Home » Diseases » In dogs » Pulmonary Thromboembolism (Blockage of a Pulmonary Artery by a Blood Clot)

Pulmonary Thromboembolism (Blockage of a Pulmonary Artery by a Blood Clot) in Dogs

Occurrence: rarer
Location of illness: Chest

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 06.11.2025

PulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. thromboembolismThromboembolism is the blockage of a blood vessel by a blood clot (thrombus) that has formed in one place in the circulatory system and then moved to another location. This can lead to serious complications, such as a stroke or pulmonary embolism. in dogs is a condition in which a blood clot blocks one or more pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. arteries, which can lead to reduced oxygen supply and potentially life-threatening complications.

The most important facts at a glance

Pulmonary thromboembolism in dogs is a serious condition caused by a blood clot in the pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. arteries. These clots often form in the deep veins of the legs or pelvis and migrate to the lungs. The main causes include Cushing’s syndromeA syndrome is a group of symptoms that occur together and indicate a specific disease or condition. A syndrome can be caused by various factors and is often complex in its diagnosis and treatment., heart disease, cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas., infections, traumaA trauma refers to a physical injury or damage caused by external force. Traumas can range from simple cuts to severe multiple injuries., and certain medications. Symptoms are weakness, cough, respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress, and pale or bluish mucous membranes. The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is made by clinical examination, imaging procedures such as CT or MRI, and blood tests. Treatment focuses on stabilizing the dog, improving oxygen supply, and preventing new thrombi. AnticoagulantsAnticoagulants are medications that slow down or inhibit blood coagulation. They are used to prevent the formation of blood clots and are used in dogs and cats with certain heart conditions or coagulation disorders. such as Heparin and Warfarin are central, and in severe cases, oxygen therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. may be required. The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. depends on the blockage, the speed of diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment, and underlying diseases. PreventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. includes reducing risk factors, treating underlying diseases, and prophylactic measures in at-risk dogs. Research is investigating genetic predispositions, inflammatory processes, improved diagnostic techniques, and new medications. A balanced diet and a healthy weight can also help to minimize the risk. Scientists are working to improve the understanding and treatment options for this complex disease.

Causes

Pulmonary thromboembolism is a serious condition caused by the formation of a blood clot, also known as a thrombusA thrombus is a blood clot that forms within the circulatory system and adheres to the vessel wall. Thrombi can obstruct blood flow and lead to various health problems., in the blood vessels of the lung. These clots can develop in various parts of the body, but most often in the deep veins of the legs or pelvis, and then travel through the bloodstream to the lungs, where they block the arteries.

The formation of a thrombusA thrombus is a blood clot that forms within the circulatory system and adheres to the vessel wall. Thrombi can obstruct blood flow and lead to various health problems. is explained by a combination of three main factors, known as Virchow’s triad: changes in blood composition (hypercoagulability), changes in blood flow (stasis), and damage to the vessel wall. In dogs, these factors can be caused by various diseases or conditions.

The most common causes of increased blood clotting tendency in dogs include conditions such as Cushing’s syndromeA syndrome is a group of symptoms that occur together and indicate a specific disease or condition. A syndrome can be caused by various factors and is often complex in its diagnosis and treatment., heart disease, cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas., infections, trauma, and surgical procedures. Certain medications can also increase the risk of blood clots. Older dogs are at increased risk of developing thrombi due to degenerative diseases.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

The symptoms of pulmonary thromboembolismThromboembolism is the blockage of a blood vessel by a blood clot (thrombus) that has formed in one place in the circulatory system and then moved to another location. This can lead to serious complications, such as a stroke or pulmonary embolism. in dogs can vary and depend on the size and number of affected arteries. The most common symptoms include sudden respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress, an increased breathing rate, and a bluish discoloration of the mucous membranes, which indicates an inadequate oxygen supply.

Other possible symptoms include cough, weakness, collapse, or loss of consciousness, especially after physical exertion. In severe cases, cardiac arrhythmiaAn arrhythmia is a heart rhythm disorder in which the heart beats irregularly, either too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or with an irregular pattern. Arrhythmias can be harmless or a sign of serious heart problems. or cardiovascular collapse may occur. Because these symptoms are non-specific, a rapid and accurate diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is crucial for the dog’s survival.

Diagnosis

The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. thromboembolismThromboembolism is the blockage of a blood vessel by a blood clot (thrombus) that has formed in one place in the circulatory system and then moved to another location. This can lead to serious complications, such as a stroke or pulmonary embolism. in dogs requires a thorough clinical examination and usually the use of a combination of imaging procedures and laboratory tests. First, the veterinarian will take a detailed historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits. and assess the dog’s symptoms.

Chest X-rays can provide clues to changes in lung structure, but are often not sufficient to definitively diagnose pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. thromboembolismThromboembolism is the blockage of a blood vessel by a blood clot (thrombus) that has formed in one place in the circulatory system and then moved to another location. This can lead to serious complications, such as a stroke or pulmonary embolism.. A computed tomography (CT)Computed tomography (CT) is an imaging technique that uses X-rays and computer technology to create cross-sectional images of the body. It enables a detailed view of bones, organs, and other structures and is used for the diagnosis of injuries, diseases, and for planning medical interventions. or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)Magnetic resonance imaging is an imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of the body. It is used in veterinary medicine to diagnose diseases of the brain, spine, and other organs. of the chest can be helpful to directly visualize blood clots in the pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. arteries.

