Early-onset dilated cardiomyopathy in a Caucasian Shepherd dog

Abstract

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is one of the main myocardial diseases responsible for morbidity and mortality in dogs, particularly in large and giant breeds. It has a genetic association and is characterized by dilation and impaired contraction of the left ventricle or both ventricles. This study aimed to report the case of a three-year-old female Caucasian Shepherd Dog, a giant breed, recently diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy, which also progressed to atrial fibrillation. The dog initially presented with nonspecific clinical signs such as selective appetite and diarrhea and received symptomatic treatment. A few days later, signs of cardiac disease such as increased fatigue emerged, prompting cardiological evaluation. Echocardiographic examination revealed findings consistent with dilated cardiomyopathy, along with a small amount of free abdominal fluid, while the electrocardiogram showed sustained atrial fibrillation. Initial treatment included furosemide and enalapril for the cardiomyopathy, and digoxin as an antiarrhythmic for atrial fibrillation. After two weeks of treatment, signs of fatigue and apathy had improved. Further examinations are necessary to confirm the resolution of the arrhythmia and control of the cardiomyopathy. It is concluded that cardiological monitoring from the age of two is important in large and giant dog breeds to enable earlier diagnosis and better prognosis for dilated cardiomyopathy and atrial fibrillation in these breeds.