A retrospective study of canine dilated cardiomyopathy (189 cases).

The case records of 189 dogs (including 38 breeds) with congestive heart failure caused by dilated cardiomyopathy were studied retrospectively. Airedale terriers, boxers, Doberman pinschers, English cocker spaniels, Newfoundlands, St. Bernards, and standard poodles were over-represented. German shepherd dogs were under-represented. A male predominance was observed. Systolic murmurs were detected in 25% of the cases. Atrial fibrillation was the most common arrhythmia. Mild hyperglycemia and mild-to-moderate hypercholesterolemia were found in 38% and 33% of cases, respectively. Histopathological changes consisted of attenuated wavy fibers and interstitial fibrosis.