Heart murmurs in dogs
A heart murmur is the sound of turbulent blood flow. Some puppies have harmless murmurs that fade; others point to heart disease that needs a closer look.
Last updated: October 2026 · 2 sources · see sources
Signs to watch for
- Often none
- Sometimes coughing, tiring easily, fast breathing or fainting if heart disease is present
Trouble breathing, collapse, repeated vomiting, not peeing, or a seizure that lasts more than a few minutes needs a vet right away. See when to see a vet.
How vets diagnose it
Your vet grades the murmur with a stethoscope. Chest X-rays, an NT-proBNP test and an echocardiogram find the cause. [2]
How it's treated
Treatment depends on the cause. Some need only monitoring; others need heart medicine or, for certain birth defects, a procedure. [2]
Medicines your vet may mention: Vetmedin (Pimobendan). We don't list doses; your vet will decide what fits your pet.
What it costs to diagnose and manage
| Item | Typical US price | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Diagnosis (exam and tests) | $500–$2,000 | [1] |
| Ongoing treatment, per month | $50–$200 | [1] |
| Ongoing treatment over a year (monthly range × 12) | $600–$2,400 | [1] |
These are typical US ranges from the sources listed. Your pet's costs depend on how severe things are, the tests your vet recommends, your pet's size and where you live. Ask your vet for a written estimate.
Outlook
Many dogs with murmurs live normal lives. Rechecks help catch any change. [2]
Common questions
What is heart murmurs in dogs?
A heart murmur is the sound of turbulent blood flow. Some puppies have harmless murmurs that fade; others point to heart disease that needs a closer look.
What are the signs of heart murmurs?
Common signs include: often none, sometimes coughing, tiring easily, fast breathing or fainting if heart disease is present.
How do vets diagnose heart murmurs?
Your vet grades the murmur with a stethoscope. Chest X-rays, an NT-proBNP test and an echocardiogram find the cause.
How is heart murmurs treated?
Treatment depends on the cause. Some need only monitoring; others need heart medicine or, for certain birth defects, a procedure.
How much does heart murmurs cost to treat?
Diagnosis (exam and tests): $500–$2,000; Ongoing treatment, per month: $50–$200; Ongoing treatment over a year (monthly range × 12): $600–$2,400. Costs vary with severity, tests, your pet's size and where you live.
Related
This page is general information for pet owners, not veterinary advice. Talk to your vet about your own pet.