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Pulmonic Stenosis (Congenital Malformation of the Heart Affecting the Pulmonary Valve) in Dogs

Occurrence: very rare
Location of illness: Chest

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 06.11.2025

Pulmonic stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways. is a congenitalCongenital means "present from birth" and refers to characteristics or conditions that are already present at birth. This can include genetic disorders, developmental anomalies, or infections transmitted by the mother. heart defect in dogs in which the pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. valve, which regulates blood flow from the right ventricleA ventricle is one of the two lower chambers of the heart that pump blood into the arteries. The right ventricle pumps blood to the lungs, while the left ventricle pumps blood throughout the body. to the lungs, is narrowed. This narrowing makes blood flow difficult and leads to an overload of the heart.

The most important facts at a glance

Pulmonic stenosis is a congenital heart disease in dogs that affects the pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. valve and obstructs blood flow from the heart into the pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. arteryAn artery is a blood vessel that carries blood away from the heart. Unlike veins, which return deoxygenated blood to the heart, arteries transport oxygen-rich blood to the body's tissues.. This narrowing leads to increased pressure in the right ventricleA ventricle is one of the two lower chambers of the heart that pump blood into the arteries. The right ventricle pumps blood to the lungs, while the left ventricle pumps blood throughout the body., as the heart has to work harder. The causes are mostly genetic, with certain dog breeds such as Bulldogs, Beagles, and Boxers being more frequently affected. Symptoms can include respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress, reduced exercise tolerance, and fluid accumulation in the abdomenThe abdomen, also known as the abdominal cavity, is the part of the body located between the rib cage and the pelvis. It houses several important organs, including the stomach, liver, kidneys, intestines, and spleen.. DiagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is made by physical examination, ECG, X-rayX-ray is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to create images of the inside of the body. It is often used to diagnose bone fractures, lung diseases, and other conditions., and echocardiographyEchocardiography is an ultrasound examination of the heart that assesses the structure and function of the heart valves and chambers. It can provide information about heart size, pumping function, and the presence of heart disease., with the latter being considered the gold standard.

Treatment depends on the severity of the disease. In mild cases, regular monitoring may be sufficient, while more severe cases may require balloon valvuloplastyBalloon valvuloplasty is a medical procedure in which a narrowed heart valve is widened using a catheter equipped with a balloon at its end. The balloon is inserted into the narrowed valve and then inflated to open the narrowing. or surgical interventions. Medications to treat heart failure or cardiac arrhythmiaAn arrhythmia is a heart rhythm disorder in which the heart beats irregularly, either too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or with an irregular pattern. Arrhythmias can be harmless or a sign of serious heart problems. can also be used. The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. varies depending on the severity and treatment, with early treated cases often achieving a good quality of life. PreventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. focuses on responsible breeding practice to minimize genetic predispositions.

Research aims to identify genetic markers and improve minimally invasiveInvasive describes medical procedures or pathogens that enter the body or penetrate tissue. In medicine, invasive procedures can range from minimally invasive techniques to open surgery. treatment techniques. Advances in diagnostic methods such as echocardiographyEchocardiography is an ultrasound examination of the heart that assesses the structure and function of the heart valves and chambers. It can provide information about heart size, pumping function, and the presence of heart disease. and MRI could enable earlier and more precise diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients.. Personalized treatment approaches based on individual genetic characteristics could optimize management strategies in the future.

Causes

The pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. valve consists of three thin tissue flaps that open to allow blood to flow from the heart into the pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. arteryAn artery is a blood vessel that carries blood away from the heart. Unlike veins, which return deoxygenated blood to the heart, arteries transport oxygen-rich blood to the body's tissues. and close to prevent backflow. In pulmonic stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways., this valve structure is narrowed or deformed, which obstructs blood flow. This leads to increased pressure in the right ventricleA ventricle is one of the two lower chambers of the heart that pump blood into the arteries. The right ventricle pumps blood to the lungs, while the left ventricle pumps blood throughout the body., as the heart has to work harder to pump blood through the narrowed valve.

The narrowing can occur in various ways: The valve leaflets themselves may be thickened or fused (valvular stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways.), the tissue above (supravalvular stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways.) or below (subvalvular stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways.) the valve may be narrowed. These different forms can influence the severity of the disease and vary depending on the breed and individual development of the dog.

The causes of pulmonic stenosis are mainly genetic. Certain dog breeds such as Bulldogs, Beagles, and Boxers are more frequently affected due to genetic predispositions. The exact genetic cause can vary from breed to breed. Environmental factors do not appear to play a significant role in the development of this disease.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

The symptoms of pulmonic stenosis can range from mild to severe, depending on the degree of narrowing. In mild cases, there may be no obvious symptoms, while severe cases can lead to significant health problems.

The most common symptoms include respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress, especially after physical exertion, lethargy, weakness, and fainting spells. Dogs with pulmonic stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways. may also suffer from a reduced growth rate and have a bluish discoloration of the mucous membranes due to lack of oxygen.

