Epidemiological Assessment of Systemic Hypertension in Dogs

Abstract

Systemic hypertension in dogs is a clinically significant condition often associated with underlying diseases. The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and distribution of hypertension in dogs. A total of 214 dogs (149 males and 65 females, irrespective of age and breed) were surveyed randomly at the Veterinary Clinical Complex, College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, India, between May and October 2024. This study comprised of 81 clinically healthy dogs and 133 dogs diagnosed with various systemic co-morbidities. Blood pressure measurements were performed using a Doppler Vet BP machine following ACVIM guidelines (Acierno et al.,2018). Clinical Hypertension (SAP ≥160 mmHg) using Doppler NIBP was recorded in 39 dogs, resulting in an overall prevalence of 18.22%. Secondary hypertension was more common (27.81%) compared to primary hypertension (2.46%), reinforcing the strong association between hypertension and concurrent diseases. Age-wise analysis revealed a higher prevalence in dogs over 8 years (30%), suggesting an age-related predisposition. Male dogs (76.92%) were more frequently affected than females (23.07%). Breed predisposition was observed, with Labrador Retrievers (33.3%) and German Shepherds (23.07%) showing the highest occurrence.