Asymptomatic Canine Degenerative Valve Disease

Degenerative valve disease (DVD) is the leading cause of heart disease and heart failure in the dog. The first consensus statement published in 2009 by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine was updated in 2019 and provides guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of DVD. These updated guidelines recommend treatment with pimobendan in stage B2 DVD characterized by sufficient left heart enlargement. Asymptomatic dogs with DVD that do not meet or exceed the definition of stage B2 are considered stage B1. No treatment is recommended in stage B1 DVD. This article discusses the relevant scientific background and practical application of the updated DVD guidelines related to stage B. In addition, management of common sequelae of DVD that can result in clinical signs unrelated to congestive heart failure will be reviewed. The impact of new evidence on current recommendations and a glimpse into novel diagnostic approaches and possible future therapies will also be addressed.