# Dilated Cardiomyopathy DCM in Dogs: Diet-Related Taurine Gaps and Recovery ## Key Takeaways - Diet-associated Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs is strongly linked to diets high in legumes or potatoes, often labeled as grain-free, and can also be associated with hydrolyzed protein diets. - While taurine deficiency is a significant factor, particularly in breeds like Golden Retrievers, the pathogenesis of diet-associated DCM is complex and may involve alterations in gut microbiota, bile acid metabolism, reduced nutrient digestibility, and phospholipidosis. - Diagnosis relies on clinical signs (lethargy, coughing, dyspnea, collapse), a detailed diet history, echocardiography revealing ventricular dilation and reduced systolic function, and potentially blood tests for taurine and cardiac biomarkers like NT-ProBNP. - Unlike genetic DCM, diet-associated DCM can often be reversed or significantly improved with early detection, a prompt switch to a traditional, grain-inclusive diet, and appropriate veterinary medical management for congestive heart failure or arrhythmias. - Breeds such as Golden Retrievers and Pit Bull-type dogs are noted for increased susceptibility to diet-associated DCM, though any breed can be affected, highlighting a potential gene-environment interaction. - Anesthetic management for dogs with DCM requires careful consideration due to potential arrhythmias and reduced cardiovascular stability, often necessitating specific premedication and induction agents. --- **Direct Answer for Pet Owners:** Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a serious heart muscle disease in dogs where the heart chambers enlarge and the walls thin, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood effectively. While some dogs have a genetic predisposition, certain diets, particularly those that are grain-free and high in legumes or potatoes, have been strongly linked to the development of DCM. This diet-associated form is often tied to taurine deficiency, although the exact mechanisms are complex. The good news is that, unlike genetic forms, diet-related DCM can be partially or fully reversed with early detection, a diet change, and appropriate veterinary treatment. **Owner Triage Summary:** If your [dog](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/clinical-methods/dog) is eating a grain-free, legume-rich, or hydrolyzed protein diet and you notice signs like lethargy, weakness, coughing, difficulty breathing, or fainting, contact your veterinarian immediately. Sudden collapse or severe breathing distress is an emergency. Do not stop any current heart medications abruptly, but do discuss the diet with your vet. A simple blood test can measure taurine levels, and an echocardiogram can assess heart function. Early intervention is critical for the best chance of recovery. ### At a Glance: DCM and Diet | Feature | Genetic/Idiopathic DCM | Diet-Associated DCM | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | **Primary Cause** | Inherited genetic mutations (e.g., in Dobermans, Boxers, Irish Wolfhounds) [1][2][3] | Diet, often grain-free with high legume/potato content, or hydrolyzed protein diets [1][4] | | **Taurine Levels** | Often normal, though some breeds (e.g., Golden Retrievers) are susceptible to taurine deficiency [1] | Frequently low, but can be normal; taurine deficiency is a key part of the pathogenesis [1][5] | | **Typical Breeds** | Doberman Pinscher, Boxer, Great Dane, Irish Wolfhound [1][6][7] | Any breed, including those without a known genetic predisposition, such as Golden Retrievers, Pit Bull-type breeds, and mixed breeds [1][8] | | **Response to Diet Change** | Unlikely to resolve with diet change alone; requires lifelong medical management [1] | Often significant clinical and functional improvement, potentially reversing the disease [1][4][8] | | **Key Diagnostic Clues** | Breed, family history, age of onset | Diet history (grain-free, high-pulse, hydrolyzed), low blood/plasma taurine, improvement after diet change | ## Understanding Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) Dilated cardiomyopathy is one of the most common acquired myocardial diseases in dogs and a leading cause of congestive heart failure (CHF) [9][10][11]. The disease is characterized by a decrease in systolic function (the heart's ability to contract) and dilation of one or both ventricles [1][2]. This dilation thins the heart muscle walls, weakening the heart's pumping action. Over time, this can lead to arrhythmias, heart failure, and sudden cardiac death [10][2]. DCM is a significant cause of mortality, particularly in large-breed dogs [11][7]. While the underlying etiology is often not definitively identified, it is broadly categorized into two main forms: genetic/idiopathic and diet-associated [1][10]. ### Anatomy and Physiology of the Failing Heart The heart is a muscular pump with four chambers. The two lower chambers, the left and right ventricles, are responsible for pumping blood to the body and lungs, respectively. In