Rod-Cone Dysplasia 1a

Body function:

Eyes

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Rod-cone dysplasia 1a (RCD1a) is a late-onset inherited eye disorder that primarily affects Sloughi dogs. This form of progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) results from a mutation in the PDE6B gene, causing degeneration of rod and cone cells in the eye. To be affected, dogs must inherit two copies of the gene mutation

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List of affected breeds:

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

Sloughi

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?

This condition has no treatment, but dogs can still maintain a high quality of life. Pet parents will need to keep their homes simple to navigate and help their dogs avoid obstacles or dangers. Blocking access to potential hazards like stairs or pools ensures safety. Dogs with this condition can lead happy, fulfilling lives despite their visual impairment.

Symptoms

The symptoms of RCD1a typically manifest when affected Sloughis are around 2-3 years old. Initial signs include difficulty seeing in low light conditions, loss of peripheral vision, and hesitation in unfamiliar or dimly lit conditions. As the disease progresses over the years, dogs experience a gradual loss of night vision and increasing visual deficits in bright light.

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