Question 1

What causes mitral valve disease in dogs?

Accepted Answer

Mitral valve disease is caused by the gradual degeneration and thickening of the heart's mitral valve, which prevents it from closing tightly and allows blood to leak backward. This condition is primarily a genetic and age-related process rather than being caused by diet or lifestyle choices. It is the most common heart issue in older dogs, especially small breeds.

Question 2

What are the first signs of mitral valve disease in dogs?

Accepted Answer

The first sign of mitral valve disease is usually a heart murmur that your vet detects during a routine checkup, often before your dog shows any outward symptoms. As the disease progresses, you might notice a persistent dry cough, rapid breathing, reduced energy levels, or fainting. If your dog shows any of these signs, it is important to schedule a veterinary exam right away.

Question 3

How do you treat a dog with mitral valve disease?

Accepted Answer

Treatment for mitral valve disease focuses on managing symptoms and slowing the progression of heart failure using daily medications. Your vet will likely prescribe drugs like pimobendan to help the heart pump more effectively, along with diuretics to clear fluid buildup in the lungs. While surgical valve repair is a potential cure, it is extremely expensive and only performed at a few specialized veterinary centers worldwide.

Question 4

Can I prevent my dog from getting mitral valve disease?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, you cannot prevent mitral valve disease because it is primarily a genetic and age-related condition. However, you can support your dog's overall heart health by keeping them at a healthy weight, feeding a high-quality diet, and maintaining good dental hygiene. Regular veterinary checkups are the best way to catch the disease early and start monitoring it before severe symptoms develop.

Question 5

How long can a dog live with mitral valve disease?

Accepted Answer

Many dogs can live for several years with a good quality of life after being diagnosed with early-stage mitral valve disease. Once the condition progresses to congestive heart failure, the average survival time is typically 6 to 18 months with proper medical management. The ongoing cost of medications and regular heart monitoring can range from $1,000 to $2,500 annually.

Question 6

What dog breeds are most prone to mitral valve disease?

Accepted Answer

Small to medium-sized dog breeds are most prone to mitral valve disease, with Cavalier King Charles Spaniels being at the highest risk and often developing it at a younger age. Other commonly affected breeds include Dachshunds, Poodles, Chihuahuas, and Miniature Schnauzers. If you own one of these breeds, your vet will pay extra attention to their heart during annual exams.

Breed	Species	Size
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel	Dog	Small
Whippet	Dog	Medium

Mitral Valve Disease

Symptoms & Signs

Causes & Risk Factors

Diagnosis

Treatment

Prevention

Prognosis

Affected Breeds (2)

Related Conditions