Canine Systemic Hypertension – NAVLE Study Guide

Overview and Clinical Importance

Systemic hypertension refers to sustained elevations in systemic arterial blood pressure. In dogs, systolic blood pressure consistently greater than 140 mmHg or diastolic pressure greater than 90 mmHg is considered elevated. However, the ACVIM Consensus Guidelines recommend that treatment be initiated when systolic pressure persistently exceeds 160 mmHg, as this level is associated with moderate-to-high risk for target organ damage (TOD).

Unlike in cats where hypertension is commonly recognized, canine hypertension has historically been underdiagnosed. However, it is a clinically significant condition that can cause serious complications affecting the eyes, kidneys, heart, and brain. Understanding the diagnosis, underlying causes, and treatment of canine hypertension is essential for NAVLE success.

Blood Pressure Classification

The ACVIM Consensus Guidelines (2018) classify blood pressure based on the risk of developing target organ damage (TOD). Treatment decisions should consider both the blood pressure level and the presence or absence of TOD.