Clinical Epidemiology of congenital heart diseases in dogs: prevalence, popularity and volatility throughout twenty years of clinical practice

Abstract The epidemiology of Congenital Heart Diseases (CHDs) has changed over the past twenty years. Evaluate the prevalence of CHDs in the population of dogs recruited in a single RC (referral center); compare the epidemiological features of CHDs in not screened (French and English Bulldogs and German Shepherds) and screened (Boxers) dogs; determine the association of breeds with the prevalence of CHDs; determine the popularity and volatility of breeds; and analyze the trends of the most popular breeds in the overall population of puppies registered in the Italian Kennel Club from 1st January 1997 to 31st December 2017. A total of 1,779 clinical records fulfilled the inclusion criteria Retrospective observational study. The relationship between the breed popularity, volatility and the presence of CHD was studied. The most common CHDs were PS (pulmonic stenosis), PDA (patent ductus arteriosus), SAS (subaortic stenosis) and VSD (ventricular septal defect). The most represented purebreds were Boxer, German Shepherd, French Bulldog, English Bulldog. Chihuahuas, American Staffordshire Terriers, Border Collies, French Bulldogs, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel showed a high value of volatility. Evident is the value of the screening program implemented in Boxers. Fashions and trends influence dog owners’ choices more than the health problems frequently found in a breed. An effective breeding program is needed to control the diffusion of CHDs without impoverishing the genetic pool; dog owners should be educated, and the breeders supported by a network of veterinary cardiology center.