Echocardiographic and electrocardiographic findings in Irish Wolfhounds eating high-pulse or low-pulse diets

Lily M. Coppinger, Lisa M. Freeman, William D. Tyrrell Jr, Steven L. Rosenthal, Mariellen E. Dentino, Frances L. Abrams, John E. Rush

Background: This study investigates whether Irish Wolfhounds consuming high-pulse diets exhibit cardiac abnormalities similar to those noted in other breeds consuming nontraditional diets. Previous research has shown that nontraditional diets, high in pulses like peas and lentils, may be linked to larger left ventricular diameters, decreased systolic function, and increased ventricular premature complexes (VPCs) in various dog breeds.

Methods: The study was retrospective, analyzing echocardiography data collected at dog shows from October 2018 to May 2021. Ninety-seven Irish Wolfhounds were included, categorized based on their primary diet into high-pulse (35 dogs) and low-pulse (62 dogs) groups. Diets were classified by the presence of pulses in the top ten ingredients. Cardiac assessments included echocardiographic measurements and a 1-minute lead II rhythm strip to check for VPCs.

Results: The study found no significant differences in echocardiographic measurements between the two diet groups. However, a higher percentage of dogs on high-pulse diets (17%) exhibited VPCs compared to those on low-pulse diets (2%). This suggests a potential association between high-pulse diets and the occurrence of VPCs, indicating possible early cardiac abnormalities.

Limitations: The study's retrospective nature and the method of detecting arrhythmias (using a short rhythm strip rather than a 24-hour Holter monitor) may underrepresent the actual prevalence of VPCs. Additionally, the diet classification relied on owner reports and could be subject to inaccuracies. Moreover, variations in body condition scores and lack of uniformity in physical examinations could have influenced the results.

Conclusions: While no echocardiographic differences were noted, the increased prevalence of VPCs in dogs on high-pulse diets warrants further investigation. This study suggests that dietary composition, specifically pulse content, may influence cardiac health in Irish Wolfhounds, aligning with findings in other breeds impacted by diet-associated cardiac conditions. Further research is needed to understand the implications of high-pulse diets on canine heart health fully.

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