Corneal Dystrophy in Dogs

Category: Eye
Inheritance: Autosomal recessive
Breeds documented: 8
Published sources: 6

Overview

Cloudy white or gray areas can develop when the cornea, the clear front window of the eye, is affected by corneal dystrophy. Different forms involve different layers of the cornea, and both eyes are usually involved. Forms affecting the middle layers often involve fatty deposits and cause little discomfort. Forms affecting the inner cell layer can let fluid build up in the cornea, sometimes leading to painful surface sores and impaired vision.

Signs to watch for

White or gray spots in the clear front of the eye
Haze or cloudiness affecting both eyes
Squinting and watering if surface sores develop
Difficulty seeing when corneal changes interfere with vision

Timing depends on the form; inner-layer dystrophy mainly affects older dogs.

When to get help Arrange a prompt vet visit for new eye cloudiness, squinting, or changes in vision.

Diagnosis and tests

The vet examines the cornea under bright light and magnification to identify which layers are affected. Tear testing and a special dye can help check for accompanying dry eye or surface sores. The examination also helps distinguish dystrophy from corneal degeneration, which may be linked to another eye problem or a whole-body illness.

Breeds with documented risk

8 breeds

By breed size

3 Small
3 Medium
2 Large

Labrador RetrieverLarge · Sporting Group
Siberian HuskyMedium · Working Group
Bichon FriseSmall · Non-Sporting Group
CavapooSmall
Gerberian ShepskyMedium
Akita InuMedium · Miscellaneous Class
SheepadoodleLarge
ShichonSmall

Inheritance

Autosomal recessive
Labrador Retriever
A dog is affected only if it inherits two copies of the gene variant, one from each parent. A dog with one copy is a carrier: usually healthy, but able to pass the variant on. When two carriers are bred, on average one puppy in four is affected. A DNA test can tell clear, carrier and at-risk dogs apart.
As stated by OMIA

We've gathered what published sources say about this condition, so you can talk it through with your vet. It isn't veterinary advice: you and your vet know your dog best.