Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)
- DCM is a condition of the heart which causes swelling of the lower heart chambers (ventricles). This restricts the heart’s ability to pump blood and leads the heart to become large and beat weakly. Signs can include collapsing, appetite loss, lethargy, abdominal swelling, cough or gasping for breath. The signs may not show for years, but will be obvious eventually.
- Affected Breeds: Australian Shepherd, Chinese Crested Dog, Doberman, Estrela Mountain Dog, French Bulldog, Giant Schnauzer, Great Dane, Irish Wolfhound, Jack Russell Terrier, Parson Russell Terrier, Schnauzer, Xoloitzcuintle, Yorkshire Terrier
Rhodesian Ridgeback Inherited Ventricular Arrhythmia (IVA)
- This is a condition that results in abnormalities in the cardiac electrical system, which develops the heartbeat. It results in abnormal heartbeats, which can result in sudden death. It appears the most severe part of the disease is present between 6 and 30 months of age, and many dogs appear to outgrow the problem. The testing will determine if your dog is at risk of this condition. Dogs that present with the gene mutation should have a heart monitor test done routinely between 6 and 30 months to monitor the condition.
- Affected Breeds: Rhodesian Ridgeback
Juvenile Dilated Cardiomyopathy (JDCM)
- JDCM is a heart disease that affects young dogs. Affected dogs often appear healthy with no signs of heart disease, but will unexpectedly pass. The only physical signs that may occur are that affected young males may have undescended testicles (one or both). For many of the affected puppies, their passing can occur after having surgery, being under general anaesthesia, or exercising.
- Affected Breeds: Australian Shepherd, Chinese Crested Dog, Dobermann, English Toy Terrier, French Bulldog, Giant Schnauzer, Jack Russell Terrier, Manchester Terrier, Parson Russell Terrier, Portuguese Water Dog, Xoloitzcuintle, Yorkshire Terrier.
