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Why is my senior dog wheezing with a murmur and enlarged heart?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Maltese | Male | neutered | 8 lbs

My dog is a ten year old Maltese and he has been wheezing quite heavily for the past few weeks when he sleeps and rests. In emerg they said he had a slight murmur and slightly enlarged heart but nothing to concerning. Do you have any ideas of what might be happening? I am worried about him as I’ve had him since he was six months old and he has never been sick or anything.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Marlow Ball, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 29th, 2017

Heart disease is tough. This is true for humans or animals. Pets can quickly go from ok to not ok in minutes. Most forms of heart disease are progressive which means they get worse over time. Signs of worsening heart disease can be increased heart rate and respiratory rate, collapse, exercise intolerance, or coughing. There are many medications that can help improve quality of life. Please see your vet ASAP for an exam and possibly more tests or meds. Hope Boomer feels better!

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