Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is a parent Health Watch page. It explains the larger condition family, then points owners to the specific subtype pages that carry different genetics, signs, testing needs, and owner expectations.

Breeds Affected: Can affect many breeds. Higher-risk examples include: Australian Cattle Dog; Australian Shepherd; Cocker Spaniel; Dachshund; English Springer Spaniel; Labrador Retriever; Miniature Schnauzer; Papillon; Poodle; Tibetan Terrier.

Breed Risk Note: This is not a complete breed list. PRA is a whole family of inherited retinal diseases, and the relevant genetic test depends on the breed and variant, because naturally blindness needed subcategories.

The Idiot-Proof Explanation

PRA is inherited eye degeneration. The retina slowly loses function, usually starting with night vision, then daytime vision, and eventually the dog may go blind. The eye can look normal to an owner early on, which is exactly why waiting for obvious blindness is a terrible screening plan.

However, the exact subtype still matters. One label can hide very different inheritance patterns, screening options, severity, cost, and long-term care. Because of that, breed pages should use the most specific supported condition instead of stopping at the umbrella term.

Subtype Pages

Use these pages when the breed evidence supports a specific form:

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