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My dog has an enlarged heart. Is that why he's collapsing or fainting?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 13 years and 11 months old | 12.2 lbs

My dog has an enlarged heart. Could that be the cause of suddenly collapsing? Almost like a fainting spell, but he didn’t actually pass out

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on October 19th, 2017

Yes, that could be the cause of Toby's collapse. It's called syncope, and it occurs in dogs who have an enlarged heart because of an interruption of the blood supply to the brain. Have him seen by a vet asap. Syncope is a very serious symptom of heart disease, and he likely needs medications to help with his heart problems.

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