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Tricuspid valve insufficiency (Congenital heart malformation affecting the tricuspid valve) in Dogs

Synonyms: Tricuspid valve dysplasia, tricuspid valve dysfunction, tricuspid insufficiency

Occurrence: very rare
Location of disease: Chest

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 17.02.2026

When to visit the vet?

Non-urgent see a veterinarian within 2–3 days

If the condition worsens / symptoms persist, consult a veterinarian.

Definition

Tricuspid valve insufficiencyInsufficiency refers to the inadequate function or performance of an organ or system. This can include, for example, heart failure, kidney failure, or venous insufficiency. in dogs 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 where the tricuspid valve, located between the right atriumThe atrium (plural: atria) is one of the two upper chambers in the heart that receive blood from the body (right atrium) or from the lungs (left atrium). and 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., does not close properly. This leads to a backflow of blood into the right atriumThe atrium (plural: atria) is one of the two upper chambers in the heart that receive blood from the body (right atrium) or from the lungs (left atrium). and can cause various health problems.

The most important facts at a glance

Tricuspid valve insufficiency in dogs is a heart disease in which the tricuspid valve, which regulates blood flow between the right atriumThe atrium (plural: atria) is one of the two upper chambers in the heart that receive blood from the body (right atrium) or from the lungs (left atrium). and 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., does not close completely. This leads to a backflow of blood into the atriumThe atrium (plural: atria) is one of the two upper chambers in the heart that receive blood from the body (right atrium) or from the lungs (left atrium).. This condition can be 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., often caused by genetic factors or environmental conditions during pregnancy. DysplasiaDysplasia is an abnormal development or growth of cells, tissues, or organs. It can be a precursor to cancer, but does not necessarily lead to cancer. Dysplasia can occur in various parts of the body, including the cervix and hip. of the valve is a common cause, where the valve leaflets or associated structures are malformed. Symptoms range from irregular heartbeat and Lethargy to fluid accumulation and shortness of breath. 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 through physical examinations, 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 further tests such as ECG and X-rays. TherapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. varies depending on the severity and can range from monitoring and medical treatment to surgical interventions, although the latter are rare. An adapted diet and exercise can support heart health. 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. depends on the severity of the disease, with mild cases often allowing a normal quality of life. Careful breeding practices are crucial for preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring.. Research focuses on genetic causes, advanced diagnostic techniques, and new therapeutic approaches, including regenerative medicine, to develop better treatment and preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. options.

Causes

The tricuspid valve consists of three leaflets that open and close to regulate blood flow from the right atriumThe atrium (plural: atria) is one of the two upper chambers in the heart that receive blood from the body (right atrium) or from the lungs (left atrium). to 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.. In cases of insufficiencyInsufficiency refers to the inadequate function or performance of an organ or system. This can include, for example, heart failure, kidney failure, or venous insufficiency. of this valve, it does not close completely, leading to an unnatural backflow of blood, known as regurgitationRegurgitation is the reflux of food or liquid from the stomach into the mouth without Vomiting or strong abdominal muscle contractions. It may be a sign of diseases of the esophagus or other gastrointestinal problems..

This condition can be 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., meaning it is present from birth. 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 can be genetically determined or influenced by environmental factors during the mother dog’s pregnancy. Some breeds may be more susceptible to such heart problems, which can indicate genetic predispositions.

The causes of tricuspid valve insufficiencyInsufficiency refers to the inadequate function or performance of an organ or system. This can include, for example, heart failure, kidney failure, or venous insufficiency. can vary. A common cause in dogs is tricuspid valve dysplasiaDysplasia is an abnormal development or growth of cells, tissues, or organs. It can be a precursor to cancer, but does not necessarily lead to cancer. Dysplasia can occur in various parts of the body, including the cervix and hip., a malformation of the valve leaflets, chordae tendineae, or papillary muscles. This malformation prevents the valve from closing properly. Other causes can include inflammatory processes, traumatic injuries, or as a result of other heart diseases.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

The symptoms of tricuspid valve insufficiencyInsufficiency refers to the inadequate function or performance of an organ or system. This can include, for example, heart failure, kidney failure, or venous insufficiency. can vary depending on the severity of the disease. In mild cases, dogs may show no obvious symptoms, and the disease can remain undetected for a long time. In more severe cases, however, symptoms indicating heart failure may appear.

Common symptoms include Lethargy, reduced exercise tolerance, and shortness of breath, especially during exertion. Some dogs also show Cough, which can be caused by fluid accumulation in the lungs. AscitesAscites refers to the accumulation of free fluid in the abdominal cavity, which can lead to visible abdominal distension. It can be caused by various diseases, including liver disease, cancer, or heart failure., a fluid accumulation in the abdominalThe term “abdominal” refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. cavity, can also occur and lead to a swollen 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..

