Retinal Dysplasia in Dogs: Causes, Breeds & Management

Retinal dysplasia in dogs is an eye condition causing abnormal clumps or folds, called “rosettes,” to form in the retina’s sensitive tissue. Usually inherited genetically, this condition affects a variety of popular dog breeds in the UK. While it can impair vision, retinal dysplasia is painless and non-progressive, meaning it does not worsen over time.

Learn more about retinal dysplasia’s causes, the types affecting dogs, breeds most at risk, and how to manage this condition responsibly.

What causes retinal dysplasia in dogs?

The retina is made up of two layers that should develop together to form a healthy visual surface. Retinal dysplasia occurs when these layers fail to develop correctly, creating folds or creases in the retina.

Most cases are hereditary and passed down through specific breed lines. Other causes include vitamin A deficiency, eye trauma, and viral infections like canine herpesvirus, which can affect puppies if the mother is infected during pregnancy.

The types of retinal dysplasia in dogs

• Focal or multifocal retinal dysplasia: Small folds or multiple spots in the retinal tissue. These may lessen as puppies mature but can cause blind spots.
• Geographic retinal dysplasia: Irregular, horseshoe-shaped lesions causing more serious vision impairments. Unlike focal lesions, geographic lesions do not improve with age.
• Complete retinal dysplasia with detachment: The most severe form causing blindness, often accompanied by other eye conditions like cataracts or glaucoma.

Breeds most at risk of retinal dysplasia

Retinal dysplasia is most commonly inherited, with certain UK breeds exhibiting predisposition. Responsible breeders use DNA testing to minimise breeding dogs with this condition. Breeds commonly affected include:

• Sealyham Terrier puppies: Typically show complete retinal dysplasia.
• Bedlington Terrier puppies: Known for complete retinal dysplasia.
• Beagle puppies: Focal or multifocal forms.
• Rottweiler puppies: Often have focal or multifocal dysplasia.
• Springer Spaniel puppies: Can have focal, multifocal, or geographic dysplasia.
• Cocker Spaniel puppies: Usually focal or multifocal.
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppies: Geographic, complete detachment, or multifocal.
• Labrador Retriever puppies: Any form, sometimes linked to skeletal defects.
• Samoyed puppies: Complete retinal dysplasia, sometimes with skeletal issues.
• Yorkshire Terrier puppies: Usually focal or multifocal.

Signs and diagnosis of retinal dysplasia

Retinal dysplasia usually shows no obvious signs easily seen by owners. Dogs might show signs of impaired vision such as clumsiness, bumping into objects, or hesitance when navigating stairs or unfamiliar environments.

Definitive diagnosis requires an examination by a veterinary ophthalmologist using special instruments like an otoscope. For breeds with genetic predispositions, DNA tests can help identify carriers before breeding.

Management and breeding considerations

There is currently no cure or treatment to reverse retinal dysplasia. Management focuses on helping dogs adjust to any vision loss, which is usually stable and non-progressive.

Dogs affected by retinal dysplasia should never be used for breeding to prevent passing the condition to future generations. Responsible breeding practices and health screening are key to reducing the incidence of retinal dysplasia.

Many dogs live happy, fulfilling lives with retinal dysplasia when provided with a stable, safe environment and regular veterinary care.

Frequently Asked Question: Can dogs with retinal dysplasia live normal lives?

Quick Answer: Yes, most dogs with retinal dysplasia live full, happy lives. Their vision impairment is stable, and they often adapt well to their environment with owner support.

Although vision loss may occur to varying degrees depending on the type, retinal dysplasia does not worsen over time. Owners can help by making homes safe and providing support when introducing new surroundings. Regular veterinary check-ups are important to monitor any additional age-related eye conditions.

Retinal dysplasia is a genetic condition, so ethical breeding is essential to reduce its prevalence. Always seek puppies from reputable breeders who conduct health screenings.