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Why is my dog breathing fast with an enlarged heart and tooth?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund | 15 years old

My dog has abscessed tooth and I had an X-ray done today with blood work because of a murmur. Her heart is enlarged. I noticed tonight she is breathing 60 beats per minute. I don’t know if it her tooth or if heart. Vet did not see any fluid in long or hear anything. We are scheduled for an echocardiogram on Thursday. Her tongue looks pink and gums look pink. I am just want to know if she is struggling. I don’t want her to struggle.i lost my other baby to congestive heart failure 12/22 scared

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on January 14th, 2020

Pain from a tooth can cause an increased heart rate, but given that Hope has an enlarged heart, that could also be a cause. Without seeing her in person, I can't say what is causing it. If her gums are pink, that's a good sign that's she's not struggling. I'd be worried if her gums were blue.

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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