Bulldog Research Articles

Morbidity and mortality: Death of an English bulldog during general anaesthesia for thoracic radiographs – the tip of an iceberg

Morbidity and mortality: Death of an English bulldog during general anaesthesia for thoracic radiographs – the tip of an iceberg

Prevalence of discospondylitis and association with congenital vertebral body malformations in English and French bulldogs.

Limited current information exists regarding discospondylitis within breeds commonly affected by congenital vertebral body malformations. Report the prevalence of discospondylitis in English and French bulldogs and investigate for possible associations of discospondylitis with congenital vertebral body malformations. 108 client-owned dogs. Retrospective multi-institutional study between June 2010 and 2020. Cases with a diagnosis of discospondylitis on computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and complete medical records included. Signalment, discospondylitis location, presence of congenital vertebral body malformations, and the site of maximal kyphosis were recorded. The prevalence of discospondylitis was 3.4 (1.6-6.7, 95% confidence interval [CI]) times higher in French bulldogs (P < .001) and 4.3 (1.7-9.8, 95% CI) times higher in English bulldogs (<.001), compared with the overall hospital cohort. One or more vertebral malformations were present in 12 French bulldogs (92.3%), 6 English bulldogs (75.0%), and 1 "other" breed dog (1.1%). Discospondylitis was diagnosed adjacent to congenital vertebral body malformations in 12 (80%) intervertebral discs in French bulldogs and 5 (50%) intervertebral discs in English bulldogs. The median age at presentation was significantly younger in French bulldogs (1.1 years; range, 0.5-9.2 years) and English bulldogs (1.0 years; range, 0.4-7.0 years), compared with "other" breed dogs (7.3 years; range, 0.3-14.0 years; both P < .001). Congenital vertebral body malformations were frequently associated with discospondylitis in French and English bulldogs, with clinical signs commonly encountered at a significantly younger age.

Evaluation of measurements for tracheal hypoplasia in French bulldogs.

Tracheal narrowing may increase airflow resistance, resulting in clinical manifestations associated with brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). When diagnosing tracheal hypoplasia, established values are based on measurements established for English bulldogs or non-specific "bulldog" breeds. The objective of this study was to investigate tracheal diameter ratios in French bulldogs to gain a better understanding of what would constitute tracheal hypoplasia in this breed. A retrospective observational analysis was conducted to measure the right lateral thoracic radiographs of 139 French bulldogs to investigate tracheal diameter ratios. Pulmonary disease was observed in 55/139 dogs. The mean TD:Ti for healthy French bulldogs was 0.15 (±0.02), and the mean TD:ML was 0.32 (±0.07). 44/84 dogs had a TD:Ti<0.15 (±0.02), and 37/65 dogs had a TD:ML<0.32 (±0.07). At least one thoracic vertebral anomaly was observed in 131/139 of evaluated French bulldogs, and sternal malformations were observed in 42/139 dogs. TD:ML showed an excellent interclass correlation between observers (ICCinter 0.9562). The listed covariables were compared for statistical significance when measuring relative tracheal ratios, and none were found. There was a statistically significant relationship between TD:Ti and sex. An objective value for tracheal hypoplasia in French bulldogs has previously not been established. The mean TD:Ti described for French bulldogs in this study is higher than that previously described in other "bulldog" populations. The mean TD:ML is similar to previously reported for non-brachycephalic and non-bulldog brachycephalic small breed dogs. The correlative relationship between TD:Ti and TD:ML was statistically significant but weak.

Management of corneal ulcer in a British bull dog by telemedicine

The delivery of healthcare services, where distance is a critical factor, by all healthcare professionals using information and communication technologies for the exchange of valid information for diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease and injuries, are still poorly practiced for advancing the health of the animals at distant remote areas. Corneal ulcer continues to be a common ophthalmic condition in dogs that originates mostly due to trauma resulting in break in the continuity of underlying corneal stroma, that become contaminated with bacteria in complicated cases. A British bull dog received telemedicine such as eye drops containing Betensol and Neomycin 3 drops thrice daily for 5 days followed by gatifloxacine eye drop for a week, acyclovir at the dose rate of 100mg twice daily for a week. There was very good improvement and the ulcer got completely healed by 15 from start of the therapy.