DCM, the ventricular walls become thin and stretched. This dilation impairs the heart's ability to contract forcefully (systolic dysfunction). The heart compensates by activating neurohormonal systems, which can lead to further remodeling, fibrosis (scarring), and worsening of the condition [12][6]. At a cellular level, the heart's contractile machinery, primarily the protein myosin, may not function efficiently. Research in Doberman Pinschers with DCM has found that a higher proportion of myosin molecules are in an "energy-conserving" state, making them less available to generate force for contraction [6]. This is a key molecular mechanism contributing to the reduced contractility seen in DCM. ## The Emerging Role of Diet: The Grain-Free and Legume Connection In 2018, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported a potential link between canine DCM and diets containing a high proportion of legumes or potatoes, many of which were labeled grain-free [1][5]. This finding was significant because it included breeds not typically known to have a genetic predisposition to DCM. Since then, a growing body of peer-reviewed research has supported this association, although the exact mechanisms remain an area of active investigation [1][5]. ### Taurine Deficiency: A Key, But Not the Only, Factor Taurine is a conditionally essential amino acid for dogs. It is critical for normal heart function, including the regulation of calcium, which is essential for muscle contraction. The initial hypothesis was that these diets caused a deficiency in taurine, leading to DCM. While taurine deficiency is a significant factor, particularly in breeds like Golden Retrievers, it is not the whole story [1]. A 2023 study investigated the effects of a 28-day feeding trial of grain-containing versus pulse-based (legume) diets. The researchers hypothesized that the pulse-based diets would reduce plasma taurine and other sulfur-containing amino acids. While they found that plasma methionine (a precursor to taurine) was significantly lower after feeding the test diets, plasma taurine levels themselves were unchanged [5]. This suggests that other mechanisms, beyond simple taurine deficiency, are at play. ### Beyond Taurine: Metabolic and Microbiome Hypotheses Research is now exploring more complex hypotheses to explain how diet triggers DCM. These include: 1. **Gut Microbiota and Bile Acid Metabolism:** The high fiber content of legumes, particularly peas, can significantly alter the gut microbiome. This alteration can affect the metabolism of bile acids, which are essential for fat digestion. Changes in bile acid profiles could potentially have downstream effects on cardiac health [1]. 2. **Reduced Digestibility and Nutrient Absorption:** Pulse-based diets have been shown to have lower digestibility for some macronutrients and sulfur-containing amino acids, likely due to their higher fiber content [5]. This could lead to sub-clinical deficiencies in other nutrients essential for heart health. 3. **Phospholipidosis:** A 2025 study found that dogs with diet-associated DCM eating high-pulse (HP) diets had significantly higher urine concentrations of di-docosahexaenoyl (22:6)-bis(monoacylglycerol)phosphate (BMP), a biomarker of drug-induced phospholipidosis [13]. Phospholipidosis is a condition where phospholipids accumulate abnormally in cells, suggesting that these diets may cause a toxic or metabolic derangement at the cellular level [13]. 4. **Hydrolyzed Protein Diets:** A 2026 study identified a small but notable population of dogs with DCM that were eating hydrolyzed protein diets [4]. These diets are often used for dogs with food allergies. The study found that 1.3% of dogs diagnosed with DCM were on these diets, and a significant portion of them showed improvement in cardiac size after a diet change [4]. This suggests that the processing of proteins or other ingredients in these diets may also play a role. ### The 2018 FDA Report and Its Aftermath The FDA's initial report was a crucial turning point. It brought the issue of diet-associated DCM to the forefront of veterinary medicine and public awareness. The report highlighted that many affected dogs were eating "boutique" or grain-free diets. Subsequent studies have confirmed that dogs fed non-traditional, grain-free, legume-rich diets show larger left ventricular diameters, reduced systolic function, and an increased number of premature ventricular complexes compared to those on traditional diets [1]. This evidence strongly suggests a link between diet and DCM, particularly regarding legumes [1]. ## Breeds at Risk and Genetic Susceptibility While diet-associated DCM can affect any dog, certain breeds appear to be more susceptible. This suggests a gene-environment interaction, where a dog's genetic makeup influences its susceptibility to dietary triggers. - **Golden Retrievers:** This breed is notably more susceptible to taurine-deficiency-related DCM [1]. - **Pit Bull-type Breeds:** A 2023 study found that 84% of Pit Bull-type dogs diagnosed