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My dog has a strange rib cage formation. Is it aging or heartworms?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) | Male | neutered | 11 years and 8 months old | 8 lbs

My dog has this weird rib cage formation on both sides , he has had this for at least 3 years or more. I asked the vet a about a little more then a month and they said it was because of aging but I'm also worried it's heartworms but I think it's just me. The vet also listened to his heart and said he sounded fine.

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1 Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 25th, 2020

Hello. That does look weird. But, it is not from heartworms. If Nito had heartworms, he would be coughing or having problems breathing. If you are concerned about heartworms, do ask your veterinarian to do a heartworm test. Thanks for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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