Heart Murmurs

Heart murmurs are caused by some turbulence in the blood flow in the heart or large blood vessels. This can be due to many things such as heart defects, temporary or permanent changes in the shape or size of the valves in the heart or the large blood vessels, changes in the thickness of the blood or changes in the rate that the blood flows through the heart or larger vessels. 

Heart murmurs do not affect health in about 95% of dogs diagnosed. However dogs with very loud murmurs, may be subject to fainting, or even be sudden death. Minor "flow" murmurs are commonly found in young puppies, but mostly disappear by about 16 weeks of age. Even if they continue there may be no cause for alarm if they are quiet. 

Puppies with this condition tend to act like most other puppies, playful and rambunctious, however, they tend to tire easily and lose their breath faster then healthy dogs. Like all health problems or concerns one should consult with a vet to determine the severity of the condition and the treatments needed to help the puppy live a long and happy life.