Heart Health and Your Pomeranian

Quick answer

Pomeranians are a small breed that can be prone to specific heart conditions, including valve issues and structural abnormalities present from birth. While these conditions vary in severity, early detection through regular veterinary checkups and diligent home monitoring is the best way to manage your dog's health. By tracking your pet's breathing, energy levels, and gum color, you can identify changes early and seek professional guidance before a situation becomes critical.

Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease

This condition involves the heart valve between the left atrium and left ventricle. Over time, the valve may thicken or change shape, which prevents it from closing tightly. This is a well recognised tendency in the breed. When the valve fails to seal properly, blood can leak backward into the atrium, forcing the heart to work harder to pump blood effectively.

At home, you might notice your dog tiring more easily during walks or showing less interest in play. A persistent, soft cough, especially at night or when resting, is a common sign that the heart is struggling. Your veterinarian will use a stethoscope to listen for a heart murmur, which is often the first indicator of this valve issue. An echocardiogram, or heart ultrasound, is the definitive test used to visualize the valve and determine how much blood is leaking.

Patent Ductus Arteriosus

This is a structural condition present from birth where a small vessel that should close shortly after a puppy is born remains open. This is a recognised tendency in the breed, and it is observed more frequently in females. Because this vessel stays open, blood is diverted away from the lungs and back into the heart, which places significant strain on the heart muscle.

Owners often do not see symptoms in very young puppies, but as the heart works harder, you may notice your dog becoming lethargic or struggling to keep up with other dogs. In some cases, the dog may have a stunted growth rate or a weak pulse. A veterinarian will typically detect a continuous, machine-like murmur during a routine physical exam. An ultrasound of the heart is required to confirm the presence of the open vessel and to assess the impact on the heart's size and function.

Pulmonic Stenosis

Pulmonic stenosis is a condition where the valve that controls blood flow from the heart to the lungs is narrowed or malformed. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. Because the opening is restricted, the heart must generate much higher pressure to push blood through to the lungs, which can lead to thickening of the heart muscle over time.

Early signs can be subtle, but you might notice your dog panting excessively or appearing to have difficulty catching their breath after minimal exertion. In more advanced cases, you may see fainting spells or a general lack of stamina. Your veterinarian will listen for a harsh murmur during a checkup. If this is suspected, an echocardiogram is the standard test to measure the severity of the narrowing and to see how the heart is compensating for the increased workload.

Monitoring Your Dog at Home

When to Seek Urgent Care

Frequently Asked Questions