Dog Recipe Heartsavers

A dog's heart can be affected by an amount of disorders, including murmurs, congenital defects, and heartworm infestation. Some breeds are more prone to heart disease than others. Short-nosed breeds, such as the boxer, English bulldog, and Pekingese, often develop enlarged hearts due to the strain on their respiratory systems. The Chihuahua and the Great Dane both experience heart valve problems. Other breeds with their share of cardiac illness include the beagle, poodle, fox terrier, Irish setter, German shepherd, German short-haired pointer, King Charles spaniel, and the Shetland sheepdog.

Five Ways to Keep Your Pet’s Heart Healthy

• Good nutrition
• Prevention of overweight
• Moderate, regular exercise
• Prevention of heartworm and regular testing for it
• Proper administration of medicine when prescribed

Nutrition for Heart-Sick Dogs

• No salt
• No preservatives
• No bacon or highly salted, processed meats
• High-quality protein
• Heart-Saving Protein
• Poultry: chicken, chicken gizzards, heart, and liver, turkey breast
• Meat: beef heart, liver
• Fish: water-packed tuna, carp, red snapper, halibut