An atrial septal defect (ASD) is a rare disorder in which, prior to birth, a defect or hole occurs in the muscle wall (the septum) between the heart’s two upper (atrial) chambers.

An atrial septal defect will create variety of symptoms depending upon the size and location of the defect or hole in the septum. Minor defects may cause no visible symptoms. Larger defects create an imbalance in the blood pressure in the heart and cause abnormal tiring, difficulty breathing, abnormal heartbeat, abdominal swelling, fainting or even death.

An atrial septal defect is an inherited condition, although the exact mechanism of inheritance is not known.

An atrial septal defect is usually first detected in young puppies as a heart murmur. Your vet may use an electrocardiograph, radiograph or ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment depends on the severity of the atrial septal defect. Many dogs with minor defects require no treatment and live normal lives. For more moderate cases, medications may be given to support normal heart function and relieve respiratory congestion. In these cases, your vet may also put your dog on a special, heart-healthy diet and restrict your dog’s activity. For severe atrial septal defects, your vet may recommend that your dog undergo surgery to repair the defect or hole.

Since an atrial septal defect is an inherited condition, affected dogs should not be bred.

No, you cannot contract an atrial septal defect from your dog.