Progressive Retinal Atrophy (Schapendoes)

Body function:

Eyes

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Generalized progressive retinal atrophy is a genetic eye disease. In Schapendoes dogs, it is caused by a mutation of the CCDC66 gene. The condition leads to the degeneration of the rods and cones in a dog’s retina, leading to night blindness and ultimately total blindness.

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List of affected breeds:

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

Schapendoes

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What does this mean for a dog with this trait?

There is no known cure for generalized progressive retinal atrophy. Dogs may be supported with increased light in low-light conditions and by eliminating potential hazards, such as access to stairs or dangerous objects.

Symptoms

Signs of generalized progressive retinal atrophy typically present between 2 and 5 years of age. Initially, dogs show signs of night blindness, like increased clumsiness and hesitation at night. On retinal exam, they also display an unusually reflective tapetum. Over time, affected dogs will show signs of total blindness.

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