Are Border Collies Prone to Eye Problems?
Border Collies are renowned for their intelligence, agility, and boundless energy
These remarkable dogs have been bred for centuries to excel in herding livestock, making them one of the most capable working breeds
However, with their distinctive, beautiful eyes, Border Collies are also known to be prone to certain eye problems
In this article, we will delve into the various eye conditions that commonly affect Border Collies and discuss how to recognize, prevent, and treat these issues
It is essential to note that not all Border Collies will develop eye problems
However, the breed is genetically predisposed to certain hereditary conditions that can affect their vision
One of the most prevalent conditions in Border Collies is Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)
CEA is a congenital condition characterized by abnormal development of the eye's various structures, including the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels
It can range from mild to severe and is usually diagnosed during a routine eye examination
Symptoms of CEA can vary, depending on the severity of the condition
In mild cases, Border Collies may have no noticeable symptoms and can lead perfectly normal lives
However, in more severe cases, affected dogs may exhibit reduced vision or complete blindness
Other symptoms can include a reflective area in the back of the eye (known as the tapetal reflex) appearing abnormal, changes in the blood vessels' appearance, or other visible abnormalities within the eye
CEA is a hereditary condition caused by a recessive gene
Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that both parents of a Border Collie puppy are clear of the gene for CEA to avoid passing it on to future generations
Responsible breeders will conduct thorough genetic testing to minimize the risk of CEA and other hereditary conditions
Aside from CEA, Border Collies may also be prone to Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), an inherited condition that leads to gradual degeneration of the retina
PRA typically starts with night blindness, followed by a progressive loss of daytime vision