Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) in American Water Spaniels
High Risk Category: Cardiac Typical onset: 5-10 years Hereditary: Yes Est. treatment cost: £1,500-£5,000/year
Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) is one of the most frequently diagnosed conditions in the breed within the American Water Spaniel. Common indicators include heart murmur detected on examination, coughing especially at night, and exercise intolerance. MVD is the most common heart disease in dogs, characterised by progressive degeneration of the mitral valve leaflets causing regurgitation of blood back into the left atrium. It leads to cardiac enlargement and eventually congestive heart failure. It typically becomes apparent at 5-10 years. This condition has a hereditary component — prospective owners should request documentation of health screening from the breeder. Treatment costs are estimated at £1,500-£5,000/year, making comprehensive pet insurance a practical consideration.