Thanks for the question.

In direct answer to your question : An ECG will help pinpoint the exact cause of your dog's heart disease and help him prescribe the medication which will be most efficient in controlling your dog's symptoms.

Thats all very well and good I guess but Bichons are not long lived breeds and to get one to the age of fifteen is like getting a person to the age of 95. So what you have to ask yourself is what would a person of 95 be like if they rushed up the stairs or got overexcited drugs or no drugs? The drugs will help and you should go for it but you will still have a very old dog on your hands.

Having said all that the good thing about having an ECG is that it will not cause your dog any discomfort and it can be done without an anesthetic so you have nothing to lose by giving it a try.

Here is a link to a very good web site covering ECG in the dog so you can research the subject a bit more : http://www.petplace.com/dogs/electrocardiogram-in-dogs/page1.aspx

If I can advise you further please get back in touch.

Scott Nimmo BVMS