with DCM were eating nontraditional commercial diets [8]. - **Breeds with Known Genetic Predisposition:** Breeds like Doberman Pinschers, Boxers, and Irish Wolfhounds have a strong genetic component to their DCM [1][6][7]. However, diet can still be a contributing factor in these breeds. For example, a study on dogs eating hydrolyzed protein diets included Doberman Pinschers [4]. ### Genetic Variants and Sudden Cardiac Death The genetic basis of DCM is complex. Research has identified specific gene mutations associated with the disease: - **LMNA Gene:** A frameshift deletion in the LMNA gene was identified as a cause of a dilated and fibrosing cardiomyopathy in Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers [2]. - **ABCC9 Gene:** A missense variant in the ABCC9 gene is associated with sudden cardiac death and DCM in juvenile Manchester Terriers [3]. - **Other Breeds:** Genetic variants are likely responsible for DCM in many other breeds, including Dobermans and Boxers [6]. These genetic findings are crucial for understanding the disease but also highlight that diet-associated DCM is a distinct entity. A dog with a genetic predisposition might be more vulnerable to the effects of a poor diet, or a dog without a known genetic mutation could develop DCM purely from dietary factors. ## Clinical Presentation and Diagnosis The clinical signs of DCM can be subtle initially, often going unnoticed by owners. The disease progresses through stages, from occult (hidden) DCM, where the dog shows no signs but has echocardiographic changes, to overt DCM, where clinical signs of heart failure are present [14][15]. ### Common Clinical Signs - **Lethargy and Weakness:** The dog may tire easily on walks and seem less energetic. - **Coughing:** This is often due to cardiogenic pulmonary oedema (fluid in the lungs) or an enlarged heart pressing on the airways [9][16]. - **Difficulty Breathing (Dyspnea):** This is a sign of congestive heart failure, where fluid accumulates in the lungs [16]. - **Exercise Intolerance:** The dog may be unwilling or unable to exercise as much as it used to. - **Collapse or Fainting (Syncope):** This can be due to arrhythmias or a sudden drop in blood pressure. - **Reduced Appetite and Weight Loss:** These are non-specific signs but can occur in heart failure. - **Abdominal Distension:** This can occur due to fluid accumulation in the abdomen (ascites) from right-sided heart failure. ### The Veterinary Diagnostic Workup If a veterinarian suspects DCM, they will typically perform a series of tests: 1. **Physical Examination:** The vet will listen to the heart for a murmur or arrhythmia and check the pulse quality. They will also assess the lungs for abnormal sounds. 2. **Echocardiography (Ultrasound):** This is the gold standard for diagnosing DCM. It allows the vet to visualize the heart's structure and function, measuring the size of the chambers, the thickness of the walls, and the heart's pumping efficiency (ejection fraction). Key findings include a dilated left ventricle, reduced systolic function, and an enlarged left atrium [1][9][4][15]. 3. **Electrocardiography (ECG):** This test records the heart's electrical activity and is essential for detecting arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation or ventricular premature complexes [15][17][7]. Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia in dogs with DCM, and an increased left atrial diameter is a significant risk factor for its development [15]. 4. **Thoracic Radiography (Chest X-rays):** X-rays are used to evaluate the size and shape of the heart and to check for signs of congestive heart failure, such as pulmonary oedema. The radiographic pattern of pulmonary oedema in DCM often differs from that seen in other heart diseases, frequently appearing as a diffuse, unstructured interstitial pattern [16]. Radiographs are also useful for evaluating the pulmonary vasculature and airways [9]. 5. **Blood and Urine Tests:** - **Taurine Levels:** Blood (plasma or whole blood) taurine levels can be measured to check for deficiency [5][18]. - **Cardiac Biomarkers:** Levels of NT-ProBNP and cardiac troponin-I can be measured. These biomarkers indicate myocardial stress or damage and can be used to support a diagnosis and monitor treatment [5][18]. - **Other Bloodwork:** A complete blood count and biochemistry profile are important to rule out other diseases and assess overall health. - **Urine Biomarkers:** As mentioned, urine di-22:6-BMP is a novel biomarker for phospholipidosis and may be used in the future to help diagnose diet-associated DCM [13]. ### The Importance of a Detailed Diet History A thorough diet history is a critical component of the diagnostic workup. The veterinarian will ask about the specific brand and formula of food, how long the dog has been eating it, and whether any treats or supplements are given. This information is essential for identifying a potential dietary cause and planning a recovery strategy. ## Management and Recovery: The Path to Improvement