In severe cases, cyanosisCyanosis refers to a bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes, caused by an inadequate oxygen supply to the blood. It can be a sign of heart, lung, or blood diseases. may occur, a bluish discoloration of the mucous membranes, indicating a lack of oxygen in the blood. Weight loss and loss of appetite may also be observed.

Diagnosis

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 tricuspid valve insufficiencyInsufficiency refers to the inadequate function or performance of an organ or system. This can include, for example, heart failure, kidney failure, or venous insufficiency. usually begins with a thorough physical examination and a medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits., during which the veterinarian asks about the dog’s symptoms and medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits.. A heart murmur detected during auscultationAuscultation is an examination method in which the doctor uses a stethoscope to listen to the sounds in the body, especially in the heart, lungs, and intestines, in order to obtain information about the state of health. can raise suspicion of valve disease.

Imaging techniques are used 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. and assess the severity of the disease. 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. (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. of the heart) is the preferred diagnostic tool, as it allows detailed visualization of heart anatomyAnatomy is the scientific study of the structure of living things. It deals with the construction and organization of organisms, including their systems, organs, and tissues. and valve function. With this procedure, the veterinarian can assess valve movement, heart chamber size, and the extent of regurgitationRegurgitation is the reflux of food or liquid from the stomach into the mouth without Vomiting or strong abdominal muscle contractions. It may be a sign of diseases of the esophagus or other gastrointestinal problems..

Additional diagnostic tests may include an electrocardiogramSee ECG. (ECG) to assess 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. and chest X-rays to examine heart size and lung structure. Blood tests may also be performed to evaluate the dog’s general health and rule out other possible causes for the symptoms.

Therapy

The therapy for tricuspid valve insufficiency depends on the severity of the disease and the symptoms that occur. In mild cases where no significant symptoms are present, regular monitoring may be sufficient to observe the dog’s condition.

For dogs with symptomatic heart failure, medical treatment may be necessary. DiureticsDiuretics are medications that increase urine production in the kidneys to rid the body of excess salt and water. They are often used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and certain types of edema. are often used to reduce excess fluid in the body and decrease the strain on the heart. ACE inhibitors can help lower blood pressure and improve heart function.

In severe cases, surgical intervention may be required to repair or replace the valve. However, these operations are complex and rarely performed in veterinary medicine. Access to specialized surgical facilities and costs can also play a role.

An adapted diet and an individual exercise program can also be part of the treatment plan to support the dog’s heart health and slow 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.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for dogs with tricuspid valve insufficiencyInsufficiency refers to the inadequate function or performance of an organ or system. This can include, for example, heart failure, kidney failure, or venous insufficiency. varies greatly and depends on the severity of the disease and the response to therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions.. Dogs with mild forms of the disease that show no significant symptoms can have a normal quality of life and reach a normal lifespan.

For dogs with severe symptoms or progressiveProgressive describes a condition or disease that worsens over time. This term is often used to characterize the course of an illness that causes increasingly severe symptoms or damage. heart failure, the prognosis is more cautious. TherapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. can improve quality of life and slow 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, but the long-term 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. may be limited.

Regular veterinary check-ups and close collaboration with the veterinarian are crucial to monitor the dog’s condition and adjust treatment accordingly.

Prevention

Since tricuspid valve insufficiencyInsufficiency refers to the inadequate function or performance of an organ or system. This can include, for example, heart failure, kidney failure, or venous insufficiency. is often congenital, there are limited options for preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring.. However, careful breeding practices can help reduce the risk of genetically determined heart defects. Breeders should only breed with dogs that have no known heart problems and have regular heart examinations performed on breeding animals.

For dogs already suffering from tricuspid valve insufficiency, it is important to have regular veterinary check-ups to 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 to intervene early if the condition worsens.

A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can also help support overall heart health and reduce the risk of complications.

Outlook on current research

Tricuspid valve insufficiency in dogs is a heart disease characterized by an incomplete closure of the tricuspid valve in the heart. This valve is located between the right atriumThe atrium (plural: atria) is one of the two upper chambers in the heart that receive blood from the body (right atrium) or from the lungs (left atrium). and 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.. If it does not function properly, blood can flow back into the atrium, leading to a range of health problems. In veterinary research, ongoing studies focus on the geneticsGenetics is the science of genes, heredity, and the variation of organisms. It studies how genetic information is passed from generation to generation and how it influences the development, appearance, and behavior of living things. causes of this disease. Researchers are investigating genetic markers and specific genes that could be associated with the development of tricuspid valve insufficiencyInsufficiency refers to the inadequate function or performance of an organ or system. This can include, for example, heart failure, kidney failure, or venous insufficiency.. The goal is to identify risk factors early to develop more targeted prevention measures.