Evaluation of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome breeding test results in Finland from 2017 to 2022

BackgroundBrachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), observed in many flat-faced dog breeds, is one of the most urgent welfare problems in pedigree dogs. Various breeding schemes against BOAS have been implemented in many countries during recent years, but their impact on breed health remains unknown. The BOAS breeding test, used by the Finnish Kennel Club (FKC), includes an exercise component with a recovery assessment, BOAS grading by a veterinarian that evaluates upper respiratory signs before and after exercise, and a nostril stenosis assessment. The aim of our study was to evaluate BOAS breeding test results and estimate the heritability of the BOAS grade using parent–offspring regression from FKC data collected during 2017–2022.ResultsThe majority (80%) of dogs (n = 957) participating in FKC BOAS testing were English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and Pugs. In 2022, 89–100% of the litters from these three breeds registered with the FKC had at least one parent tested for BOAS. The proportion of dogs failing the exercise test was highest in English Bulldogs (11%), followed by French Bulldogs (4%) and Pugs (3%). In these three breeds, moderate to severe BOAS signs were reported in 28%, 22% and 30% of dogs, respectively. The proportion of moderate to severe nostril stenosis was highest (71%) in Pugs, followed by French Bulldogs (55%), and English Bulldogs (40%). Estimates of heritability for BOAS grade were separately calculated for these three breeds and for all dogs, and the estimates were moderate to high, ranging from 0.39 to 0.58.ConclusionsThe exercise test alone did not sufficiently identify dogs with moderate to severe BOAS signs. To better consider the complex nature of BOAS and breed differences, exercise tolerance, the severity of upper respiratory signs (BOAS grade) and nostril stenosis should all be assessed together in breeding animals. The heritability estimates for veterinary-assessed BOAS grade indicated that BOAS grade could be used in selective breeding to obtain less-affected offspring.

Pathomorphological and Immunohistochemical Study of Fibrosarcoma in an Adult Dog: A Case Report

Aim: The objective of the present case report is to describe pathomorphological findings and immunohistochemical expression of pancytokeratin (PCK), vimentin, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and Ki67 in a case of fibrosarcoma in dog. Case Presentation: A large, round ball-like growth of approximately 14 centimetres in diameter was noticed on caudal aspect of left thigh region in ten years old male bull dog. Its surface was ulcerated. It was soft in consistency and cut surface appeared pinkish-white. Giemsa-stained smears revealed spindle cells with elongated nuclei containing granular chromatin, single to multiple nucleoli and scanty cytoplasm. Histopathological examination revealed moderately to well-differentiated neoplastic fibroblasts arranged in interwoven pattern with the presence of collagenous stroma. Neoplastic cells were characterized by pleomorphic, oval to elongated nuclei with single to multiple prominent nucleoli and moderate to scanty cytoplasm. Mitotic count was 1.2/high power field. The Immunohistochemical staining revealed intracytoplasmic positive immunoreactivity for vimentin and no immunoreactivity for PCK. Proliferating neoplastic cells revealed mild to strong nuclear immunostaining for PCNA and Ki67 with 56.7% PCNA index and 4.0% Ki67 index. Conclusion: Based on histopathological findings, the case was diagnosed as fibrosarcoma. Immunopositive reactivity for vimentin and no immunoreactivity for PCK indicated the mesenchymal origin of the tumour. Histopathological features, low mitotic count and low Ki67 index suggested the less aggressive behaviour of the tumour in the present case.

Total ear canal ablation and lateral bulla osteotomy (TECA/LBO) for the management of ear canal tumor in an Amarican Bull dog

Total ear canal ablation and lateral bulla osteotomy (TECA/LBO) for the management of ear canal tumor in an Amarican Bull dog

Analysis of anesthetic protocols during cesarean section in dogs: a systematic review

There are many problems associated with uncontrolled artificial breeding of dogs, which lead to anatomical abnormalities. In the literature, there is a tendency for dog breeds to appear that have anatomical and physiological changes that lead to the development of pathological childbirth. In populations of breeds with a particularly high risk of dystocia, such as the English Bulldog, the frequency of planned cesarean sections can approach 80%, therefore it is necessary to take a responsible approach to the formation of anesthetic protocols. Thus, the survival rate of newborns and the state of the maternal body depend on this. Anesthesia protocols adopted for cesarean section should provide adequate muscle relaxation, anesthesia and anesthesia to ensure optimal working conditions. The use of opioid analgesics helps to ensure adequate pain control during cesarean section. One of the most commonly used opioids during this surgery in dogs is morphine. The dosage of morphine may vary depending on the size of the dog and the degree of pain. When performing a cesarean section, it is recommended to use drugs that do not cause neonatal depression. It is noted that epidural anesthesia reduces the need for intraoperative analgesics without causing severe neonatal depression. The main drugs that can be used in the preparation of an anesthesiological protocol during cesarean section are propofol, isoflurane, sevoflurane, lidocaine, morphine, fentanyl. The results of the analysis of the literature data showed the effectiveness of the use of drugs from different groups of medicines.

