Cone-Rod Dystrophy

Body function:

Eyes

In collaboration with

Cone-rod dystrophy is a genetic eye condition affecting Dachshund dogs due to a mutation in the NPHP4 gene. The condition causes the degeneration of rods, which help with low-light vision, and cones, which help with bright-light vision, in a dog’s retina. Cone-rod dystrophy ultimately leads to blindness.

In collaboration with

List of affected breeds:

Genetic research has linked this gene and condition in the following breeds:

Miniature Wirehaired Dachshund, Wirehaired Dachshund

A brown and white dog with floppy ears is looking up at the camera with a big smile and its tongue hanging out.

What does this mean for a dog with this trait?

There is no known cure for cone-rod dystrophy. In the initial stages of the disease, additional lighting at night may help. As blindness progresses, increased supervision is recommended. Potential dangers, like stairway access or other obstacles, should also be minimized.

Symptoms

Signs of cone-rod dystrophy may appear in the first year of life but may not be confirmed until 3 years of age due to the inability to conduct ophthalmic exams until that time. Dogs will first show signs of night blindness, like increased hesitation and clumsiness at night, then daytime blindness. Dogs are typically completely blind by 6 years of age.

200+ health condition screenings and counting

Like humans, the science surrounding canines is constantly evolving. The more we learn, the more we are able to make educated decisions when it comes to providing their care they deserve.

Explore conditions

Get even deeper insights with our
Breeds & Health kit

With tests for hundreds of breeds, behavioral traits, and health conditions, understanding your best friend has never been easier.

Note: A genetic test is not a diagnosis for disease. Consult any concerns with your vet.

Buy a kit