Tricuspid Valve Dysplasia (TVD)

TVD is a congenital, heritable heart defect that seems to be increasing in frequency in Labrador Retrievers. The tricuspid valve is one of four heart valves and allows blood to flow in one direction from the right atrium into the right ventricle. If a puppy inherits the gene (or genes) responsible for the defect, his tricuspid valve will be malformed in utero. The puppy will have a dysplastic valve at birth that does not shut tightly, allowing blood to leak back through it. The size of the leak will dictate the severity of the disease. A puppy with mild leakage will likely have a normal life span. If the leakage is severe, the puppy may not live to see his first birthday.

At present, it is not known what the mode of inheritance of this disease is.

For further information on TVD, see:

• Tricuspid Dysplasia: A Cardiologist’s Perspective (pdf document)
• Tricuspid Valve Dysplasia in the Labrador Retriever

Note: This section of the Canada’s Guide to Dogs website is intended as a source of information only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional care. Always consult with your Veterinarian about health related matters.