For Emergencies:
Karl, our Cardiologist, is one of the only vets in the North East accredited to carry out breed heart screening in dogs via Echocardiogram – offering expert care to help protect future generations. Karl sees many different heart conditions — some that dogs acquire as they age, and others they are born with (congenital). Acquired conditions can sometimes be caused by other diseases or infections, but many have a genetic component, just as most congenital heart diseases do.
When a disease has a genetic component, it can be passed on to future generations, perpetuating the problem. Naturally, we want puppies to grow up free from disease, with the best chance of living a long and healthy life. This is where breed screening comes in.
Our Cardiologist, Karl Bovenizer
What breeds and conditions are we looking for?
There are four main heart conditions we screen for, each with specific breeds more commonly affected.
1. Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease (MMVD)
In this condition, age-related changes cause thickening of the mitral valve, leading to leakage (regurgitation). In some dogs, this can progress to congestive heart failure. While many small breeds are susceptible, there is a formal breed screening program only for the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
2. Subaortic Stenosis (SAS)
Here, a narrowing just below the aortic valve reduces blood flow from the heart. Severity can range from mild to life-threatening, with severe cases leading to congestive heart failure or dangerous arrhythmias. Breeds most often affected include:
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Boxer
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Irish Wolfhound
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Newfoundland
3. Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
A serious condition in which the heart muscle loses its ability to contract effectively, leading to enlargement (dilation) of the heart chambers. DCM is often associated with arrhythmias, especially ventricular types, and can progress quickly without early diagnosis. Commonly affected breeds include:
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Doberman
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Deerhound
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German Wirehaired Pointer
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Great Dane
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Irish Wolfhound
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Newfoundland
4. Pulmonic Stenosis (PS)
A narrowing at or near the pulmonary valve, restricting blood flow from the right side of the heart to the lungs. Severity varies — mild cases may cause no symptoms, while moderate to severe cases can lead to weakness, collapse, or right-sided heart failure. Commonly seen in:
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Whippet
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Beagle
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French Bulldog
Why breed screening matters
Many breed societies are aware of these inherited heart problems and have introduced screening standards to encourage responsible breeding. This helps reduce the chances of passing these diseases on and lowers their incidence in the breed over time.
Screening may be as simple as listening to the heart with a stethoscope, or it may require a full echocardiogram (ultrasound scan) for a detailed assessment.
At Bridge Referrals, we are delighted to offer both screening methods — helping breeders, owners, and vets work together to protect the health of these wonderful dogs for generations to come.
