Congenital blindness
Also known as: Angeborene Amaurose · Geburtsblindheit · Congenital sensory blindness · Angeborener Sehverlust
Overview
What it is
Congenital blindness is a severe or complete loss of vision present from birth, affecting the eyes and the neural pathways connected to the brain. It is caused by developmental abnormalities in key structures like the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, or the optic nerve. These structural defects prevent visual signals from being properly formed or transmitted.
How it presents
Signs are usually noticeable as soon as a puppy's eyes open, typically around two weeks of age. Owners may observe the puppy bumping into walls or furniture, hesitating in new environments, and failing to react to moving objects or light.
Treatment
This condition is incurable, but it is not painful and affected dogs can live high-quality lives. Expect lifetime costs of 200 to 1000 EUR, which primarily cover the initial diagnostic ECVO-DOK eye examination and safety adjustments to the home.
How it's tested
ECVO Augenuntersuchung (DOK)(ECVO-DOK)
Primary testEye examAugenuntersuchung durch ECVO-zertifizierten Augentierarzt (Dortmunder Kreis). Erkennt PRA, Katarakt, Entropium, CEA, MPP, RD u.a.
Issuing body: ECVO
Result scheme: Eye-ECVO
Affected breeds
22 of 22 breeds
Mandatory testBasset Fauve de Bretagne
Mandatory testBriard
Mandatory testChow Chow
Mandatory testDutch Shepherd (Longhair)
Mandatory testDutch Shepherd (Wire-Haired)
Mandatory testGerman Hound
Mandatory testGriffon Fauve de Bretagne
Mandatory testJagdterrier
Mandatory testKorean Jindo
Mandatory testNorwegian Buhund
Mandatory testSmooth-haired Dachshund
Mandatory testTibetan Spaniel
Mandatory testWire-haired Dachshund
RecommendedBeauceron
RecommendedBerger Picard
RecommendedLong-haired Dachshund
RecommendedMaltese
RecommendedRhodesian Ridgeback
RecommendedStaffordshire Bull Terrier
RecommendedWestphalian Dachsbracke
OptionalDutch Shepherd (Shorthair)
OptionalOld English Sheepdog
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Congenital blindness?
Congenital blindness is a severe or complete loss of vision present from birth, affecting the eyes and the neural pathways connected to the brain. It is caused by developmental abnormalities in key structures like the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, or the optic nerve. These structural defects prevent visual signals from being properly formed or transmitted.
How is Congenital blindness tested?
Tests currently in our database: ECVO Augenuntersuchung (DOK).
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Basset Fauve de Bretagne, Briard, Chow Chow, Dutch Shepherd (Longhair), Dutch Shepherd (Wire-Haired), German Hound, Griffon Fauve de Bretagne, Jagdterrier.