Pulmonic Stenosis

Pulmonic stenosis is a narrowing in or near the valve that controls blood flow from the heart's right ventricle into the pulmonary artery, which carries blood to the lungs. This narrowing means the heart has to work harder to push blood through, and over time that extra effort can affect how well the heart functions. It is most often present from birth, though the signs may not become apparent until later in life. Many dogs with pulmonic stenosis show no obvious signs at all, and the condition is first noticed when a veterinary surgeon hears a heart murmur during a routine examination. In other cases, an owner may observe reduced stamina during exercise, episodes of weakness, or occasionally breathing that seems more laboured than expected. The severity varies widely—some animals live normally with minimal impact, while others develop more significant limitations as the heart adapts to the increased workload. This page explores the patterns that can prompt investigation, the mechanisms underlying the condition, the ways it is assessed and monitored, and the range of approaches that may be considered depending on severity and individual circumstances.