Mitral valve disease in dogs, or mitral valve disease dog, is a leading cause of heart trouble in canines, especially as they age. If you’re here, you’re likely concerned about how this condition can affect your dog’s health and wellbeing. This article provides an essential guide on what causes mitral valve disease dog, the breeds it most commonly impacts, and the signs that suggest your dog might be suffering from it. Expect to gain insights into diagnostic measures, treatment options, and crucial home management strategies to help your furry friend lead a comfortable life dog trainers houston tx.
Understanding Mitral Valve Disease in Dogs
Mitral valve disease, also known as chronic degenerative valve disease or myxomatous mitral valve disease, occurs when degenerative changes to the heart valves lead to mitral regurgitation. This degeneration causes the mitral valve to thicken and become floppy, preventing it from closing tightly and allowing blood to leak backwards. This disease is the most common heart condition in dogs, representing approximately 75% of heart disease cases and putting them at risk of developing heart disease. It most commonly affects small to medium-sized dogs and is particularly prevalent in dogs over the age of 10.
The causes of these degenerative changes are uncertain, but a genetic component is suspected, particularly in certain breeds. The preclinical course of degenerative mitral valve disease can span many years before overt symptoms develop. Comprehending the causes, risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options of MVD is instrumental in its early detection and effective management.
Causes and Risk Factors
Mitral valve disease in dogs is often a result of a degenerative process associated with aging where the valve experiences degenerative changes, including thickening and becoming less structurally sound. These changes can impair the structural integrity needed for proper valve function, which can prevent the valve from closing correctly, causing mitral valve insufficiency.
Moreover, there is an inherited genetic component to mitral valve disease that is suspected in some breeds, indicating a possible predisposition in these dogs. Other potential factors that could contribute to the risk of developing mitral valve disease in dogs include unidentified causes not associated with known genetic predispositions.
Recognizing these causes and risk factors can facilitate the early detection and management of MVD.
Affected Breeds
Certain breeds such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have a heightened prevalence of myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD), indicating a genetic influence. These breeds are notably predisposed to developing MMVD at a relatively young age. Other breeds predisposed to mitral valve disease include:
Chihuahua
Fox terrier
Cocker spaniel
Miniature schnauzer
Miniature and toy poodles
Pomeranian
Pekingese
Yorkie
Dachshund
Generally, small breed dogs, or toy breeds with average adult weights under 9 kg, represent most dogs at elevated risk for developing MMVD. This prevalence of MVD in specific breeds underscores the suspected genetic component of the disease, further emphasizing the importance of regular veterinary check-ups and health monitoring in these breeds.