Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Body function:

Eyes

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Progressive retinal atrophy is a degenerative eye disease caused by a deletion mutation in the CNGB1 gene. This disease was originally discovered in Papillon and Phalène dogs, but can affect many breeds. It causes the slow degeneration of the retina, ultimately resulting in blindness. Both parents must be carriers of PRA for a litter to be affected.

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List of affected breeds:

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

Papillon, Phalene

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What does this mean for a dog with this trait?

There is no cure for progressive retinal atrophy. Dogs with worsening eyesight may be supported by increased lighting at night, minimized hazards and obstacles, and increased supervision.

Symptoms

Signs of progressive retinal atrophy typically appear around 6 years of age and begin with worsening night vision. Dogs may show increased clumsiness, tentativeness in unfamiliar environments, and trouble tracking objects at night. Overtime, daytime eyesight will worsen too, ultimately resulting in total blindness.

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