All dogs can have this disorder which is genetically passed to pups from their parents. It is rapidly progressive and results in total blindness but doesn't manifest itself until later in life. My almost 9 year old Lab has it and if it progresses as usual will be totally blind within one year. There may be some extension of that time period with specific canine anti-oxidents but it's not a sure thing.
There is DNA testing now available for the gene that will allow breeders to know if their dogs have it. It's not unlike hip dysplasia as it's a late in life onset and the dogs with the gene shouldn't be bred.
Buyers who are going to pay potentially thousands of dollars for a pure bred dog should do the research to see if it's in the line of dogs they are interested in.
There is DNA testing now available for the gene that will allow breeders to know if their dogs have it. It's not unlike hip dysplasia as it's a late in life onset and the dogs with the gene shouldn't be bred.
Buyers who are going to pay potentially thousands of dollars for a pure bred dog should do the research to see if it's in the line of dogs they are interested in.