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My dog has an enlarged heart. Is he in pain despite no crying?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mastiff | Male | 7 years and 2 months old | 88 lbs

My 7 year old canecorso has been diagnosed with an enlarged heart. He has no cough but is breathing heavily. His abdomen is bloated and he has become very weak. He has a low appetite. He finds it difficult to get up to go out and relieve himself. However he is not crying or complaining. Is my dog in pain. I do not want him to suffer. Is there much hope. Thanks

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on August 20th, 2017

I'm sorry Haachiko is feeling so poorly at the moment! Unfortunately yes, it is likely he is in pain. Dogs can be very stoic when ill, and will often be in pain without necessarily vocalizing the pain. All of the symptoms you are seeing indicate he is quite ill and he will be feeling very badly. There is no cure for heart disease, but mediation can be given to manage his symptoms. I would speak to your vet about medications that may be appropriate for him. I'm sorry he is so ill :-(

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