Heart disease affects 10% of all dogs.  Chronic valvular heart disease (CVHD) is the most common heart problem for dogs, and it most commonly effects older, small breed dogs.  CVHD can also effect large breed dogs.  Additionally, some large breed dogs develop disease of the heart muscle (ex. Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)).  Some puppies are born with structural defects of the heart or surrounding vessels.  These congenital defects may be repairable or may cause long term heart problems.  The most common congenital defect in dogs is a Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA).  When detected early, repair of this defect can often result in the puppy living a normal lifespan.  Having a board-certified veterinary cardiologist as part of the care team for your pet with heart disease helps to assure the best prognosis and quaility of life for your best friend.