For the first time a genetic test for heart disease in the Rhodesian Ridgeback is available.

Ventricular Arrhythmia (IVA) is an inherited disease affecting the Rhodesian Ridgeback breed causing an abnormality in the cardiac electrical system leading to the development of abnormal heart beats (premature ventricular beats. In some cases these abnormal heart beats can result in sudden death. It appears that the most severe disease may be present between 6 and 30 months of age and many dogs appear to outgrow the problem.

It must also be noted that only about 60% of homozygous or heterozygous affected dogs develop symptoms. In addition, the mode of inheritance is still unknown. Nevertheless, genetic testing can reduce the spread of the variant in the breed.

Occurrence: Low sample numbers so far. Carriers and affected animals have already been found.