Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a heart disease that affects a large proportion of Doberman pinschers. Disease results from an enlarged and weakened heart muscle, particularly affecting the left ventricle and atrium. DCM results in electrical abnormalities of the heart, causing irregular or abnormal or premature beats. The abnormal heart rhythm often is the first sign of DCM and it can result in sudden unexpected death. Other symptoms include respiratory distress, such as coughing, wheezing or labored breathing. Research at Guelph University has shown that about 50% of symptom free dogs will develop/acquire DCM. The cause of DCM is unknown at this time, but it is suspected that genetics plays a role in the Doberman pinscher. DCM may be treated or managed in its early stages to perhaps provide a better quality of life for your Doberman. Your veterinarian or veterinary cardiologist will perform an echocardiogram and Holter moniter to determine the extent of the heart disease and design a treatment plan for your Doberman. New drugs, such as pimobendan, for the treatment of DCM have become available in the United States and show remarkable promise for the treatment of this disease. It is recommended that a Doberman have a baseline echocardiogram between 2 and 4 years of age for future comparison if needed. DCM is ultimately a progressive and fatal disease. All Doberman heart disease is not DCM and owners should always consult a licensed veterinary professional for diagnosis and treatment if your dog exhibits fainting or coughing episodes, has labored breathing or is exercise intolerant.
Web links are provided for additional information regarding DCM.
http://www.ovc.uoguelph.ca/ClinStudies/ogrady/holter/holterfaqs.htm
http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Plains/7109/Cardionew.html
http://www.vin.com/proceedings/Proceedings.plx?CID=WSAVA2006&PID=15745&O=Generic