Maternal and neonatal effects of epidural levobupivacaine combined with fentanyl or sufentanil for elective cesarean-section in brachycephalic breeds

The aim of this study was to compare the safety and clinical efficacy of epidural levobupivacaine combined with fentanyl or sufentanil for bitches undergoing elective cesarean-section and the impact of these anesthetic protocols on neonatal viability. The anesthetic protocol consisted of intramuscular morphine (0.2 mg/kg), followed by an intravenous bolus of propofol, in a dose sufficient to allowed the puncture of the lumbosacral space. The dogs were randomly allocated to receive 0.5 % levobupivacaine plus fentanyl (2.5 µg/kg; LF: n = 9) or sufentanil (1 µg/kg; LS; n = 11). Maternal cardiorespiratory parameters were monitored at specific time points during surgery. Intraoperative propofol supplementation was based on the presence of head and/or thoracic limb movements. Neonatal reflex responses and the Apgar score (range 0-10 points) were assessed at 5 and 60 minutes after birth. Puppy mortality rate was recorded until 24 hours after birth. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA, Tukey's test, Wilcoxon signed rank test, and Fisher's exact test (P < 0.05). Intraoperatively, maternal cardiorespiratory variables and propofol requirements were similar between groups, with no detection of anesthetic complications. The puppy reflex responses did not differ between groups at any time point. The medians (range) of Apgar scores were lower (P = 0.016) in the LF [5 (1-9)] at 5 minutes in comparison with LS [6 (2-9)], while no intergroup differences were recorded at 60 minutes [LF = 8 (2-10); LS = 9 (6-10]. The total mortality rate was 4.1 %. In the LS group, no puppies died, while in the LF 8 % of the puppies died in the first 24 hours after birth (P = 0.11). Epidural levobupivacaine combined with fentanyl or sufentanil provided minimal maternal and neonatal adverse effects, but neither protocol enabled the performance of a C-section in 100 % of the French and English bulldogs, without propofol supplementation.

Prevalence, clinical presentation, and etiology of myelopathies in 224 juvenile dogs.

Intervertebral disc herniation is widely recognized as the most common cause of myelopathy in dogs older than 2 years; however, the prevalence of various causes of myelopathy in younger dogs has not been reported. To describe the prevalence, clinical presentation, and etiology of myelopathy in dogs aged 18 months or less. Secondarily, to investigate which clinical features were associated with each of the most common etiologies. Two hundred twenty-four dogs aged 18 months or less with myelopathy were included in the study. Retrospective review of clinical records from 4 referral institutions. Multivariable logistic regression analyses assessed which clinical features were associated with each diagnosis. French bulldogs (n = 51, 22.8%), pugs (n = 18, 8.0%), crossbreeds (n = 12, 5.4%), and English bulldogs (n = 11, 4.9%) were the most frequently affected breeds. Overall, 31 diagnoses were reached. The 5 most frequent diagnoses were vertebral malformation (VM; n = 42, 18.8%), spinal arachnoid diverticulum (SAD; n = 28, 12.5%), traumatic fracture of the vertebral column (n = 22, 9.8%), atlantoaxial instability (n = 18, 8.0%), and osseous-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy (n = 17, 7.6%). Intervertebral disc extrusion (IVDE) accounted for 4.5% of cases (n = 10). A final diagnosis of VM was associated with younger, screw-tailed, and pug breeds with chronic signs of T3-L3 myelopathy. SAD was associated with screw-tailed and pug breeds with nonpainful clinical signs. Intervertebral disc extrusion was associated with older, screw-tailed, and pug breeds with shorter duration of clinical signs. Prioritization of differential diagnoses for dogs presenting with signs of myelopathy when aged 18 months or less should differ to those for older dogs, with IVDE not the most common cause in the former.

