Changes noted in the dog across a variety of parameters all are important indicators and help narrow the diagnosis.
- History — in-depth questioning about the following:
- Changes in attitude/behaviour/activity level
- Changes in appetite
- Weight loss or gain
- Normal water intake
- Breathing pattern
- Coughing
- Urinary habits
- Sleep habits
- Previous evidence of heart disease (eg, murmur, radiographic changes)
- Any preceding treatments undergone for the dog’s condition