My dog has a heart murmur. Is it safe for him to exercise normally?

Question

Our vet found a heart murmur yesterday for the first time. They said they will check him again at our follow up this Sunday, and in a few weeks if it’s still there. I forgot to ask them if activity levels need to change at all? Can he still play normally and hike and go on long walks still for now? He’s very active. Pet's info: Dog | Bernese Mountain Dog | Male | neutered | 1 year and 7 months old | 75 lbs

Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA · Accepted Answer

Hi there. If Theodore is acting normal, you shouldn't need to change anything about his normal daily routine or activities. A heart murmur doesn't necessarily mean that there is anything actually wrong with his heart, and many types of heart disease do not require exercise restriction regardless. So I wouldn't get too concerned or change anything major unless your veterinarian confirms there is an actual problem, via chest x-rays and ultrasound of his heart.

My dog has a heart murmur. Is it safe for him to exercise normally?

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