Prevalence of Congenital Heart Diseases in Dogs in Tehran, Iran: A Retrospective Study From 2013 to 2023

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is a major health issue in dogs, contributing to both morbidity and mortality. This retrospective study reviews the epidemiological features and prevalence of CHD in dogs visiting veterinary facilities in Tehran, Iran, over the last 10 years. Medical records were analyzed for 4033 canines that underwent comprehensive cardiac examinations, including echocardiography, between January 2013 and October 2023. In this study, 88 cases of CHD were detected, and an overall prevalence of 2.18% was determined. A significant difference was noted between mixed-breed dogs (8.65%) and purebred dogs (1.63%). Pulmonary stenosis (PS) is the most commonly diagnosed CHD, followed by subaortic stenosis (SAS) and patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). CHD prevalence correlated strongly with age and gender; in particular, females and older dogs were more likely to suffer from specific CHDs. CHD is most often diagnosed without symptoms, highlighting the importance of regular screenings and careful auscultation for early detection. Future research must focus on identifying the genetic factors that make dogs more susceptible to CHDs and developing more effective methods for diagnosing and treating these conditions in canine populations. This study does not represent the general dog population in the region or the country but provides researchers with valuable insights into the epidemiology of CHD in dogs referred to veterinary hospitals in Tehran, Iran, underlining the importance of monitoring and focused therapies to improve their health and general well-being.