The management of diet-associated DCM involves a multi-pronged approach. The primary goal is to halt the progression of the disease and, if possible, reverse it. ### 1. Dietary Change: The Cornerstone of Recovery The most critical step in managing diet-associated DCM is to change the dog's diet. The recommendation is to transition to a traditional, grain-inclusive diet that is not high in legumes or potatoes. This change should be made under the guidance of a veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist. - **Choosing a New Diet:** The ideal diet should be well-balanced and complete, with a proven nutritional profile. Diets containing ingredients like rice, corn, or wheat are generally recommended over those with high levels of peas, lentils, or potatoes. - **Response to Diet Change:** Studies have shown that many dogs improve clinically and functionally with dietary changes [1]. A 2023 study on Pit Bull-type breeds found that dogs that changed from a nontraditional diet to a traditional one had a significantly greater decrease in normalized left ventricular diameter and a significant increase in fractional shortening (a measure of heart contractility) compared to dogs that remained on traditional diets [8]. Similarly, a 2026 study on dogs eating hydrolyzed protein diets found that a diet change led to a significant reduction in the left atrial-to-aortic ratio and normalized left ventricular internal dimension at end systole [4]. This demonstrates that diet-associated DCM can be reversible. ### 2. Taurine Supplementation If a dog is found to be taurine-deficient, or if the veterinarian suspects a deficiency, taurine supplementation will be prescribed. The dose and duration of supplementation will be determined by the vet. Even in some cases where taurine levels are normal, supplementation may be recommended, as it is relatively safe and can be beneficial. ### 3. Medical Management of Heart Failure and Arrhythmias For dogs that are already in congestive heart failure or have significant arrhythmias, medical therapy is necessary. This is managed by a veterinarian and may include: - **Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide):** To remove fluid from the lungs and other tissues. - **ACE Inhibitors (e.g., Enalapril, Benazepril):** To dilate blood vessels and reduce the workload on the heart. - **Pimobendan:** A medication that improves the heart's contractility and dilates blood vessels. - **Anti-Arrhythmic Drugs:** To control abnormal heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation [15]. It is crucial to understand that these medications manage the symptoms and slow disease progression, but they do not address the underlying cause. The dietary change is the only intervention that can potentially reverse the disease process itself. ### 4. Monitoring and Follow-Up Dogs with DCM require regular follow-up with a veterinarian, including repeat echocardiograms and ECGs, to monitor their response to treatment and adjust medications as needed. The frequency of these check-ups will depend on the severity of the disease and the dog's response to therapy. ## Anesthesia and Other Considerations in DCM Dogs with DCM require special consideration when undergoing anesthesia for any procedure. A 2024 retrospective study highlighted the anesthetic management of these patients. Key findings include: - Dogs with DCM were less likely to be premedicated with dexmedetomidine or induced with propofol, likely due to the cardiovascular effects of these drugs. - They were more likely to be induced with etomidate or midazolam, which are considered more cardiovascularly stable. - Dogs with DCM had an increased likelihood of experiencing cardiac arrhythmias during anesthesia and were more likely to receive dobutamine, a medication that supports heart function [14]. This research underscores the need for a tailored anesthetic plan for dogs with DCM, managed by a veterinary anesthesiologist or a veterinarian experienced in managing cardiac patients. ## Prevention and Prognosis ### Prevention The best way to prevent diet-associated DCM is to be mindful of the food you feed your dog. While it is not necessary to avoid all grain-free diets, it is important to be aware of the potential risks, especially if your dog is a breed known to be susceptible. - **Consult Your Veterinarian:** Before choosing a diet, especially a grain-free or boutique one, discuss it with your veterinarian. - **Look for Nutritional Adequacy:** Ensure the food meets the nutritional standards set by organizations like the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). - **Consider a Traditional Diet:** For most dogs, a well-balanced, traditional diet with grains is a safe and healthy choice. - **Regular Check-ups:** Routine veterinary check-ups can help detect early signs of heart disease before they become severe. ### Prognosis The prognosis for dogs with diet-associated DCM is generally much better than for those with the genetic form. Many dogs show significant improvement within weeks