What is dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)?
a disease of the heart muscle that can lead to congestive heart failure
What does dilated cardiomyopathy do?
occurs when the heart muscles become weak (1)
this leads to a loss of the ability to contract normally and pump blood throughout the body. (1)
What causes dilated cardiomyopathy?
deficiencies in some amino acids (such as taurine and carnitine) are believed to influence the disease in some breeds such as Boxers and Cocker Spaneils. (1)
A common thread among affected dogs was the consumption of foods containing peas, lentils, other legume seeds, or potatoes as main ingredients. (1)
DCM and DOGS
A genetic predisposition for DCM is suspected since some breeds, such as Doberman Pinschers, Great Danes, and Boxers, are more commonly affected. (1)
Resources
1. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/diet-related-dilated-cardiomyopathy-in-dogs/
