Pannus is an immune-mediated eye condition common in German Shepherds and other breeds that causes corneal pigmentation and progressive vision loss if untreated. Lifelong management is essential for welfare.
Pannus causes significant welfare impact through pain, photophobia, and progressive vision loss. The condition is manageable but requires lifelong, consistent treatment — lapses in medication lead to rapid progression. Topical cyclosporine or tacrolimus eye drops are first-line therapy and must be applied daily or twice daily indefinitely. Affected dogs should wear UV-protective goggles (Rex Specs or similar) during outdoor activity, particularly at altitude or in snow. Owners must be counselled on the lifelong commitment before acquiring at-risk breeds. Regular veterinary ophthalmology rechecks every 3–6 months are necessary to adjust treatment dosing. Dogs with advanced bilateral corneal opacity have profoundly reduced quality of life and require environmental modification to navigate safely.