Your Dog’s Blood Pressure

Jun 5

High blood pressure (hypertension) in dogs can sneak up quietly but lead to serious health issues. Learn what causes it, how it's diagnosed, and simple, natural ways to support your dog’s cardiovascular system.

It’s easy to assume high blood pressure is just a human problem. But in dogs, it’s a growing concern — especially in seniors or dogs managing kidney, endocrine, or heart issues. The challenge? Most pet parents never see it coming.

What Is High Blood Pressure in Dogs?

Canine hypertension happens when the force of blood against the artery walls is consistently too high. Over time, this pressure can damage delicate tissues and organs — especially the:

Eyes (leading to sudden blindness)
Kidneys
Brain
Heart and blood vessels

There are two types:

Primary (idiopathic) — rare in dogs
Secondary — the most common, caused by an underlying condition like kidney disease, Cushing’s, diabetes, or hypothyroidism

How It's Diagnosed

Vets use a Doppler or oscillometric blood pressure monitor — similar to human cuffs, but adapted for dogs. Multiple readings may be needed over a few visits to rule out stress-induced spikes (white coat syndrome is real in dogs too).

Normal systolic range: around 110–160 mmHg
Elevated: 160–179 mmHg
Severe: 180+ mmHg — often where organ damage begins

If a dog is consistently above 160 mmHg and has clinical signs or an underlying disease, your vet will likely recommend a treatment plan.

See your veterinarian for an official diagnosis. Then you and I can collaborate on a wellness strategy to support your dog.

Why It Matters

Untreated high blood pressure can silently cause:

Retinal detachment or hemorrhage (sudden blindness)
Kidney failure or faster progression of existing kidney disease
Seizures or disorientation
Increased risk of heart enlargement or stroke-like episodes

It’s rarely the only issue — it’s a sign your dog’s body is asking for deeper support.

Common Veterinary Treatments

Veterinary treatment often focuses on:

Treating the root issue first (like managing kidney or endocrine conditions)
Blood pressure medications (e.g., ACE inhibitors or calcium channel blockers)
Regular monitoring with in-clinic or at-home blood pressure checks

These approaches may help stabilize numbers — but long-term wellness may need more.

Gentle Natural Support to Consider

Here’s where holistic care can shine — not as a replacement, but to support overall balance:

Nutrition & Hydration

Fresh, moisture-rich food helps reduce inflammatory burden
Low-sodium, low-carb diets may help with metabolic stress

Herbal Support

Herbs that support circulation, blood vessel integrity, and organ detoxification may be beneficial
Always consider what’s driving the pressure before selecting herbs

Essential Oils

Properly diffused oils that calm the nervous system can support cardiovascular regulation
Oils that support the heart or kidneys may offer added benefit, energetically and physically

Homeopathy

Constitutional or organ-specific remedies can be used in custom strategies based on your dog’s patterns

Movement & Mindfulness

Gentle, consistent walks improve circulation and reduce stress hormones
Enrichment activities reduce emotional stress that may contribute to hypertension

Top Things You Can Do Today

Swap processed kibble for a fresh, whole food diet
Support kidney, liver, and endocrine health through seasonal detox practices
Add antioxidant-rich foods like blueberries or leafy greens (if appropriate)
Consider gentle herbal circulatory support — under guidance
Diffuse calming essential oils to reduce sympathetic stress
Monitor behavior and eye changes that may suggest vision problems

👉 Want to know which herbs, oils, and homeopathic remedies I’ve seen work best for canine hypertension?
I’ve put together a deeper dive on this inside the Library — along with practical steps to support heart and kidney health naturally.
Download my Guide on High Blood Pressure in Dogs in the Library.

Statements in this blog have not been evaluated by the FDA. Educational content only. Not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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Keywords: high blood pressure in dogs, canine hypertension, dog blood pressure range, natural remedies for hypertension in dogs, holistic cardiovascular support, dog kidney and heart health, canine blood pressure causes

Dana Brigman