Tachycardia
Also known as: Tachykardie · Herzrasen · Ventricular Tachycardia · Supraventricular Tachycardia · SVT · …
Overview
What it is
Tachycardia is an abnormally rapid heart rate affecting the cardiovascular system. When the heart beats too fast, it cannot fill properly with blood between beats, which reduces its ability to pump oxygen throughout the body. This abnormal rhythm is often triggered by underlying structural heart diseases, such as dilated cardiomyopathy, which weakens the heart muscle.
How it presents
Owners may notice their dog tiring quickly during exercise, panting excessively, or having pale gums. In severe cases, the dog may experience sudden fainting spells. Depending on the underlying heart condition causing the rapid rhythm, symptoms can appear at any age.
Treatment
This condition is treatable but typically requires lifelong management with daily medications and regular veterinary monitoring, including heart ultrasounds. The estimated cost for ongoing diagnostics and treatment ranges from €1,500 to €7,000.
How it's tested
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment costs. Actual costs depend on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked questions
What is Tachycardia?
Tachycardia is an abnormally rapid heart rate affecting the cardiovascular system. When the heart beats too fast, it cannot fill properly with blood between beats, which reduces its ability to pump oxygen throughout the body. This abnormal rhythm is often triggered by underlying structural heart diseases, such as dilated cardiomyopathy, which weakens the heart muscle.
How is Tachycardia tested?
Various clinical and genetic tests are used depending on the breed and presentation.
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.