Cone Degeneration(CD)
Also known as: Achromatopsie · Hemeralopie · Tagblindheit · Achromatopsia · Day Blindness · …
Overview
What it is
Cone degeneration is an inherited eye disorder where the specialized light-sensitive cells in the retina responsible for color and bright light vision, called cones, gradually break down. This deterioration specifically affects the dog's ability to see in daylight, while the rod cells, which handle low-light and night vision, remain completely healthy and functional.
How it presents
Symptoms typically become noticeable in puppies between 8 and 12 weeks of age, especially when they are outdoors in bright sunlight. Owners may observe their puppy squinting, showing extreme sensitivity to bright light, or bumping into objects during the day while navigating perfectly fine at night.
Treatment
There is no cure for this condition, but it is painless and can be managed with simple lifestyle adjustments, such as using protective UV goggles. Lifetime management costs generally range from 200 to 1000 EUR, which covers the initial veterinary eye exams and protective gear.
How it's tested
Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Labogen-Panel)
Primary testDNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Labogen / Laboklin) — bündelt alle relevanten Erbkrankheiten der Rasse in einem Test.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
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
Cone Degeneration (CD) / Achromatopsie DNA-Test(CD)
Primary testDNA testEin DNA-Test zum Nachweis der Mutation im CNGB3- oder CNGA3-Gen, die für die Fehlfunktion der Zapfenzellen und die daraus resultierende Tagblindheit verantwortlich ist.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Feragen-Panel)
DNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Feragen, Österreich) — gleiches Konzept wie Labogen.
Issuing body: Feragen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Embark Breed + Health Panel(Embark)
DNA testUS-Anbieter; 250+ genetische Erkrankungen + Abstammung. Anerkennung in DE/AT variiert je nach VDH-Verein.
Issuing body: Embark
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
MyDogDNA Panel(MyDogDNA)
DNA testGenoscoper-basiertes Panel (Mars Petcare). 200+ Erkrankungen + Rassenkomposition.
Issuing body: MyDogDNA
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Cone Degeneration?
Cone degeneration is an inherited eye disorder where the specialized light-sensitive cells in the retina responsible for color and bright light vision, called cones, gradually break down. This deterioration specifically affects the dog's ability to see in daylight, while the rod cells, which handle low-light and night vision, remain completely healthy and functional.
How is Cone Degeneration tested?
Tests currently in our database: Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), ECVO Augenuntersuchung (DOK), Cone Degeneration (CD) / Achromatopsie DNA-Test, Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Embark Breed + Health Panel, MyDogDNA Panel.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Danish-Swedish Farmdog, Miniature American Shepherd.

