Bradycardia in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

What is Bradycardia?

Bradycardia is a condition in dogs characterized by a heart rate that falls below the normal range. In dogs, a normal heart rate ranges from 70 to 120 beats per minute (bpm). Bradycardia occurs when the heart rate falls below 60 bpm.

Causes of Bradycardia

Bradycardia can be caused by several factors, including:

• Hypothyroidism
• Heart disease
• Drug side effects
• Electrolyte imbalances
• Increased vagal tone

Symptoms of Bradycardia

The symptoms of bradycardia can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Mild bradycardia may not cause any noticeable symptoms. However, more severe bradycardia can lead to the following symptoms:

• Weakness
• Lethargy
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Difficulty breathing
• Blue-tinted gums

Treatment for Bradycardia

The treatment for bradycardia depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, no treatment is necessary. However, if the bradycardia is causing symptoms, treatment may be necessary to increase the heart rate.

Treatment options for bradycardia may include:

• Medications to increase the heart rate
• Pacemaker implantation
• Surgery

Prognosis for Bradycardia

The prognosis for bradycardia depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. In some cases, bradycardia can be managed with medication or other treatments. However, in severe cases, bradycardia can be fatal.