Early-Onset Progressive Retinal Atrophy, (Discovered in the Spanish Water Dog)

Early-Onset Progressive Retinal Atrophy in Spanish Water Dogs is typically diagnosed before the age of 4 years, with initial clinical signs noted by owners around the ages of 2 and 3 years. However, the slowly progressive change in vision may not be obvious in some cases. Dogs affected by EOPRA show standard PRA clinical expression, such as initial hyper-reflectivity of the fundus (back surface of the eye) due to the thinning retina as photoreceptor cells die, followed by attenuation of blood vessels that feed the retina. Eventually, as more of the photoreceptors die, the affected dogs become completely blind.

Although this condition results in gradual vision loss, many dogs adapt remarkably well to the loss of vision. Owners may find that it is helpful to keep the dog's main environment as stable as possible (avoid moving furniture, etc.) to help them navigate as vision worsens. Some dogs may exhibit a tentativeness when introduced to unknown environments, especially in low light conditions, because of their compromised vision.

There are many responsibilities to consider when breeding dogs. Regardless of test results it is important that your dog is in good general health and that you are in a position to care for the puppies if new responsible owners are not found. For first time or novice breeders, advice can be found at most kennel club websites.

This disorder is autosomal recessive, meaning two copies of the variant are needed for a dog to be at an elevated risk for being diagnosed with the condition. A carrier dog with one copy of the Early-Onset Progressive Retinal Atrophy, (Discovered in the Spanish Water Dog) variant can be safely bred with a clear dog with no copies of the EOPRA, (Discovered in the Spanish Water Dog) variant. About half of the puppies will have one copy (carriers) and half will have no copies of the variant. Furthermore, a dog with two copies of the EOPRA, (Discovered in the Spanish Water Dog) variant can be safely bred with a clear dog. The resulting puppies will all be carriers. Puppies in a litter which is expected to contain carriers should be tested prior to breeding. Carrier to carrier matings are not advised as the resulting litter may contain affected puppies. Please note: It is possible that disorder signs similar to the ones associated with this EOPRA variant could develop due to a different genetic or clinical cause.