Factors related to longevity and mortality of dogs in Italy

Besides its translational value, an improved understanding of dog longevity and mortality is necessary to guide health management decisions, breed selection, and improve dog welfare. In order to analyse the lifespan of dogs in Italy, identify the most common causes of death, and evaluate possible risk factors, anonymised medical records were collected from 9 veterinary teaching hospitals and 2 public health institutions. Data regarding breed, sex, neuter status, age, diagnosis, and mechanism of death were retrieved. Cause of death (COD) was classified by pathophysiologic process (PP) and organ system (OS). Of the 4957 dogs that died between 2004 and 2020 included in the study, 2920 (59.0%) were purebred, 2293 (46.2%) were female, 3005 (60.6%) were intact, 2883 (58.2%) were euthanised. Overall median longevity was 10.0 years. Median longevity was significantly longer for crossbreds, females, neutered dogs, and small-sized breeds. The breeds with the highest median age at death were the Yorkshire terrier, English cocker spaniel, West Highland white terrier, Italian volpino, and Shih Tzu, whilst the American bulldog, English bulldog, American pit bull terrier, Bernese mountain dog and the Maremma and the Abruzzes sheepdog had the lowest median age at death. The most frequent COD by PP was neoplasia (34.0%), which occurred more frequently in large breeds, namely German shepherd, Labrador retriever and Boxer. Degenerative diseases mostly affected small-sized dogs like Miniature pinscher and Dachshund. Regarding the OS involved, diseases of the renal/urinary system were most frequently responsible for COD (15.0%), prevalently degenerative and inflammatory/infectious. Substantial variation in median longevity according to causes of death by PP and OS was observed. These data are relevant for breeders, veterinary practitioners, and owners, to assist breed selection, facilitate early diagnosis, guide choice when purchasing a purebred dog and making health management decisions, and ultimately improve dog welfare.

The Relation between Plasma Nesfatin-1 Levels and Aggressive Behavior in Pit Bull Dogs.

Aggression is a prevalent and concerning behavioral issue in dogs. Pit Bull dogs, known for their high levels of aggression, are recognized as a focus of concern in society. In our study, we aimed to investigate the behavioral characteristics of Pit Bull dogs and explore the potential roles of peptides involved in the neurobiology of aggression. Initially, female, and male dogs underwent aggression tests, and their aggression levels were categorized. Plasma nesfatin-1, serotonin, oxytocin, and dopamine levels were quantified using ELISA, with blood samples collected after a 24 h fasting period and 2 h post-refeeding. Our findings indicate that aggression in Pit Bull dogs correlates with decreased plasma nesfatin-1, serotonin, and oxytocin levels, while dopamine levels increase. The study's findings indicate that fasted dogs exhibited lower plasma levels of nesfatin-1, serotonin, and dopamine, while plasma oxytocin levels were higher. Furthermore, while the research findings do not suggest a significant relationship between the severity of aggression and the gender of the dog, male Pit Bull breeds appear to have higher plasma nesfatin-1 and serotonin levels compared to their female counterparts. The study's findings demonstrate that nesfatin-1, serotonin, oxytocin, and dopamine play pivotal roles in Pit Bull dogs' aggression, indicating potential interactions among these neuropeptides at the central nervous system level.

Presumed mediastinal cysts have a low prevalence in canine thoracic computed tomographic studies.

Mediastinal cysts (MCs) are rare lesions that can arise from embryonic remnants of various mediastinal structures. MCs usually are incidental findings in dogs and cats; however, they can reach a mass-like appearance. The description of MCs on CT in dogs is limited. This retrospective, single-center, descriptive, prevalence study aimed to determine the prevalence of presumed mediastinal cysts (PMCs) in dogs and assess their CT characteristics. Dogs that underwent a thoracic CT scan from January 2019 to August 2021 were included. CT images were evaluated for the presence of PMCs by two diagnostic imaging interns, two last year diagnostic imaging residents, and a board-certified veterinary radiologist. Number, location, margins, shape, volume, size, mass effect, and attenuation values of PMCs were assessed. A total of 866 CT scans were reviewed, and 49 PMCs were identified. The prevalence of PMCs in dogs was 5.66%. English Bulldog and mixed-breed dogs were subjectively overrepresented; however, the possibility of population bias could not be excluded. PMCs were subjectively more frequently observed in male dogs. The PMCs were predominantly round, small, solitary fluid-filled findings localized in the cranioventral mediastinum, with well-defined margins, homogeneous attenuation, and no contrast enhancement. The median attenuation value was 6.32 HU (range: -20.16 to 23.45 HU) precontrast and 7.58 HU (range: -2.45 to 20.79 HU) postcontrast, and the median volume was 1.19 cm3 (range: 0.02-45.32 cm3). Although the prevalence of PMCs was low in our sample population, findings supported prioritizing a differential diagnosis of incidental PMC for dogs with the above imaging characteristics.

