Basic Cardiac Evaluation for the Biewer Terrier*

Educational Information for Biewer Terrier Owners

Understanding the OFA Basic Cardiac Examination and Its Role in Responsible Health Screening

Introduction

Heart health is an important component of a comprehensive health screening program for all dogs, including the Biewer Terrier. While the breed is generally regarded as healthy, the Biewer Terrier Club of America (BTCA) encourages owners and breeders to consider a Basic Cardiac Evaluation as part of its recommended pre-breeding health testing protocol.

The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) maintains a Cardiac Database where owners may voluntarily submit the results of cardiac examinations performed by licensed veterinarians, helping build valuable breed health information over time.

Why a Basic Cardiac Exam Matters

A Basic Cardiac Evaluation provides valuable information to owners, veterinarians, and breeders and may identify evidence of heart disease before clinical signs become apparent.

  • May help identify inherited cardiovascular conditions before breeding.
  • Allows earlier monitoring and treatment when appropriate.
  • Contributes valuable health information to the OFA Cardiac Database.
  • Promotes transparency and supports long-term breed health.

Dogs examined at 12 months of age or older may receive an OFA cardiac certification if no evidence of cardiac disease is detected. Because some forms of heart disease develop later in life, OFA certification is valid for one year. OFA recommends annual examinations for breeding dogs.

The BTCA Health & Research Committee encourages owners to submit all Basic Cardiac Evaluation results to the OFA database, whether normal or abnormal. Every submission contributes valuable information that supports breed health research, transparency, and informed breeding decisions.

How the Evaluation Is Performed

A Basic Cardiac Evaluation may be performed by any licensed veterinarian, including a general practice veterinarian. The examination is based primarily on cardiac auscultation, in which the veterinarian carefully listens to the heart with a stethoscope in a quiet environment.

  • Heart rate and rhythm
  • Heart sounds
  • Presence or absence of a heart murmur
  • Peripheral pulse quality
  • Mucous membrane color
  • Overall cardiovascular assessment

When to Consider Evaluation by a Veterinary Cardiologist

A Basic exam performed by a general practitioner is an accepted OFA screening examination. Referral to a board-certified veterinary cardiologist may be recommended if abnormalities are detected.

  • A heart murmur is identified.
  • An abnormal heart rhythm is detected.
  • The dog shows signs such as exercise intolerance, fainting, coughing, or difficulty breathing.
  • Advanced cardiac evaluation is recommended by the attending veterinarian.

These advanced evaluations provide detailed information about cardiac structure and function and help confirm or rule out underlying heart disease.

Breeding Considerations

The Biewer Terrier Club of America currently lists the Basic Cardiac Evaluation as an optional health screening within its health recommendations. Although it is not required for OFA CHIC certification, cardiac screening provides valuable information regarding the cardiovascular health of breeding dogs.

Submitting annual examination results to the OFA database increases knowledge of the prevalence and age of onset of heart disease in Biewer Terriers while supporting responsible breeding practices and future health research.

Disclaimers

  • A Basic Cardiac Evaluation reflects the dog’s cardiovascular status only at the time of the examination.
  • A normal cardiac examination does not guarantee that heart disease will not develop later in life.
  • Some forms of heart disease develop later in life and may not be detectable during earlier examinations; therefore, annual screening is recommended.
  • The OFA Basic Cardiac Evaluation is a screening examination and is not intended to replace diagnostic testing when heart disease is suspected.
  • Owners should consult their primary veterinarian or a board-certified veterinary cardiologist regarding any concerns about their dog’s heart health or if abnormal findings are identified during routine examinations.

Conclusion

The OFA Basic Cardiac Evaluation provides a practical and standardized method for assessing cardiovascular health in the Biewer Terrier. When combined with the breed’s other recommended health screenings, cardiac evaluations support informed healthcare decisions, responsible breeding practices, and greater transparency within the breed.

Annual examinations, particularly for breeding dogs, help identify cardiovascular changes that may develop over time and contribute to the long-term health, preservation, and genetic stewardship of the Biewer Terrier.

*This educational handout compiles public veterinary literature and does not represent original research, official policy, or guidance from the Biewer Terrier Club of America (BTCA). This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice. Owners of dogs showing new or unusual symptoms should consult a licensed veterinarian immediately. The BTCA Health Committee encourages members to consult qualified veterinary professionals for all canine health decisions.

Educational Resources & Further Information