The canine heart is a muscle capable of withstanding a large amount of pressure and it is designed for large exigencies. However, this muscle does lose elasticity throughout the years. As a result, your dog will start to grow tired because of potential breathing problems, and he will not endure efforts that he could make before. Your veterinarian can help you if you react quickly when noticing these symptoms. If attention is given to the ailment of your dog and the right precautions are taken, your dog can lead a normal life. On the other hand, if these symptoms are ignored, the heart starts to grow weaker, to the extent that your dog wiold dog illinessll no longer maintain blood circulation to pump oxygen to all the organs of his body. If this occurs, there is true danger of a circulatory collapse. Many dogs suffer from a deformity in the valve of their heart, which in most cases is undetectable. Naturally, the deformity decreases the efficiency of the heart, but the canine heart can withstand a whole lot. Since the heart works in conjunction with the other organs of a dog's body, a malfunction in the heart can negatively affect his other organs. For example, a dog could develop a pulmonary edema. This occurs when the heart does not pump sufficiently and as a result, liquid is accumulated in the lungs. An old dog can contract chronic bronchitis, which can gradually become pneumonia. Hence, if your old dog is constantly coughing, it is definitely good reason to go to the veterinary and have your dog checked. Obviously medication cannot make a sick heart beat for ever, but making sure you take the right precautions with your dog will enhance his way of living.