Heart disease
Also known as: Cardiac disease · Kardiopathie · Cardiovascular disease · Herzerkrankung beim Hund · Herzerkrankung · …
Overview
What it is
Heart disease refers to structural or functional abnormalities of the heart muscle, valves, or electrical system that impair its ability to pump blood effectively. This reduced pumping efficiency prevents the cardiovascular system from delivering adequate oxygen and nutrients to the body's tissues. Some forms are congenital, meaning present from birth, while others are acquired over time due to wear or genetic factors.
How it presents
Owners may notice their dog tiring quickly during exercise, coughing, having difficulty breathing, or experiencing fainting spells. Congenital defects are usually detected in puppies, while acquired conditions typically develop in middle-aged to older dogs.
Treatment
While these conditions are generally incurable, they can be managed with lifelong medication and regular monitoring via echocardiography. Lifetime management and diagnostic costs typically range from €1,500 to €8,000.
How it's tested
Herzultraschall (Echokardiographie)(Herz-Echo)
Primary testCardiac examEchokardiographie zur Beurteilung von Herzklappen, -wänden, -funktion. Pflicht z.B. bei Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (MMVD).
Issuing body: vet
Result scheme: Cardiac-OFA
Affected breeds
24 of 39 breeds
Mandatory testAfghan Hound
Mandatory testAlaskan Klee Kai
Mandatory testAmerican Staffordshire Terrier
Mandatory testBelgian LaekenoisMandated by Deutscher Klub für Belgische Schäferhunde e.V.
Mandatory testBelgian MalinoisMandated by Deutscher Klub für Belgische Schäferhunde e.V. (DKBS)
Mandatory testBelgian Shepherd DogMandated by Deutscher Klub für Belgische Schäferhunde e.V.
Mandatory testBelgian TervurenMandated by Deutscher Klub für Belgische Schäferhunde e.V.
Mandatory testCavalier King Charles Spaniel
Mandatory testCavapoo
Mandatory testFox TerrierMandated by American Fox Terrier Club (AFTC)
Mandatory testGroenendaelMandated by Deutscher Klub für Belgische Schäferhunde e.V. (DKBS)
Mandatory testIrish WolfhoundMandated by Irish Wolfhound Club e.V.
Mandatory testMajorca Shepherd DogMandated by Verband für das Deutsche Hundewesen (VDH)
Mandatory testMiniature Bull Terrier
Mandatory testNewfoundland
Mandatory testPolish Lowland Sheepdog
Mandatory testSaluki
Mandatory testSchwarzer Russischer TerrierMandated by Black Russian Terrier Club of America (AKC / OFA CHIC)
Mandatory testSilken Windhound
Mandatory testSilken Windsprite
Mandatory testSlovakian Wild Boar DogMandated by Schwarzwildbrackenverein (Slovensky Kopov) e.V.
Mandatory testSlovensky KopovMandated by Schwarzwildbrackenverein (Slovensky Kopov) e.V.
Mandatory testStaffordshire Bull TerrierMandated by Deutscher Club für Bullterrier e.V.
Mandatory testWorking KelpieMandated by Australian Kelpie Club Deutschland e.V.
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment costs. Actual costs depend on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked questions
What is Heart disease?
Heart disease refers to structural or functional abnormalities of the heart muscle, valves, or electrical system that impair its ability to pump blood effectively. This reduced pumping efficiency prevents the cardiovascular system from delivering adequate oxygen and nutrients to the body's tissues. Some forms are congenital, meaning present from birth, while others are acquired over time due to wear or genetic factors.
How is Heart disease tested?
Tests currently in our database: Herzultraschall (Echokardiographie).
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Afghan Hound, Alaskan Klee Kai, American Staffordshire Terrier, Belgian Laekenois, Belgian Malinois, Belgian Shepherd Dog, Belgian Tervuren, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.