Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy, or ARVC, is an inherited condition that affects the muscles of the heart. ARVC is associated with sudden cardiac death and congestive heart failure. It is thought that these are a symptom of irregular heartbeats.
Currently, there is one known mutation that is highly associated with ARVC. Testing for the mutation is a helpful tool, however, it is important to note that this mutation is not necessarily definitive. There are other unknown mutations responsible for ARVC in a smaller percent of the population, so a negative result does not ensure that the dog will not be affected.