Heart rate variability and vasovagal tone index in brachycephalic dogs.

Brachycephalic breeds of dogs, most of which show signs of the brachycephalic syndrome may have greater parasympathetic stimulation than other breeds, leading to higher values of heart rate variability and vagal tone index. The aim of this study was to establish a computerized electrocardiographic study and an assessment of the vagus sympathetic balance through heart rate variability and vagal tone index of five brachycephalic breeds compared to mesocephalic dogs. Sixty dogs were used, divided into groups made up of Boxers, English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Pugs, Shih-Tzu and no defined breed mesocephalic dogs. Statistical analysis was carried out using the Shapiro-Wilk test, Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn's test or ANOVA and Bonferroni (p<0.05). In the evaluation of vagal sympathetic balance among all the dogs, there was a negative correlation between heart rate and HRV 10RR (r = - 0.7678; p < 0.0001), HRV 20RR (r = - 0.8548, p < 0.0001) and VVTI (r = - 0.2770; p = 0.0321). It can therefore be concluded that the dog's breed and morphology did not alter its electrocardiographic parameters or heart rate variability. The vagal tone index, which in other studies differed in brachycephalic dogs, showed no difference when compared separately in brachycephalic breeds.

Pitiose esofágica e gástrica em cão

ABSTRACT: Pythiosis is the disease caused by aquatic oomycetes of the genus Pythium. In dogs the typical course of the disease involves the gastrointestinal tract, characterized by transmural thickening of the stomach or intestines. However, infection by Pythium spp. has only rarely been recognized as a cause of esophagitis in dogs. Thus, the present reports a case of esophageal and gastric pythiosis in an eight-month-old female pit bull dog. The dog was attended at the hospital after two months presenting regurgitation and dyspnea. It was reported that the dog lived in an urban area and had no previous sanitary issues. At clinical examination it was noted that the dog presented crackling sounds at pulmonary auscultation. A support therapy accompanied by antibiotics has been employed; however, 22 days after hospitalization the clinical condition worsened, and the dog died. At necropsy, the wall of the distal segment of the esophagus and the cardia and part of the fundus of the stomach were expanded by a focal extensive irregular intramural annular mass. Additionally, there was a transmural esophageal fistula. At histology, the walls of the esophagus and stomach were extensively expanded by multifocal extensive areas of necrosis, associated with a pyogranulomatous infiltrate and abundant granulation tissue containing multiple negative images of hyphae that were highlighted by silver impregnation (Grocott). Furthermore, immunohistochemistry and PCR for P. insidiosum were both positive in samples of paraffin-embedded esophageal tissue.

Arcanobacterium canis strain DSM 25104 isolated from an English bulldog suffering from otitis externa: complete genome sequence.

Many species of the genus Arcanobacterium are known as opportunistic pathogens and have been isolated in association with infectious diseases in humans and animals. Here, we present the complete genome sequence of another opportunistic pathogenic representative, namely Arcanobacterium canis, isolated from the otitis externa of an English bulldog.

Apgar Score for Newborn Dog Viability Assessment: Differences between English and French Bulldogs Born via Cesarean Section.

Even if largely used in canine neonatology, some questions about the Apgar Score (AS) arose. Notably, considering the breed-oriented modifications of the score are needed, slight changes of the score were reported for English (EBs) and French bulldogs (FBs). The present study aimed to evaluate the possible differences between neonatal viability of the two breeds assessed by AS in puppies born via cesarean section. The results obtained from 99 puppies born alive and without malformations (EB = 47, FB = 52) showed significant (p < 0.001) differences in the median AS (seven in EB vs. eight in FB), with Grimace (p < 0.05 for sub-score 0 and p < 0.001 for sub-score 2) and Attitude (p < 0.05) being differently sub-scored between the two breeds. In the 89 alive puppies at 7 days of age, the same difference in the median AS was observed (p < 0.001), and only Grimace was differently sub-scored between the two breeds (p < 0.05 for sub-score 0 and p < 0.01 for sub-score 2). These results suggest that low Grimace could be an intrinsic characteristic of EB newborns, but it could negatively affect the neonatal adaptation process of EBs, providing an indication for focused neonatal assistance. Neonatal mortality at 7 days of age was higher in EBs than in FBs (17 vs. 3.8%, respectively), which deserves further investigations. The study provides further evidence that breed-oriented ASs are needed for a better evaluation and assistance of purebred puppies at birth.

