Microphthalmia
Also known as: Mikrophthalmie · Small eye syndrome · Ocular dysgenesis · Zwergaugigkeit · Microphthalmie · …
Overview
What it is
Microphthalmia is a congenital developmental disorder of the visual system where one or both of a dog's eyeballs are abnormally small. This structural defect occurs during embryonic development and is often accompanied by other eye abnormalities, such as cataracts, which are cloudy areas in the lens of the eye. Because the eyeball itself is underdeveloped, the surrounding eyelids may also appear droopy or misaligned.
How it presents
This condition is typically noticeable as soon as a puppy opens its eyes, usually around two weeks of age, revealing eyes that look abnormally small and set deep within the sockets. Owners may also observe vision problems, ranging from mild clumsiness in unfamiliar environments to complete blindness.
Treatment
There is no cure to make the eye grow to normal size, but secondary issues like inflammation can be managed medically, or the eye can be surgically removed if it causes chronic pain. Treatment and surgical management typically cost between €300 and €2,500 depending on the severity. This is generally a one-time surgical expense or a manageable lifelong care routine.
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
24 of 24 breeds
AkitaAlso recommended
Australian ShepherdAlso recommended
BeagleAlso recommended
Border CollieAlso recommended
BordoodleAlso recommended
BorzoiAlso recommended
CavachonAlso recommended
Cavalier King Charles SpanielAlso recommended
CavapooAlso recommended
ChiweenieAlso recommended
DachshundAlso recommended
DobermannAlso recommended
DoxiepooAlso recommended
Irish Soft Coated Wheaten TerrierAlso recommended
Miniature SchnauzerAlso recommended
Portuguese Water DogAlso recommended
PuggleAlso recommended
Shetland SheepdogAlso recommended
WhoodleAlso recommended
DalmatianOptional
Great DaneOptional
Miniature PoodleOptional
Old English SheepdogOptional
Saint BernardOptional
Why is this linked to extreme breeding?
This condition can be tied to a trait dogs are bred for. These pages explain how it arises, which breeds are affected and how to recognize dogs bred for health.
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment costs. Actual costs depend on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked questions
What is Microphthalmia?
Microphthalmia is a congenital developmental disorder of the visual system where one or both of a dog's eyeballs are abnormally small. This structural defect occurs during embryonic development and is often accompanied by other eye abnormalities, such as cataracts, which are cloudy areas in the lens of the eye. Because the eyeball itself is underdeveloped, the surrounding eyelids may also appear droopy or misaligned.
How is Microphthalmia tested?
Tests currently in our database: ECVO Augenuntersuchung (DOK).
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Akita, Australian Shepherd, Beagle, Border Collie, Bordoodle, Borzoi, Cavachon, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.