeds 6 to 9 years of age is considered geriatric. It is estimated that 10-15% of all dogs are affected by heart disease. The awareness among pet parents about the cardinal signs of cardiac disease is crucial for its timely diagnosis and treatment. Modern diagnostic tools like electrocardiography, radiography and echocardiography are available in veterinary practice to aid in accurate diagnosis of cardiac diseases in canines.