Understanding and Managing High Blood Pressure in Dogs

This pet health content was written by veterinarians, Dr. Debora Lichtenberg, VMD, and Dr. Pippa Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS. It was reviewed for accuracy by Dr. Elliott and was last updated Dec. 17, 2018.

Introduction to High Blood Pressure in Dogs

High blood pressure in dogs wasn’t considered a significant problem until fairly recently. Now, we understand that it is linked to serious diseases in dogs and requires monitoring.

What is Blood Pressure?

• Blood pressure is the pressure the blood exerts as it flows against the blood vessels.
• High blood pressure, or hypertension, is an abnormal elevation in that pressure.
• It can lead to serious problems in both pets and people, though it’s more common in people.

Causes and Effects

• Changes in blood vessels make it harder to push blood around the body, increasing resistance and blood pressure.
• Certain conditions are associated with hypertension, though some cases are “idiopathic,” meaning no cause is found.

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High Blood Pressure in Dogs vs. People

Many people have primary hypertension, which means it’s not linked to any other medical condition. However, dogs rarely have primary hypertension. Instead, they usually have secondary high blood pressure caused by conditions such as kidney disease, Cushing’s disease, hyperthyroidism, and diabetes.

Key Differences

• People often have high blood pressure due to lifestyle factors, such as smoking or poor diet.
• Dogs typically experience hypertension as a secondary condition to other diseases.

Lifestyle and Stress Factors

• Dogs generally lead a stress-free life compared to humans. While people juggle jobs, children, and other responsibilities, dogs are usually more relaxed.
• For most well-cared-for dogs, their stress levels are minimal, contributing to lower instances of primary hypertension.

Measuring Blood Pressure in Dogs

During a recent vet visit, your veterinarian might have suggested measuring the blood pressure of your dog. This suggestion could arise from something in your dog’s history indicating that high blood pressure might be a problem or as part of a geriatric work-up.

Why Blood Pressure Measurement Isn’t Routine

• Hypertension is not common in dogs.
• There is still a large margin of error when measuring blood pressure in dogs. This is attributed to the “white coat” phenomenon (stress caused by being seen by the doctor) and the difficulty in taking measurements in smaller animals.

Relating to the White Coat Issue

• Many people experience anxiety as soon as they walk into their physician’s office. Dogs can experience similar stress, affecting blood pressure readings.

Methods of Measurement

There are two ways to measure a dog’s blood pressure:

• With a doppler
• With an oscillometric meter

Tips for Accurate Measurement

• Using either of these instruments requires technique and patience on the vet’s part and calmness and patience on your part.
• You may be asked to be in the room for a calming effect on your dog.
• Your soothing presence and low voice are essential for obtaining several accurate readings.

Procedure

• Before taking the blood pressure reading, your vet will likely try to get your dog into a quiet room quickly, away from the waiting room.
• The general rule is to let the dog acclimate to the new surroundings for a few minutes before taking a blood pressure reading.
• If the dog seems more relaxed after the exam, your vet may take the blood pressure again and compare the readings.
• The vet may take multiple readings, often at least 3–4, to get an average.

In the video below, David Liss, RVT, demonstrates how to take a dog’s blood pressure:

Managing High Blood Pressure in Dogs

If the readings are high and the dog has a condition that can cause hypertension, then:

• Blood pressure medicine should probably be prescribed.
• Lowering the salt content of the food is also a good move at this point.

Once the primary disease is identified and controlled, the blood pressure medicine may be discontinued. This is important because overly lowering blood pressure or unnecessary medication can cause the dog to become weak and dehydrated, which can be dangerous.

Associated Diseases Causing High Blood Pressure in Dogs

Kidney Disease

• Dogs can develop high blood pressure if they are in kidney failure and may require medication.
• The vet will likely recheck the blood pressure in 1–3 weeks after starting medication. Some medications also require blood checks to ensure they aren’t harming the kidneys.

Cushing’s Disease

• Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism) is another major cause of high blood pressure in dogs. Dogs with Cushing’s disease have an 80% risk of hypertension.
• Treating high blood pressure alongside Cushing’s disease can reduce the risk of stroke-like events common in dogs with Cushing’s.

Diabetes

• Diabetes can cause high blood pressure, particularly in diabetic dogs. Blood pressure in these pets needs to be monitored regularly.

Symptoms of High Blood Pressure in Dogs

The most serious clinical manifestations of untreated hypertension in dogs are ocular and neurologic emergencies such as:

• Acute blindness
• Seizures
• Vascular “accidents” resembling strokes

These can be fatal in some instances. The symptoms of high blood pressure in dogs can be dramatic, including “funny turns” or, more seriously, strokes. Sadly, the first sign can be sudden death, highlighting the need for regular blood pressure screening to catch the problem before a catastrophic event occurs. In these cases, if hypertension is found, lowering the blood pressure quickly is essential for the dog’s survival and recovery.

In most cases, however, hypertension in dogs is a chronic condition that can be managed over months as you work to lower blood pressure and treat the primary disease.

Risk Factors for Hypertension in Dogs

High blood pressure in dogs, also known as hypertension, can be influenced by several risk factors. Understanding these can help in early detection and management of the condition.

Breed Predisposition

Certain dog breeds are more susceptible to developing hypertension. Breeds such as Dobermans, Schnauzers, and Poodles have a higher risk due to genetic predispositions.

