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Patent ductus arteriosus

Congenital heart defect: a vessel that should close at birth remains open. It is one of the most common congenital defects. The prognosis is good if it is corrected early.

Severe🐕 Dogs

Symptoms to watch for

  • • Characteristic heart murmur, detected in puppies
  • • Slower growth than the rest of the litter
  • • Tiredness, exercise intolerance
  • • In untreated cases: signs of heart failure

Causes

Congenital defect: the ductus arteriosus, a foetal vessel, fails to close after birth. There is a breed predisposition (Poodle, Shetland Sheepdog and others).

Diagnosis

Auscultation of the characteristic murmur plus echocardiography.

Treatment

Closure of the ductus, either by catheterisation (minimally invasive) or surgery. If done early, the prognosis is excellent and the dog leads a normal life.

Prevention

Detection during puppy check-ups (always auscultate). Do not breed from affected animals.

When should you see the vet?

See the vet if a murmur is detected during a puppy check-up. Early closure of the ductus has a very good prognosis.

Consult a vet

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.

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