In severe cases, heart murmurs may occur, which are noticeable during a physical examination. These heart murmurs are caused by the turbulent flow of blood through the narrowed valve. Heart failure can also occur, which can manifest as a bloated abdomenThe abdomen, also known as the abdominal cavity, is the part of the body located between the rib cage and the pelvis. It houses several important organs, including the stomach, liver, kidneys, intestines, and spleen., cough, and respiratory distress.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis usually begins with a thorough physical examination, during which the veterinarian listens for heart murmurs. A heart murmur can be an indicator of the anomalyAn anomaly is a deviation from what is considered normal or expected. In medicine, it often refers to unusual physical or genetic characteristics that may be present at birth or develop later. of the pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. valve. However, further diagnostic tests are required to confirm the diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients..

An electrocardiogramSee ECG. (ECG) can help detect cardiac arrhythmiaAn arrhythmia is a heart rhythm disorder in which the heart beats irregularly, either too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or with an irregular pattern. Arrhythmias can be harmless or a sign of serious heart problems. or signs of heart strain. A chest X-rayX-ray is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to create images of the inside of the body. It is often used to diagnose bone fractures, lung diseases, and other conditions. can show enlarged heart structures or abnormal blood vessels. However, the gold standard for the diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of pulmonic stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways. is echocardiographyEchocardiography is an ultrasound examination of the heart that assesses the structure and function of the heart valves and chambers. It can provide information about heart size, pumping function, and the presence of heart disease. (cardiac ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow.), which allows a detailed assessment of heart structure and function and determines the degree of stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways..

In some cases, cardiac catheterization may be performed to measure the pressure difference before and after the pulmonary valve. This can help to assess the severity of the disease more accurately and to determine the best treatment option.

Therapy

The treatment of pulmonic stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways. depends on the severity of the disease. In mild cases that do not cause symptoms, regular monitoring may be sufficient. Dogs with mild stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways. often live a normal life without therapeutic intervention.

In more severe cases, interventionalInterventional describes medical procedures that are invasive to make diagnoses or treat diseases. Interventional techniques in veterinary medicine include surgeries, catheter procedures, and image-guided therapies. treatment may be necessary. One of the most common procedures is balloon valvuloplastyBalloon valvuloplasty is a medical procedure in which a narrowed heart valve is widened using a catheter equipped with a balloon at its end. The balloon is inserted into the narrowed valve and then inflated to open the narrowing., a minimally invasiveInvasive describes medical procedures or pathogens that enter the body or penetrate tissue. In medicine, invasive procedures can range from minimally invasive techniques to open surgery. procedure in which a balloon catheter is inserted into the narrowed valve and inflated to widen the narrowing. This procedure can improve blood flow and reduce the strain on the heart.

In very severe cases where balloon valvuloplastyBalloon valvuloplasty is a medical procedure in which a narrowed heart valve is widened using a catheter equipped with a balloon at its end. The balloon is inserted into the narrowed valve and then inflated to open the narrowing. is not successful, surgical repair or replacement of the pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. valve may be considered. Medications to treat heart failure or to control cardiac arrhythmiaAn arrhythmia is a heart rhythm disorder in which the heart beats irregularly, either too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or with an irregular pattern. Arrhythmias can be harmless or a sign of serious heart problems. can also be part of the treatment plan.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for dogs with pulmonic stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways. varies depending on the severity of the disease and the chosen treatment. Dogs with mild forms of stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways. often have a good prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. and can lead a normal life without limitations.

In dogs with moderate to severe stenosis who are successfully treated, the quality of life can improve significantly, with the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. generally being good if the condition is detected and treated early. However, untreated severe cases can lead to significant health problems and a shortened lifespan.

Regular follow-up examinations are important to monitor the condition of the heart and to detect any changes early. This allows timely adjustment of treatment to ensure the best possible quality of life.

Prevention

Since pulmonic stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways. is mainly genetic, the focus of preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. is on responsible breeding practices. Breeders should strive to exclude dogs with a known genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. to heart defects from breeding.

Genetic tests and cardiological examinations of breeding animals can help to detect the predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. to pulmonic stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways. in advance. Education about the genetic risks and the promotion of screening programs are important steps to reduce the occurrence of this disease in future generations.

For dog owners, it is important to have regular veterinary examinations to detect possible heart diseases early. Early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. can significantly improve treatment outcomes and increase the quality of life of the affected dog.

Outlook on current research

Pulmonic stenosis is one of the most common congenitalCongenital means "present from birth" and refers to characteristics or conditions that are already present at birth. This can include genetic disorders, developmental anomalies, or infections transmitted by the mother. heart defects in dogs and mainly affects the pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. valve, which regulates blood flow from the right ventricleA ventricle is one of the two lower chambers of the heart that pump blood into the arteries. The right ventricle pumps blood to the lungs, while the left ventricle pumps blood throughout the body. into the pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. arteryAn artery is a blood vessel that carries blood away from the heart. Unlike veins, which return deoxygenated blood to the heart, arteries transport oxygen-rich blood to the body's tissues.. Despite the frequency of this disease, there is still much to explore, especially regarding the genetic basis that leads to this anomalyAn anomaly is a deviation from what is considered normal or expected. In medicine, it often refers to unusual physical or genetic characteristics that may be present at birth or develop later.. Current research focuses on identifying specific genetic markers that are associated with an increased susceptibility to pulmonic stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways.. These findings could help improve breeding programs in the long term and minimize the risk of this disease in future generations.