to months of a dietary change and appropriate medical therapy [1][4][8]. In some cases, heart function can return to normal, and medications can be reduced or even discontinued under veterinary supervision. However, the prognosis depends on the severity of the disease at diagnosis. Dogs that are already in severe congestive heart failure have a more guarded prognosis. The success of recovery also depends on the owner's commitment to the dietary change and ongoing veterinary care. ## Limitations and When to Contact a Veterinarian This article provides a comprehensive overview of diet-associated DCM, but it is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every dog is an individual, and the information presented here cannot predict the specific outcome for your pet. **When to Contact a Veterinarian:** - If your dog is showing any signs of heart disease, such as coughing, difficulty breathing, lethargy, or fainting. - If you are feeding a grain-free or legume-rich diet and have concerns about your dog's heart health. - Before making any changes to your dog's diet, especially if they are on a prescription diet. - If your dog has been diagnosed with DCM and you have questions about the treatment plan or prognosis. **Breed-Level Limitations:** While certain breeds are known to be more susceptible to DCM, this does not mean that a dog of a different breed is immune. Diet-associated DCM can affect any dog, including mixed breeds. This article cannot provide breed-specific risk assessments. Your veterinarian is the best resource for understanding your dog's individual risk based on their breed, genetics, and lifestyle. ## Unsafe Home Remedies and What to Avoid When your dog is diagnosed with DCM, it is natural to want to help. However, it is critical to avoid unproven or potentially harmful home remedies. - **Do Not Give Human Heart Medications:** Medications like ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, or diuretics prescribed for humans are dangerous for dogs. Dosages are different, and some are toxic. - **Do Not Use Over-the-Counter Supplements Without Veterinary Approval:** While taurine is a key supplement, the dose and need for it must be determined by a veterinarian. Other supplements, like Coenzyme Q10 or fish oil, may have benefits, but they can also interact with other medications or be inappropriate for certain conditions. - **Do Not Abruptly Change Medications:** If your dog is on heart medication, never stop or change the dose without explicit instructions from your veterinarian. - **Avoid High-Sodium Diets:** Do not offer table scraps or salty treats, as these can exacerbate fluid retention and heart failure. Always discuss any supplements or dietary additions with your veterinarian before giving them to your dog. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### 1. What is the most common cause of diet-related DCM in dogs? The most common cause is a diet that is grain-free and contains a high proportion of legumes (like peas and lentils) or potatoes. These diets have been strongly linked to the development of DCM, even in breeds without a known genetic predisposition [1][5]. ### 2. Can a dog fully recover from diet-associated DCM? Yes, many dogs can recover significantly. Unlike genetic DCM, diet-associated DCM is often reversible with early detection, a change to a traditional, grain-inclusive diet, and appropriate veterinary treatment. Studies have shown significant improvements in heart size and function after a diet change [1][4][8]. ### 3. How long does it take for a dog's heart to improve after a diet change? Improvement can be seen within weeks, but it often takes several months. In one study, follow-up echocardiograms were performed between 60 and 1,076 days after a diet change, showing significant improvements over time [8]. ### 4. Is taurine deficiency the only reason grain-free diets cause DCM? No. While taurine deficiency is a significant factor, especially in breeds like Golden Retrievers, it is not the only mechanism. Other hypotheses include alterations in the gut microbiome and bile acid metabolism, reduced nutrient digestibility, and a condition called phospholipidosis [1][13][5]. ### 5. My dog is on a grain-free diet but seems healthy. Should I be worried? It is a reason to be proactive, not panicked. You should discuss your dog's diet with your veterinarian. They may recommend a cardiac screening, including an echocardiogram and possibly a taurine level test, especially if your dog is a breed known to be susceptible to DCM. ### 6. What are the first signs of DCM I should look for in my dog? The earliest signs are often subtle and include lethargy, weakness, and exercise intolerance. More obvious signs include a cough, difficulty breathing, a swollen abdomen, and fainting. If you notice any of these, contact your vet immediately [9][16]. ### 7. Are hydrolyzed protein diets also a risk factor for DCM? Yes, a recent study found that a small percentage (1.3%) of dogs diagnosed with DCM were eating hydrolyzed protein diets. These dogs also showed improvement in cardiac size after a diet change, suggesting that these diets can also be a contributing factor [4]. ### 8. What is the treatment for a dog with DCM and congestive heart failure? Treatment for CHF involves medications to manage the symptoms, such as diuretics to remove fluid, ACE inhibitors to dilate blood vessels, and pimobendan to improve heart contractility. Anti-arrhythmic drugs may also be needed [15]. The most important long-term treatment is changing the diet to address the underlying cause. ## Sources [1] [Role of Diet as a Predisposing Factor for Dilated Cardiomyopathy in Dogs: A Narrative Review.