Vol. 9, Issue 12, Part J (2025)

 Cardiovascular anomalies (CAs) in canines are significant developmental disorders that often arise from disruptions during embryogenesis. Normal heart development involves stages like heart tube formation, cardiac looping, and chamber septation (Anderson et al., 2020). Disturbances in these processes can lead to structural malformations such as patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), persistent right aortic arch (PRAA), subaortic stenosis (SAS), and septal defects. These issues can affect hemodynamic efficiency, leading to symptoms like exercise intolerance and heart failure, although some may remain subclinical until acute events occur. Recent advancements in veterinary cardiology emphasize the role of blood-based biomarkers alongside imaging techniques. N-terminal pro–brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and cardiac troponins serve as indicators of myocardial stress and dysfunction, with elevated NT-proBNP levels linked to various CAs (Hariu et al., 2013). Combining biomarker data with echocardiography and radiography enhances diagnostic accuracy, especially in breeds prone to specific anomalies (Schober and Baade, 2000). Understanding the connection between embryology, anatomical deviations, and biomarkers is essential for tackling canine CAs. Establishing reference ranges for these biomarkers across breeds is vital for future research (Klein et al., 2022). By integrating developmental anatomy with innovative diagnostic tools, veterinarians can improve detection, management, and breeding practices, thus enhancing canine cardiac health.