Another important area of research is the development and improvement of diagnostic techniques. Traditional 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. are constantly being improved to enable more accurate and earlier 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.. Researchers are working on implementing three-dimensional imaging procedures and other advanced technologies to obtain more detailed images of the heart. These methods could make it easier for veterinarians to better assess the severity of the insufficiencyInsufficiency refers to the inadequate function or performance of an organ or system. This can include, for example, heart failure, kidney failure, or venous insufficiency. and adjust therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. accordingly.

Therapeutic research focuses on the development of new medications and treatment methods. While current treatments typically alleviate the symptoms of the disease, scientists are working on developing medications that directly target the underlying pathophysiologyPathophysiology deals with the changes in physiological processes caused by diseases or injuries. It examines how these changes lead to the symptoms and signs of a disease.. In addition, there are studies dealing with surgical techniques that could be used in severe cases of tricuspid valve insufficiencyInsufficiency refers to the inadequate function or performance of an organ or system. This can include, for example, heart failure, kidney failure, or venous insufficiency.. Innovative approaches such as 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. procedures are being investigated to reduce the risk of complications and shorten the recovery time for animals.

Another exciting field of research is regenerative medicine. Scientists are investigating the possibility of repairing damaged heart tissue using stem cells or other regenerative approaches. This research is still in its early stages but shows promising results in initialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. studies. If these techniques are further developed, they could represent a revolutionary treatment option for dogs with tricuspid valve insufficiencyInsufficiency refers to the inadequate function or performance of an organ or system. This can include, for example, heart failure, kidney failure, or venous insufficiency..

In summary, research into tricuspid valve insufficiencyInsufficiency refers to the inadequate function or performance of an organ or system. This can include, for example, heart failure, kidney failure, or venous insufficiency. in dogs is moving in various directions, including geneticsGenetics is the science of genes, heredity, and the variation of organisms. It studies how genetic information is passed from generation to generation and how it influences the development, appearance, and behavior of living things., diagnostics, therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions., and regenerative medicine. Advances in these areas could lead to better diagnostic options, more effective treatments, and possibly even preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of this disease in the future.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is tricuspid valve insufficiency in dogs?

Tricuspid valve insufficiency is a heart disease in which the heart's tricuspid valve does not close properly. This causes blood to flow back into the right atrium, which can lead to an overload of the heart. -

What causes tricuspid valve insufficiency in dogs?

The causes can be congenital, meaning the malformation is present at birth. There are also other factors such as infections or degenerative diseases that can lead to this insufficiency later in life. -

What symptoms occur in dogs with tricuspid valve insufficiency?

Common symptoms include shortness of breath, Lethargy, Cough, abdominal swelling, and reduced exercise tolerance. In severe cases, cardiac arrhythmia or heart failure may occur. -

How is tricuspid valve insufficiency diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually made through a physical examination, accompanied by imaging techniques such as echocardiography. Blood tests and X-rays may also be part of the diagnosis. -

Can tricuspid valve insufficiency be cured?

A complete cure is not possible in most cases, but the disease can be controlled with medication and other treatments to improve the dog's quality of life. -

What treatment options are available for affected dogs?

Therapy often includes heart medications that support heart function and alleviate symptoms. In some cases, surgery may also be considered, especially if the insufficiency is severe. -

Are there preventive measures against tricuspid valve insufficiency?

Since the disease is often genetically determined, preventive measures are limited. However, a healthy diet and regular veterinary check-ups can help monitor heart health. -

Which breeds are more susceptible to this disease?

Some dog breeds, such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Great Danes, are more susceptible to heart problems, including tricuspid valve insufficiency, due to genetic predispositions. -

What is the prognosis for dogs with tricuspid valve insufficiency?

The prognosis depends on the severity of the insufficiency and the dog's general health. With early diagnosis and appropriate therapy, many dogs can maintain a good quality of life. -

How often should a dog with this condition go to the vet?

Regular veterinary check-ups are important. The frequency depends on the individual case, but generally, affected dogs should be examined every three to six months to monitor the course of the disease.

Literature

Robinson WF, Robinson NA. Cardiovascular System. Jubb, Kennedy & Palmer’s Pathology of Domestic Animals: Volume 3. 2016:1–101.e1. doi: 10.1016/B978-0-7020-5319-1.00012-8.Atkins C, Bonagura J, Ettinger S, Fox P, Gordon S, Haggstrom J, Hamlin R, Keene B, Luis-Fuentes V, Stepien R. Guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of canine chronic valvular heart disease. J Vet Intern Med. 2009 Nov-Dec;23(6):1142-50.
Keene BW, Atkins CE, Bonagura JD, Fox PR, Häggström J, Fuentes VL, Oyama MA, Rush JE, Stepien R, Uechi M. ACVIM consensus guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of myxomatous mitral valve disease in dogs. J Vet Intern Med. 2019 May;33(3):1127-1140.
Guglielmini C. Cardiovascular diseases in the ageing dog: diagnostic and therapeutic problems. Vet Res Commun.
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