Congestive heart failure is common in older dogs and requires careful management to maintain quality of life and minimize suffering.
Heart failure in dogs causes progressive respiratory distress that is deeply distressing. Dogs struggle to breathe, tire rapidly, and may wake from sleep in respiratory crisis. Medical management with diuretics, ACE inhibitors, and pimobendan can maintain good quality of life for months to years after diagnosis. Welfare assessment should include activity levels, sleeping comfort, enjoyment of food and social interaction, and absence of distress. End-of-life decisions should prioritize freedom from respiratory distress and dignified death. Breeding reforms in Cavaliers aim to reduce the genetic burden of mitral valve disease.