Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC)
What is ARVC?
Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy, also known as Boxer Cardiomyopathy, is a disease where normal heart muscle in the right ventricle is progressively replaced by fatty or fibrous tissue. This disrupts the heart's electrical system, causing ventricular arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms) that can range from occasional extra beats to life-threatening ventricular tachycardia. ARVC is most common in Boxers but can occasionally occur in other breeds.
Disease stages
ARVC typically presents in three categories: Concealed (arrhythmias present but no symptoms - detected only by Holter monitor), Overt (symptoms like fainting, exercise intolerance, or collapse), and Myocardial failure (heart muscle weakens similar to DCM, leading to heart failure). Some dogs experience sudden cardiac death as the first sign.
Key research
The Smith et al. (2007) study demonstrated that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation (fish oil) significantly reduced the number of ventricular premature complexes in Boxers with ARVC.
Breeds affected by ARVC
Medications commonly used for ARVC
Sotalol (Betapace, Sotylize)
An antiarrhythmic medication used to control dangerous heart rhythm abnormalities (arrhythmias) in dogs with DCM, particularly ventricular premature complexes (VPCs).
Furosemide (Lasix, Salix)
A powerful diuretic used to remove excess fluid from the body when DCM has progressed to congestive heart failure. Essential for managing fluid in the lungs or abdomen.
Mexiletine (Mexitil)
An antiarrhythmic medication frequently used in combination with sotalol to control severe or treatment-resistant ventricular arrhythmias in Dobermans with DCM. Mexiletine targets a different part of the heart's electrical system than sotalol, making the two drugs especially effective together.
Medications are determined by your veterinarian based on your dog's individual condition and stage. This list represents commonly used medications for ARVC.
Articles about ARVC
Screening recommendations by breed
| Breed | Start age | Frequency | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boxer | 3–4 years old | Annually (Holter monitor recommended) | 24-hour Holter monitor, Echocardiogram |
Find a veterinary cardiologist near you
Early diagnosis from a board-certified cardiologist is the single most impactful thing you can do for a dog with ARVC.
Disclaimer:This content is for educational purposes only. It is based on published veterinary research and community experience, but is not written by a veterinarian and does not constitute medical advice. Every dog is different. Always consult your veterinarian or a board-certified veterinary cardiologist before making any changes to your dog's care, diet, or treatment plan.