GSMDCA Health Foundation, Inc.
A 501(c)3 organization established in 2022 to continue the work of the GSMDCA in research and education to assure the healthy future of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
Canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a primary disease of cardiac muscle that results in a decreased ability of the heart to generate pressure to pump blood through the vascular system. The definitive cause of canine DCM is the subject of debate, although a number of factors including nutritional, infectious, and genetic predisposition have been implicated. The fact that canine DCM occurs at a higher incidence in specific breeds suggests a heritable genetic component to this disease, although it is likely that it’s etiology is multifactorial. Read More:
DCM link to grain-free diets?
Latest research from the FDA
In December 22, 2022, the FDA released it’s current update, and overall third public report, on the status of non-hereditary canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and grain-free diets. The FDA began investigating the issue in July 2018, when a high number of dogs eating certain grain-free diets containing a high proportion of peas, lentils, other legume seeds (pulses), and/or potatoes in various forms (whole, flour, protein, etc.) as main ingredients (listed within the first 10 ingredients in the ingredient list, before vitamins and minerals) developed DCM. ...
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