Detección de infección por Brucella canis en perros de raza Pit Bull en Turquía

Brucella canis infection is an often neglected but important zoonotic disease. This study aims to determine its seroprevalence in Pit Bull dogs from the Western Region of the Turkish Anatolian Peninsula. In the Province of Manisa, 2 mL blood samples were taken from the antebrachial region of 35 Pit Bull dogs using sterile K2EDTA (3.6 mg) blood tubes, and the samples were analyzed using both the mercaptoethanol (ME) microagglutination test and B. canis–specific PCR techniques. Of the 35 dogs tested by 2–ME RSAT, 13 (37.14%) tested positive and 22 (63%) tested negative. Of the 13 dogs that tested positive for 2–ME RSAT, 8 (22.85%) were female, and 5 (14.28%) were male. Subsequent PCR analysis of all samples revealed that 7 (20%; 7/35) of the samples that tested positive for 2–ME RSAT were actually B. canis–specific PCR positive. These findings suggest that B. canis is present in Pit Bull dogs, although they provide a general idea of the disease's prevalence of the disease in the region. Multicentre studies with larger numbers of cases in different groups of Pit Bulls, such as healthy, patient and risk groups, are needed to provide comprehensive evidence.

The difference between two brachycephalic and one mesocephalic dog breeds’ problem-solving performance suggests evidence for paedomorphism in behaviour

Despite serious health and longevity problems, small brachycephalic breeds are becoming increasingly popular among pet owners. Motivations for choosing short-nosed breeds have been extensively investigated in recent years; however, this issue has been addressed mainly by relying on owner reports, resulting in explanations of “cute looks”, referring to the baby-schema phenomenon and “behaviour well suited for companionship”. We aimed to compare the behaviour of two brachycephalic (English and French bulldogs) and one mesocephalic (Mudi) breed in a problem-solving context. The dogs were given the task of opening boxes containing food rewards. We investigated human-directed behaviour elements over success and latency (indicators of motivation and ability). We found that both English and French bulldogs were significantly less successful in solving the problem than mudis. Both brachycephalic breeds had longer opening latencies than the mesocephalic breed. Brachycephalic breeds oriented less at the problem box and more at humans present. In summary, the short-headed breeds were less successful but oriented much more toward humans than mesocephalic dogs. Owners might interpret these behaviours as “helplessness” and dependence. The results support the hypothesis that infant-like traits may be present not only in appearance but also in behaviour in brachycephalic breeds, eliciting caring behaviour in owners.

3D Digital and Printed Hearts from Different Canine Breeds as an Educational Tool for Radiographic Interpretation

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is a new method of creating anatomical models, which can enhance the training of students and health professionals. The large breed-variation in dogs means that interpretation of thoracic radiographs can be challenging for the inexperienced radiologist. The aim of this study was to develop digital and printed 3D cardiac models from six canine breeds and evaluate their use as a tool for studying breed variations in radiology. The printed and digital 3D cardiac models were used by postgraduate veterinary students in diagnostic imaging along with a theoretical class on the subject and students completed a pre- and post-test, assessing cardiac size on thoracic radiographs in order to verify the usefulness of the models. The students then completed a satisfaction questionnaire on a Likert scale. There was a significant difference between the pre-test and the post-test results, with greater accuracy after using the 3D models. More errors were made in pre-test interpretation of radiographs from English Cocker Spaniel, English Bulldog, and Yorkshire Terrier and there were a significantly higher number of correct answers after using the 3D models. The vast majority of responses to all questions in the satisfaction questionnaire were positive, with partial or total agreement of the participants. This study demonstrates that digitally printed cardiac models from different breeds of dogs are effective learning tools. They helped students to better understand the relevant spatial relationship and cardiac morphology and to compare this anatomy with the radiographic image. Models are provided in 3D PDF and STL files for download.