Age

As dogs age, the likelihood of developing hypertension increases. Senior dogs, particularly those over the age of seven, should be regularly monitored for high blood pressure.

Pre-existing Health Conditions

Dogs with underlying health conditions are at greater risk of hypertension. These conditions include:

• Kidney disease: Dogs with kidney issues often experience elevated blood pressure as the kidneys play a crucial role in regulating blood pressure.
• Cushing’s disease: This condition, caused by an overproduction of cortisol, frequently leads to high blood pressure.
• Diabetes: Dogs with diabetes may develop hypertension due to the effects of high blood sugar levels on blood vessels and overall circulation.

Obesity

Obesity is a significant risk factor for hypertension in dogs. Excess weight puts additional strain on the heart and blood vessels, leading to increased blood pressure.

Diet and Lifestyle

A diet high in sodium can contribute to high blood pressure in dogs. Ensuring your dog has a balanced diet and maintains an active lifestyle can help mitigate this risk.

Regular check-ups and awareness of these risk factors can aid in the early detection and management of hypertension in dogs, ensuring better health and quality of life.

Long-Term Management of Hypertension in Dogs

Managing high blood pressure in dogs requires a comprehensive approach, focusing on regular monitoring, medication, and lifestyle adjustments.

Regular Monitoring

Continuous monitoring of blood pressure is crucial in managing hypertension. Regular veterinary visits to check blood pressure help in tracking the effectiveness of treatments and making necessary adjustments.

Medication

Medications play a vital role in controlling high blood pressure. Common medications include ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, and diuretics. These medications help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications.

Dietary Adjustments

Modifying your dog’s diet can significantly impact blood pressure management. A low-sodium diet helps in controlling hypertension. Additionally, providing a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients supports overall cardiovascular health.

Weight Management

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial in managing high blood pressure. Regular exercise and a balanced diet help in achieving and sustaining a healthy weight, reducing the strain on the heart and blood vessels.

Managing Underlying Conditions

Treating underlying conditions like kidney disease, Cushing’s disease, and diabetes is essential. Effective management of these conditions can help control secondary hypertension and improve overall health.

Lifestyle Modifications

Incorporating lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, stress reduction, and routine vet check-ups can aid in managing hypertension. Activities like daily walks and interactive play help keep your dog active and reduce stress levels.

By following these strategies, you can effectively manage high blood pressure in dogs, ensuring they lead a healthy and active life. Regular consultations with your veterinarian will help tailor the management plan to your dog’s specific needs, providing the best care possible.

Future Treatment Improvements

We still have much to learn about diagnosing and monitoring blood pressure in dogs. Some animals have been misdiagnosed with hypertension and are on unnecessary blood pressure medication due to inaccuracies in measurements and the white coat effect. Conversely, some dogs are like ticking time bombs because high blood pressure can have an insidious onset, be asymptomatic, and thus go undiagnosed.

As our ability to measure blood pressure more accurately improves, so will the treatment.

Preventing High Blood Pressure in Dogs

Regular screening of dogs, especially those classified as “senior,” can detect blood pressure changes in the early stages before they cause significant problems.

Current Recommendations

• Dogs with Cushing’s disease should have their blood pressure measured every 3 months.
• For dogs over the age of 7 years but otherwise well, once-yearly screening is sufficient. Once they reach their teens, it should be twice a year.
• If your dog has been diagnosed with one of the associated diseases or if you have noticed changes in their mental behavior or eyesight, see your vet to discuss possible causes.

Be patient with blood pressure measurements. You may have to return for another visit to confirm readings. In some cases, a home visit may be necessary if the dog is extremely stressed in the vet’s office.

Tips for Lowering Your Own Blood Pressure

• Stop smoking!
• Watch your partying!
• Lay off the extra salt!
• Take a stress-free dog walk!

And then go home and pet that great dog of yours. It’s proven to lower blood pressure.

Frequently Asked Questions

References

• Burkitt Creedon, Jamie M., DVM, DACVECC. “Indirect Blood Pressure Measurement.” NAVC Clinician’s Brief. May 2012. http://www.petvetbiomed.com/html5/web/10200/24004ImageFile3.pdf.
• Primmer, Kathryn, DVM. “Journal Scan: New Insights on Treating Hypertension in Cats.” DVM360. March 29, 2017. http://veterinarymedicine.dvm360.com/journal-scan-new-insights-treating-hypertension-cats.
• Tilley, Larry P. and Francis W.K. Smith Jr. Blackwell’s Five-Minute Veterinary Consult: Canine and Feline. Wiley Blackwell. 706–07.
• Vormbrock, J.K. and J.M. Grossberg. “Cardiovascular Effects of Human-Pet Dog Interactions.” Journal of Behavioral Medicine. 1988 Oct;11(5):509–17. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3236382/.
• “Systemic Hypertension in Dogs.” VCA Animal Hospitals. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/systemic-hypertension-in-dogs
• “High Blood Pressure in Dogs.” PetMD. https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/cardiovascular/high-blood-pressure-dogs
• “Hypertension in Dogs.” Pacific Santa Cruz Veterinary Hospital. https://www.pacificsantacruzvet.com/site/blog/2023/05/15/hypertension-in-dogs