December 23, 2022: 

FDA does not intend to release further public updates until there is meaningful new scientific information to share. A count of reports of DCM in dogs submitted to FDA as of November 1, 2022, has been added to Questions & Answers: FDA’s Work on Potential Causes of Non-Hereditary DCM in Dogs. FDA has followed up on a subset of these reports, but is unable to investigate every report to verify or confirm the reported information. While adverse event numbers can be a potential signal of an issue with an FDA regulated product, by themselves, they do not supply sufficient data to establish a causal relationship with reported product(s). FDA continues to encourage research and collaboration by academia, veterinarians, and industry. 

This is copied from the FDA website, here is the link! The first sentence says it all. No meaningful scientific evidence. I still hear about the list that was circulated back in 2017-2019 about which dog food brands to stay away from. I was not surprised to read that all your quality brands were at the top. No surprise when you have a conglomerate trying to eliminate its competition. The people who know and understand these brands and how sourcing works, which makes these brands superior to mass produced brands, already know why this list is out there.

What is canine dilated cardiomyopathy?

Canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a serious condition that affects the heart muscle of dogs. It causes the heart to become enlarged and weak, reducing its ability to pump blood effectively. This can lead to signs of heart failure, such as coughing, breathing difficulties, fatigue, collapse, and even sudden death.

DCM can have different causes, such as genetic factors, nutritional deficiencies, infections, or toxins. Some breeds are more prone to develop DCM, such as Doberman Pinschers, Great Danes, Boxers, and Cocker Spaniels. However, DCM can also affect other breeds and mixed-breed dogs.

The diagnosis of DCM is based on physical examination, chest X-rays, electrocardiogram (ECG), and echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart). These tests can reveal the size and function of the heart chambers and valves, as well as any abnormal heart rhythms.

The treatment of DCM aims to improve the heart function, reduce the fluid accumulation in the lungs or abdomen, and control the heart rate and rhythm. This may involve medications, dietary supplements, and special diets. In some cases, a pacemaker or a defibrillator may be implanted to regulate the heart rhythm.

The prognosis of DCM depends on the severity of the disease, the response to treatment, and the presence of other health problems. DCM is a progressive and irreversible condition that can shorten the lifespan of affected dogs. However, with proper management and monitoring, some dogs can live longer and have a good quality of life.

If you have a dog that is at risk for or diagnosed with DCM, you should consult your veterinarian regularly and follow their recommendations. You should also monitor your dog for any signs of worsening heart failure or arrhythmia. Early detection and intervention can make a difference for your dog’s health and well-being.

Sources:

– Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) | Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine

– Dilated Cardiomyopathy in Dogs | VCA Animal Hospitals

– Cardiology: Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy | Veterinary Hospital

– US study finds potential dog food link to canine heart disease | The Guardian