Species: Dog
Condition: Myxomatous Degeneration of the Mitral Valve
Organ System: Nervous/sensory
One of the most common causes of heart disease in dogs, it is a progressive destruction of the valves dividing the heart chambers. One-way blood flow is disrupted, impairing the normal heart function and the integrity of general circulation. Gradually, heart failure develops causing visible symptoms. The dogs are having breathing difficulties, especially during exercise; they are coughing, with elevated heart rate and blue gums. It is a very serious condition requiring veterinary help. The vet will perform a series of diagnostic procedures (ECG, X-ray, echocardiogram) to diagnose the condition. Therapy consists of drugs supporting the heart function.
Breeds exposed to Myxomatous Degeneration of the Mitral Valve – Research Reference
German Shepherd Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Golden Retriever Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Alsatian Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Dalmatian Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
British Bulldog Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Rottweiler Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Alaskan Malamute Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Tibetan Terrier Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Golden Doodle (Groodle) – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Alaskan Malamute – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
British Bulldog – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Dalmatian – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
German Shepherd – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Golden Retriever – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Rottweiler – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Tibetan Terrier – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Alsatian – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Disease Author
Dr Merliza Cabriles, Professor of Veterinary Medicine
To learn more about Myxomatous Degeneration of the Mitral Valve or any other condition we invite you to search this website. Even better, pick up the phone and call your vet. Your vet knows your pet better than anyone else and is a fountain of information.
This information is accurate as at May 2014 and is subject to change without notice.
For Petmed Pet Health Insurance – pre-existing condition exclusion applies. Annual Benefit Limits and excess amounts vary based on pet health insurance plans.
