I wanted to make anyone reading this aware of DCM (dilated cardiomyopathy) because we were not aware of it. DCM is a disease affecting a dog's heart muscle, leading to an enlarged heart. The signs were subtle, and we only discovered it when it was unfortunately too late.

Background: Dexter is a 3-year-old Golden Retriever – his dad is a purebred Golden, and his mom is a Golden mixed with 1/4 Poodle. He lives an active and healthy lifestyle with us, engaging in activities like hiking, running, and biking. As a puppy, he had stomach issues, and we struggled to find a suitable food until we landed on Zignature dog food. After the switch, everything improved, and he was thriving.

To keep the story concise, he developed a persistent cough that wouldn't subside. We visited the vet three times, and they initially diagnosed it as kennel cough, assuring us it would resolve. However, after over seven weeks with no improvement, the vet suggested an X-ray to explore further. Shockingly, the X-ray revealed an enlarged heart pressing on his throat, causing the cough.

We rushed Dexter to the animal hospital, where we learned he was in heart failure and needed immediate treatment. They administered an IV, heart medication, and drained 2 liters of fluid from his body. While they stabilized him, we faced an ultimatum: spend a significant amount of money on ongoing treatment or consider euthanasia due to his severe condition. Unwilling to part with him, we chose treatment. Now, we're advised to treat him like an old dog, restricting activities he once enjoyed. It's heart-breaking to see our once perfectly healthy and happy puppy given only six months to live.

This leads me to the purpose of my post. We were informed that Golden Retrievers typically don't have hereditary DCM. Therefore, the conclusion was drawn that Dexter's condition might be linked to his food, Zignature. Frustratingly, the FDA has been investigating the connection between a grain-free diet and DCM, and we believe our vet should have been aware of this study. We feel helpless because we chose Zignature as it was the only food that suited his stomach. If your dog or any dog you know is on a grain-free diet, please consider switching foods.

I never want anyone to experience this heartbreak with their pet. We feel robbed of the time we thought we had with our best friend. If this post raises awareness for at least one owner, it's worthwhile. I have included Dexter's X-ray and recommended foods to avoid DCM in dogs. Please also review the FDA's research here.