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
23 of 23 breeds
Basset Fauve de BretagneRecommended standard
BriardRecommended standard
Chow ChowRecommended standard
Dutch Shepherd (Longhair)Recommended standard
Dutch Shepherd (Wire-Haired)Recommended standard
German HoundRecommended standard
Griffon Fauve de BretagneRecommended standard
JagdterrierRecommended standard
Korean JindoRecommended standard
Norwegian BuhundRecommended standard
Smooth-haired DachshundRecommended standard
Tibetan SpanielRecommended standard
Wire-haired DachshundRecommended standard
BeauceronAlso recommended
Berger PicardAlso recommended
Long-haired DachshundAlso recommended
MalteseAlso recommended
MorkieAlso recommended
Rhodesian RidgebackAlso recommended
Staffordshire Bull TerrierAlso recommended
Westphalian DachsbrackeAlso recommended
Dutch Shepherd (Shorthair)Optional
Old English SheepdogOptional
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment costs. Actual costs depend on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked questions
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.