7 Tips on When to Get Your Dog’s Echocardiogram and How to Read the Results

HeartTop PicksMeongsiljang Veterinary Advisory Board

Echocardiography is a key diagnostic tool for precisely evaluating your dog’s heart structure and function. Regular screenings help detect heart disease early on.

What Is a Canine Echocardiogram (Echo)?

The chest area of a dog undergoing an echocardiogram

An echocardiogram (echo) is a non-invasive test that allows real-time visualization of your dog’s heart structure and function, enabling precise analysis of heart rate, valve motion, and blood flow. It is especially valuable for the early detection of common acquired heart conditions such as valvular disease and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). While the procedure can be performed without anesthesia, stress or anxiety may affect the interpretation of results, so it is best conducted in a professional clinical setting.

Selection Criteria: Tips for Choosing a Clinic for Cardiac Ultrasound

When choosing an echocardiogram for your dog, be sure to check the following criteria. The accuracy and safety of the test largely depend on the hospital’s equipment and expertise. First, confirm that the clinic has dedicated cardiac ultrasound equipment. Second, verify that the veterinarian has extensive experience in diagnosing heart disease. Third, ensure that sufficient time is allocated for the examination. Fourth, check whether a detailed and accurate report is provided after the test. Fifth, make sure the environment is designed to minimize stress for your dog.

A veterinarian analyzing the results of a cardiac ultrasound.

Check 1: Dedicated Cardiac Ultrasound with Color Doppler

A canine cardiac ultrasound must assess not only anatomical structure but also blood flow and valvular regurgitation to be accurate. Therefore, it is important to verify that the clinic uses dedicated cardiac ultrasound equipment equipped with color and continuous-wave Doppler functions. Doppler capability allows for the quantitative evaluation of findings such as left atrial enlargement, valvular regurgitation, and outflow tract obstruction, enabling proper assessment of the progression of common conditions like dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and valvular disease. Since equipment specifications directly impact diagnostic accuracy, it is advisable to choose a clinic with extensive experience in cardiac examinations rather than one that only offers general abdominal ultrasound.

The interior of the Cardiac Specialty Center and its diagnostic equipment

Check 2: Integrated Circulatory Care and Ancillary Tests

Rather than relying solely on an echocardiogram, it’s best to choose a clinic that also offers blood pressure monitoring, electrocardiography (ECG), and blood tests for cardiac biomarkers like NT-proBNP. Dogs are adept at masking symptoms, so a comprehensive evaluation is essential when heart murmurs or changes in breathing are detected to avoid missing early-stage heart disease. You can feel more at ease if the clinic provides a low-stress environment before exams and is equipped for hospitalization and oxygen therapy when needed. Ideally, look for a practice that conducts regular follow-ups and compares new imaging results with previous records.

A puppy undergoing an echocardiogram at Carrot Animal Hospital.

Check 3: Veterinarian-Performed Quantitative Measurements and Direct Result Explanation

Even with the same echocardiogram images, a veterinarian’s experience plays a crucial role in accurately measuring and interpreting values such as the left atrium-to-aorta ratio and ventricular wall thickness. Choose a clinic where veterinarians regularly perform cardiac ultrasounds and personally explain to you how the measurements compare to normal ranges, as well as whether medication or follow-up exams are needed. Opt for a hospital with veterinarians who don’t just hand you the results, but also guide you through a comprehensive plan for ongoing care.

During an echocardiogram for a senior dog

Checklist for Selecting a Clinic for Cardiac Ultrasound

Item	Recommended criteria
Equipment	A facility with a dedicated cardiac ultrasound equipped with color and continuous-wave Doppler
Testing operation	A facility that reviews supplementary tests such as blood pressure, ECG, and NT-proBNP together
Interpretation capability	A veterinarian with extensive echocardiography experience who performs quantitative measurements accurately
Result interpretation	A facility that directly explains measured values in comparison with normal ranges and provides a management plan
Cost guidance	A facility that informs you in advance of the estimated cost and the possibility of additional tests before the exam

This is not a table recommending specific products or hospitals, but criteria to reference when consulting your veterinarian. Treatment and testing decisions must always be made together with your veterinarian through an examination.

Caution: Essential Points to Know for Your Dog’s Echo Exam

If you suspect your dog has a heart condition, it’s essential to have them examined at a specialized veterinary clinic. In particular, if symptoms of cardiac arrest or acute heart failure appear, immediate veterinary care is necessary. Before the examination, provide your veterinarian with accurate information about your dog’s condition. Since stress during the test can skew results, ensure your dog gets plenty of rest beforehand.

Usage Tips: Pre- and Post-Exam Care for Your Dog’s Echo

Keep your dog’s food intake at normal levels starting the day before the test, and allow only water on the morning of the exam. One hour prior to the procedure, place your dog in a quiet area to minimize stress. After the test, wait until your dog has fully relaxed and returned to a comfortable state. Once you receive the results, work with your veterinarian to develop a management plan. Regular check-ups are essential for ongoing monitoring of your dog’s heart health.

A calm puppy and its owner after the examination

Reviewed by a veterinarian

Dr. Tony — Punnawat Phongkittirak

Veterinarian

A veterinarian who majored in veterinary medicine at Khon Kaen University, Thailand, and completed the IVSA program at North Carolina State University in the United States. Drawing on clinical experience at animal hospitals, he works in the pet healthcare field and is dedicated to building a digital care environment that connects pet parents with veterinarians.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a dog’s echocardiogram require anesthesia?

No, a dog’s cardiac ultrasound can be performed without anesthesia. However, if your dog is anxious, the results may be compromised, so it’s important to keep them calm before the procedure.

Even if the echocardiogram results are normal, are regular check-ups still necessary?

Yes, we especially recommend regular check-ups for senior dogs and breeds at genetic risk for heart disease (such as Dobermans, which are prone to dilated cardiomyopathy). Early detection makes a significant difference in treatment outcomes.

How much does an echocardiogram cost?

Costs vary depending on the clinic, the specific tests performed, and your pet’s condition. For an exact quote, please contact the clinic where you plan to have the tests done.

Is your dog uncomfortable during the exam?

The exam itself is painless. However, your dog may feel confused or tense because the veterinarian will touch them and place an ultrasound probe on their skin. It’s important to help your dog stay calm before the procedure.

What should I do if the echocardiogram results show abnormalities?

Work with your veterinarian to develop a treatment plan, which may include medication, dietary management, and regular follow-up exams. Early intervention plays a crucial role in preventing the progression of heart disease.

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References

[1] Textbook of Cardiovascular Medicine in Dogs and Cats, 2020

[2] Small Animal Critical Care Medicine, 3rd Ed, 2021

[3] Feline Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, 2nd Ed, 2019