In addition, blood tests can be performed to assess the blood’s ability to clot and to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms. A heart ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. can help identify underlying heart diseases that can increase the risk of thromboembolismThromboembolism is the blockage of a blood vessel by a blood clot (thrombus) that has formed in one place in the circulatory system and then moved to another location. This can lead to serious complications, such as a stroke or pulmonary embolism..

Therapy

The treatment of pulmonary thromboembolism in dogs aims to reduce the blockage of the pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. arteries, improve oxygen supply, and prevent the formation of further blood clots. TherapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. usually begins with stabilizing the dog, especially in cases of severe respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress or circulatory problems.

AnticoagulantsAnticoagulants are medications that slow down or inhibit blood coagulation. They are used to prevent the formation of blood clots and are used in dogs and cats with certain heart conditions or coagulation disorders., medications that inhibit blood clotting, are the cornerstone of treatment. Heparin and Warfarin are commonly used medications that prevent the formation of new thrombi. In some cases, thrombolytics may be used to dissolve existing blood clots, but their use is limited due to side effects.

In addition to drug therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions., oxygen therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. may be necessary in severe cases to ensure the dog’s oxygen supply. SupportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. measures such as fluid therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. and rest can also be important to reduce the strain on the cardiovascular system.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis of pulmonary thromboembolism in dogs depends on various factors, including the extent of the blockage, the speed of diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and the start of treatment, and the presence of underlying diseases. With rapid and appropriate treatment, many dogs can have a good prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop., although the risk of relapse exists.

Long-term medications to prevent further thrombi may be necessary, especially in dogs with chronic or recurrentRecurrent refers to a disease that repeatedly returns or worsens after a temporary remission or improvement. conditions that increase the risk of blood clots. Regular monitoring by a veterinarian is crucial to adjust treatment and detect possible complications early.

Prevention

The preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. thromboembolismThromboembolism is the blockage of a blood vessel by a blood clot (thrombus) that has formed in one place in the circulatory system and then moved to another location. This can lead to serious complications, such as a stroke or pulmonary embolism. in dogs focuses on reducing risk factors and treating underlying diseases. Early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment of diseases such as Cushing’s syndromeA syndrome is a group of symptoms that occur together and indicate a specific disease or condition. A syndrome can be caused by various factors and is often complex in its diagnosis and treatment., heart disease, and cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. can reduce the risk of thrombosisThrombosis is the formation of a blood clot in a blood vessel that can obstruct or block blood flow. Thromboses can occur in veins (venous thrombosis) or arteries (arterial thrombosis)..

Avoiding risk factors, such as prolonged lack of exercise, can also be helpful. In dogs with a high risk of thromboembolismThromboembolism is the blockage of a blood vessel by a blood clot (thrombus) that has formed in one place in the circulatory system and then moved to another location. This can lead to serious complications, such as a stroke or pulmonary embolism., the veterinarian may consider prophylactic measures such as the administration of anticoagulantAn anticoagulant is a medication that inhibits blood coagulation, thus preventing the formation of blood clots. It is used for the treatment and prevention of thrombosis and embolism. medications.

Regular veterinary monitoring and adherence to recommended treatment plans are crucial to minimize the risk of complications and maintain the dog’s health. In addition, a balanced diet and a healthy weight should be ensured to support the cardiovascular system.

Outlook on current research

Pulmonary thromboembolism in dogs is a serious medical problem that is becoming increasingly important in veterinary medicine. Currently, there are several lines of research that deal with the diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients., treatment, and preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of this disease. A large part of the research focuses on identifying predisposing factors. Some studies are investigating genetic predispositions and the role of inflammatory processes in the development of blood clots in order to better define risk groups.

Another focus is on improving diagnostic procedures. In the past, the diagnosis of pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. thromboembolismThromboembolism is the blockage of a blood vessel by a blood clot (thrombus) that has formed in one place in the circulatory system and then moved to another location. This can lead to serious complications, such as a stroke or pulmonary embolism. in dogs was often difficult and uncertain. Modern imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT)Computed tomography (CT) is an imaging technique that uses X-rays and computer technology to create cross-sectional images of the body. It enables a detailed view of bones, organs, and other structures and is used for the diagnosis of injuries, diseases, and for planning medical interventions. and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)Magnetic resonance imaging is an imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of the body. It is used in veterinary medicine to diagnose diseases of the brain, spine, and other organs. are increasingly being researched to refine their application in the diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of this disease. These methods could enable faster and more accurate diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. in the future, which is crucial for timely treatment.

The research of treatment methods is also a central topic. Current studies are investigating new anticoagulantsAnticoagulants are medications that slow down or inhibit blood coagulation. They are used to prevent the formation of blood clots and are used in dogs and cats with certain heart conditions or coagulation disorders. and thrombolytics that are specifically developed for use in dogs. These medications could reduce the risk of complications and improve the survival rate. In parallel, alternative therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. approaches such as the use of dietary supplements and herbal remedies are being researched, which may have a supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. effect.

The preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. thromboembolismThromboembolism is the blockage of a blood vessel by a blood clot (thrombus) that has formed in one place in the circulatory system and then moved to another location. This can lead to serious complications, such as a stroke or pulmonary embolism. is also a focus of research. Scientists are investigating the possibility of reducing the risk of blood clot formation through targeted changes in diet and lifestyle. Studies on the role of omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients could be helpful in preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring.. This research could contribute to reducing the incidenceIncidence refers to the number of new cases of a disease or condition that occur within a specific time period in a specific population group. It provides information about the risk of contracting the disease. of this disease in dogs in the long term.

In summary, research on pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. thromboembolismThromboembolism is the blockage of a blood vessel by a blood clot (thrombus) that has formed in one place in the circulatory system and then moved to another location. This can lead to serious complications, such as a stroke or pulmonary embolism. in dogs is making progress in several areas. From genetic research to the improvement of diagnostic techniques to the development of new medications and preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. strategies, scientists worldwide are working to deepen the understanding of this complex disease and optimize treatment options.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is pulmonary thromboembolism in dogs? PulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. thromboembolismThromboembolism is the blockage of a blood vessel by a blood clot (thrombus) that has formed in one place in the circulatory system and then moved to another location. This can lead to serious complications, such as a stroke or pulmonary embolism. occurs when a blood clot blocks one or more arteries in the lung. This can lead to respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress and other serious health problems.

What symptoms does a dog with pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. thromboembolismThromboembolism is the blockage of a blood vessel by a blood clot (thrombus) that has formed in one place in the circulatory system and then moved to another location. This can lead to serious complications, such as a stroke or pulmonary embolism. show? Symptoms can be respiratory distress, cough, rapid breathing, weakness, collapse, or even sudden Death. These symptoms require immediate veterinary care.

Which dogs are most at risk of developing pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. thromboembolismThromboembolism is the blockage of a blood vessel by a blood clot (thrombus) that has formed in one place in the circulatory system and then moved to another location. This can lead to serious complications, such as a stroke or pulmonary embolism.? Dogs with certain pre-existing conditions such as heart disease, cancer, or inflammatory diseases have an increased risk. Older dogs are also more frequently affected.

How is pulmonary thromboembolismThromboembolism is the blockage of a blood vessel by a blood clot (thrombus) that has formed in one place in the circulatory system and then moved to another location. This can lead to serious complications, such as a stroke or pulmonary embolism. diagnosed in dogs? The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is usually made through a combination of clinical examinations, blood tests, and imaging procedures such as X-rays or CT scans.

What are the treatment options for pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. thromboembolismThromboembolism is the blockage of a blood vessel by a blood clot (thrombus) that has formed in one place in the circulatory system and then moved to another location. This can lead to serious complications, such as a stroke or pulmonary embolism. in dogs? Treatment may include the administration of oxygen, anticoagulantsAnticoagulants are medications that slow down or inhibit blood coagulation. They are used to prevent the formation of blood clots and are used in dogs and cats with certain heart conditions or coagulation disorders., pain relievers, and in some cases surgical interventions. The exact therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. depends on the severity of the disease.

Can pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. thromboembolismThromboembolism is the blockage of a blood vessel by a blood clot (thrombus) that has formed in one place in the circulatory system and then moved to another location. This can lead to serious complications, such as a stroke or pulmonary embolism. be prevented in dogs? While not all cases can be prevented, measures such as the management of underlying diseases, a balanced diet, and regular exercise can reduce the risk.

Are there complications that can occur after pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. thromboembolismThromboembolism is the blockage of a blood vessel by a blood clot (thrombus) that has formed in one place in the circulatory system and then moved to another location. This can lead to serious complications, such as a stroke or pulmonary embolism. in dogs? Yes, possible complications are Heart failure, pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. infarction, and chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress. Early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment can help to minimize these.

How long does it take for a dog to recover from pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. thromboembolismThromboembolism is the blockage of a blood vessel by a blood clot (thrombus) that has formed in one place in the circulatory system and then moved to another location. This can lead to serious complications, such as a stroke or pulmonary embolism.? The recovery time varies depending on the severity of the disease and the treatment, but can take weeks to months. Follow-up care by the veterinarian is crucial.

Are certain breeds more susceptible to pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. thromboembolismThromboembolism is the blockage of a blood vessel by a blood clot (thrombus) that has formed in one place in the circulatory system and then moved to another location. This can lead to serious complications, such as a stroke or pulmonary embolism.? While all dogs can be affected, there are no specific breeds that are significantly more susceptible. The risk depends more on individual health factors.

What should I do if I suspect symptoms of pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. thromboembolismThromboembolism is the blockage of a blood vessel by a blood clot (thrombus) that has formed in one place in the circulatory system and then moved to another location. This can lead to serious complications, such as a stroke or pulmonary embolism. in my dog? Seek veterinary help immediately. A rapid diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment are crucial to ensure the dog’s survival and recovery.