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41295744/) [2] [Naturally occurring canine laminopathy leading to a dilated and fibrosing cardiomyopathy in the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37925523/) [3] [An ABCC9 Missense Variant Is Associated with Sudden Cardiac Death and Dilated Cardiomyopathy in Juvenile Dogs.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37239348/) [4] [Prevalence and description of dogs with dilated cardiomyopathy eating hydrolyzed protein diets.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41689959/) [5] [Effects of a 28-day feeding trial of grain-containing versus pulse-based diets on cardiac function, taurine levels and digestibility in domestic dogs.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37228111/) [6] [Predominant myosin superrelaxed state in canine myocardium with naturally occurring dilated cardiomyopathy.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37505469/) [7] [Clinical significance of ventricular ectopy and development of dilated cardiomyopathy in Irish wolfhound dogs.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42114319/) [8] [Pit bull-type breeds with dilated cardiomyopathy eating nontraditional diets improve after diet change (2015-2022).](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37059420/) [9] [Thoracic Radiographic Evaluation of Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy: An Anatomical Perspective.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42136132/) [10] [Intracoronary cytoprotective gene therapy in a dog with dilated cardiomyopathy: long term follow up.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39998693/) [11] [A Pilot Study of the Role of Selected Biomarkers of Kidney Injury in Dogs with Dilated Cardiomyopathy.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38731309/) [12] [Quantitative and qualitative histopathological analysis of myocardial tissue in canine myxomatous mitral valve disease and dilated cardiomyopathy.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42061640/) [13] [Dogs with diet-associated dilated cardiomyopathy have higher urine di-docosahexaenoyl (22:6)-bis(monoacylglycerol)phosphate, a biomarker of phospholipidosis.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39467380/) [14] [Anesthetic management and anesthesia-related complications in dogs with a dilated cardiomyopathy phenotype: a retrospective study of 30 dogs (2010-2024).](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39178896/) [15] [Risk factors for atrial fibrillation in dogs with dilated cardiomyopathy.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37228845/) [16] [Radiographic features of cardiogenic pulmonary oedema in dogs with dilated cardiomyopathy.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40101290/) [17] [Preliminary investigation of T-wave peak-end interval and its ratio to QT interval in dogs with an echocardiographic phenotype of dilated cardiomyopathy and its possible correlation with left ventricular diameter and volume.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42242283/) [18] [Different carbohydrate sources in dog foods supported overall health and cardiac function: an 18-mo prospective study in healthy adult dogs.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40642821/) [19] [Gene-expression profiling of endomyocardial biopsies from dogs with dilated cardiomyopathy phenotype.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38508121/) [20] [Determination of Retinol, Cholecalciferol, α-Tocopherol and Phylloquinone Levels in Dogs with Dilated Cardiomyopathy: A Preliminary Study.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40941272/) ## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides * [Pancreatitis in Dogs: High-Fat Danger, Fluid Therapy and Bland Diets](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/internal-medicine/pancreatitis-in-dogs-high-fat-danger-fluid-therapy-and-bland-diets) * [Addisons Disease in Dogs: Hypoadrenocorticism Crisis Electrolyte Balance](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/internal-medicine/addisons-disease-in-dogs-hypoadrenocorticism-crisis-electrolyte-balance) * [Hypothyroidism in Dogs: Weight Gain, Lethargy and Thyroxine Dosing](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/internal-medicine/hypothyroidism-in-dogs-weight-gain-lethargy-and-thyroxine-dosing)