Home / Health / Eyes and progressive retinal atrophy

Eyes and progressive retinal atrophy in dachshunds

Progressive retinal atrophy is an inherited condition that causes the gradual degeneration of the retina, eventually leading to blindness. Dachshunds, particularly miniature varieties, carry genetic mutations for forms of this disease, making routine screening and early recognition essential for managing changes in vision.

Signs to look for

Reluctance to go into dark rooms or outside at night
Increased shine or reflection from the eyes in dim light
Bumping into furniture or hesitation on familiar steps
Dilated pupils that react slowly to light
Uncharacteristic nervousness in unfamiliar surroundings

What you can do at home

Keep home furniture layouts consistent to prevent collisions
Use nightlights in hallways and near feeding stations
Clear floor clutter, trailing cables and low obstacles
Supervise access to open staircases, balconies and garden drops

Call the vet when

Sudden onset of apparent blindness or severe disorientation
Signs of eye pain such as squinting, pawing or redness
Cloudiness or visible changes in the pupil appearance
Noticing a gradual reduction in night vision or confidence in dim light

Prevention

Choose puppies from parents with clear DNA test certificates
Arrange annual veterinary eye examinations
Support overall eye health with a balanced, complete diet

Why dachshunds in particular

Miniature dachshunds, particularly the miniature longhaired variety, have documented genetic predispositions to specific inherited retinal dystrophies. DNA testing before breeding helps reduce the prevalence of these mutations across bloodlines.

Sources

Royal Veterinary College canine health pages (general reference), RVC
Cornell Riney Canine Health Center (general reference), Cornell University

General information in our own words. It does not replace advice from your own vet.

Facts are cited and rewritten in our own words. All sources and how we use them.