Another area of research includes the development and improvement of minimally invasive surgical techniques for the treatment of pulmonic stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways.. Currently, balloon valvuloplastyBalloon valvuloplasty is a medical procedure in which a narrowed heart valve is widened using a catheter equipped with a balloon at its end. The balloon is inserted into the narrowed valve and then inflated to open the narrowing. is one of the most commonly used methods for treatment, but scientists are working on new techniques that could improve both the success rate and the recovery time of the animals. Experiments with novel balloon catheters and stent-based procedures show promising results in early clinical trials.

In addition, intensive research is being conducted to improve non-invasive diagnostic methods. Advances in echocardiographyEchocardiography is an ultrasound examination of the heart that assesses the structure and function of the heart valves and chambers. It can provide information about heart size, pumping function, and the presence of heart disease. and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)Magnetic resonance imaging is an imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of the body. It is used in veterinary medicine to diagnose diseases of the brain, spine, and other organs. offer the possibility of diagnosing pulmonic stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways. earlier and more precisely. This could enable timely intervention and improve long-term outcomes for affected dogs.

Another significant area of research is the investigation of the long-term effects of pulmonic stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways. on the quality of life and life expectancy of dogs. Longitudinal studies that monitor the progressionProgression refers to the advancement or worsening of a disease over time. It describes an increase in the severity or extent of the disease symptoms. of the disease and the effectiveness of various treatment approaches contribute to developing better management strategies. The goal is to maximize the quality of life of the affected animals and to extend their life expectancy.

Overall, research in this area shows a growing interest in personalized treatment approaches based on the individual genetic and physiological characteristics of each dog. These personalized approaches could lead to tailored treatment plans in the future that offer the best results for patients with pulmonic stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways..

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is pulmonic stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways. in dogs? Pulmonic stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways. is a congenitalCongenital means "present from birth" and refers to characteristics or conditions that are already present at birth. This can include genetic disorders, developmental anomalies, or infections transmitted by the mother. heart disease in which the pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. valve is narrowed, which obstructs blood flow from the heart into the pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. arteryAn artery is a blood vessel that carries blood away from the heart. Unlike veins, which return deoxygenated blood to the heart, arteries transport oxygen-rich blood to the body's tissues.. This narrowing can lead to strain on the heart and impair heart function.
What symptoms occur in dogs with pulmonic stenosis? Common symptoms are respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress, lethargy, reduced exercise tolerance, and in more severe cases, fainting spells. However, some dogs may be asymptomatic, especially with milder forms of the disease.
How is pulmonic stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways. diagnosed? The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is usually made through a combination of physical examination, X-rays, echocardiographyEchocardiography is an ultrasound examination of the heart that assesses the structure and function of the heart valves and chambers. It can provide information about heart size, pumping function, and the presence of heart disease., and ECG. These tests help to assess the narrowing of the pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. valve and the effects on the heart.
What treatment options are available for pulmonic stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways.? Treatment depends on the severity of the disease. In mild cases, close monitoring may be sufficient, while more severe cases may require balloon valvuloplastyBalloon valvuloplasty is a medical procedure in which a narrowed heart valve is widened using a catheter equipped with a balloon at its end. The balloon is inserted into the narrowed valve and then inflated to open the narrowing. or surgical interventions.
Is pulmonic stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways. more common in certain dog breeds? Yes, certain breeds such as Bulldogs, Beagles, and Boxers are more commonly affected. The disease has a genetic component, so it is more common in some breeds.
Can dogs with pulmonic stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways. lead a normal life? Many dogs with mild pulmonic stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways. live a relatively normal life with minimal limitations. However, in severe cases, life expectancy may be shortened, and quality of life may be impaired without appropriate treatment.
Is pulmonic stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways. hereditary? Yes, pulmonic stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways. has a genetic component and may occur more frequently in offspring of affected dogs. Therefore, it is important not to use affected dogs for breeding.
Are there preventive measures against pulmonic stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways.? The main preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. is to promote responsible breeding practices and to perform genetic tests on dogs intended for breeding. This can help to reduce the risk of spreading the disease.
How often should a dog with pulmonic stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways. be monitored by a veterinarian? The frequency of monitoring depends on the severity of the disease. Regular veterinary check-ups are usually necessary to monitor heart function and to detect any progress of the disease early.
Are there alternative therapies for dogs with pulmonic stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways.? Some pet owners consider alternative therapies such as acupuncture or homeopathy in addition to conventional treatments. However, it is important to always pursue such approaches in consultation with an experienced veterinarian to ensure that they are safe and effective.