08/02/2026
BOXER CARDIOMYOPATHY (ARVC)
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
🐾ARVC1 and ARVC2: What every
Boxer Family Need to Know
A simple, clear guide from Holly’s Boxers of Rochester
At Holly’s Boxers of Rochester, the health and longevity of our dogs is the foundation of everything we do. Because Boxers can be predisposed to a heart condition called
ARVC
(Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy),we believe in full transparency and education for every family who brings home one of our puppies.
This guide explains ARVC in a way that's easy to understand — what it is, what the genetic tests mean, and how our breeding program uses science based practices to protect the breed.
What Is ARVC?
ARVC is an adult-onset heart condition that affects the electrical rhythm of the heart.
Many dogs with ARVC live normal, happy lives for years before showing any signs, and some never show symptoms at all.
ARVC typically progresses slowly and may include:
* Irregular heartbeats
* Fainting episodes
* Exercise intolerance
* In rare cases, sudden cardiac events
Because it's a late-onset condition, a dog can appear perfectly healthy for years before any changes are detectable.
Two Known Genetic Mutations: ARVC1 and ARVC2
There are currently two identified genetic mutations linked to ARVC in Boxers:
ARVC1 (STRN gene)
The first and most widely recognized mutation.
Two Known Genetic Mutations: ARVC1 and ARVC2
There are currently two identified genetic mutations linked to ARVC in Boxers:
ARVC1 (STRN gene)
The first and most widely recognized mutation.
ARVC2 (FOS gene)
A newer mutation that may contribute to risk in some dogs.
It's important to understand that these mutations indicate risk — not a diagnosis.
A dog can carry one or both mutations and never develop clinical disease. Likewise, a dog can test negative and still develop ARVC from other genetic factors not yet identified.
This is why Holly’s Boxers of Rochester uses both genetic testing AND comprehensive cardiac testing for our breeding dogs.
Important for Puppy Buyers:
Carrier x Clear Breedings Are SAFE
At Holly’s Boxers, we sometimes breed a carrier to a clear dog. This is intentional, ethical, and supported by genetic science.
Here's why:
Carrier × Clear = Healthy Puppies
* Puppies cannot inherit two copies of the mutation from this pairing.
* Puppies may be carriers, but carriers do not develop ARVC from that single gene.
* This type of pairing reduces risk while protecting the genetic diversity of the Boxer breed.
Eliminating all carriers from breeding would shrink the gene pool dramatically and create new health problems. Responsible breeders
— including us — use thoughtful pairings to balance health, genetics, and breed preservation.
Why We Still Perform Cardiac Testing
Because ARVC is complex and influenced by more than just one or two genes, ongoing cardiac evaluation is essential for responsible breeding and longterm health monitoring.
Why We Still Perform Cardiac Testing
Because ARVC is complex and influenced by more than just one or two genes, ongoing cardiac evaluation is essential for responsible breeding and longterm health monitoring.
At Holly’s Boxers of Rochester, every breeding dog receives:
* Comprehensive cardiac testing, including echocardiogram and Holter monitoring
* Genetic testing for ARVC1 and ARVC2 and�DM
* Thyroid panel
* Hip and elbow certification
* Additional health screenings as needed
This layered approach ensures we are evaluating both the structure and electrical function of the heart, giving us the clearest possible picture of each dog's cardiac health.
What This Means for Holly’s Boxers of Rochester Puppy Families
When you bring home a Holly’s Boxer puppy, you can feel confident knowing:
* Your puppy comes from healthtested parents
* Any carrier status is fully disclosed
* Carrier puppies are healthy, safe, and not at risk of developing ARVC from that gene
Our goal is not just to produce beautiful Boxers—but Boxers with exceptional health, temperament, and longevity.
❤️ Our Commitment
Holly’s Boxers of Rochester is built on a foundation of:
* Science based breeding
* Transparency
* Lifelong support
* A deep love for the Boxer breed
ARVC is just one piece of the health puzzle, and we take it seriously. By combining genetic testing, cardiac screening, and responsible pairings, we continue to improve the breed while giving families the healthy, joyful companions they deserve.
