Companion Animals

Hereditary Eye Diseases in Dogs: Welfare and Breeding Reform

Welfare guide to inherited eye conditions in dogs -- what breeding reform can achieve for future generations.

Key Facts

Multiple hereditary eye conditions affect dogs -- including Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), hereditary cataract, and Collie Eye Anomaly
PRA causes progressive painless blindness -- welfare impact is primarily through disability and disorientation
Hereditary cataract causes painful visual impairment that requires surgical management
DNA tests are available for many hereditary eye conditions allowing breeders to make informed decisions
The British Veterinary Association eye scheme provides health testing certificates for breeding dogs
Breeding from affected or carrier-to-carrier pairings perpetuates preventable disease across generations
Some breed clubs have made eye testing mandatory -- reducing disease prevalence significantly
Dogs affected by hereditary eye disease deserve the same welfare consideration as other chronically affected animals

Welfare Significance

Hereditary eye disease in dogs is a welfare problem that exists at two levels -- the suffering of affected individuals and the perpetuation of disease through unregulated breeding. DNA testing and health scheme participation enable breeders to eliminate many conditions within generations. Breed clubs and buyers who demand health tested parents are the most powerful welfare force.

What You Can Do

Only buy puppies from breeders who health test for breed-relevant hereditary eye conditions
Support breed clubs that make eye testing mandatory for breeding animals
Ask to see current BVA eye scheme certificates for both parents before purchasing a puppy
Donate to research into new DNA tests for hereditary eye conditions in dogs