Unlike many genetic disorders, MVD is primarily an age-related degenerative heart disease, although certain breeds show a strong hereditary predisposition. Because of this genetic influence, regular heart screening is important for early detection, monitoring progression, and supporting responsible breeding decisions.
The mitral valve normally ensures one-way blood flow through the heart. In dogs affected by MVD, the valve gradually deteriorates and loses its ability to close properly. As a result, blood leaks backward into the left atrium with each heartbeat. This inefficiency forces the heart to work harder, leading to enlargement of the heart chambers over time and eventual heart failure in advanced cases.
Clinical signs of MVD typically develop gradually and may not be noticeable in the early stages. The first indication is often a heart murmur, detected during a routine veterinary examination. As the disease progresses, dogs may develop coughing (especially at night or after activity), reduced exercise tolerance, rapid breathing, or fatigue.
In more advanced stages, fluid may accumulate in the lungs (pulmonary edema), leading to congestive heart failure. Affected dogs may show persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, weakness, and fainting episodes. Without treatment, the condition can become life-threatening.
The MVD Heart Screening Test typically involves a combination of auscultation and echocardiography (heart ultrasound). During auscultation, a veterinarian listens for abnormal heart sounds or murmurs using a stethoscope. Echocardiography provides a detailed image of the heart’s structure and function, allowing precise evaluation of valve thickness, blood flow direction, and chamber enlargement. In some cases, chest X-rays and electrocardiography (ECG) may also be used to assess heart size and rhythm.
Results are generally interpreted as:
- Normal: No evidence of valve degeneration or heart enlargement.
- Early/Stage B1: Mild valve changes or murmur present, but no heart enlargement.
- Progressive/Stage B2: Significant valve disease with enlargement of the heart chambers.
- Advanced/Stage C–D: Congestive heart failure with clinical symptoms such as coughing and breathing difficulty.
Heart screening for MVD is extremely important for breeders, veterinarians, and dog owners. For breeders, regular cardiac evaluation helps reduce the prevalence of early-onset or severe MVD in breeding lines and supports healthier long-term genetic selection. For dogs used in breeding programs, annual heart screening is often recommended, especially in predisposed breeds.
For dog owners, early detection allows timely medical intervention that can significantly slow disease progression. While MVD cannot be cured, medications such as pimobendan, diuretics, and ACE inhibitors can help manage symptoms, improve heart function, and extend quality of life. Regular monitoring ensures that treatment can be adjusted as the disease progresses.
The Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) Heart Screening Test is a vital diagnostic tool that supports early detection of heart disease, improves clinical management, and promotes better cardiac health and longevity in dogs.
