Generalised Progressive Retinal Atrophy

What is generalised progressive retinal atrophy?

Generalised progressive retinal atrophy is an inherited degenerative condition of the retina — the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. The photoreceptor cells (rods and cones) gradually deteriorate and die, leading to progressive loss of vision that cannot be halted or reversed.

The condition affects both eyes simultaneously. The earliest clinical sign is usually difficulty seeing in low light (night blindness), as the rod photoreceptors responsible for dim-light vision are typically affected first. As the disease progresses, day vision is also lost, eventually resulting in complete blindness. The rate of progression varies considerably between breeds and between individual dogs.

Which breeds are affected?

gPRA is certified under the BVA/KC/ISDS Eye Scheme in a large number of breeds. The age at which ophthalmoscopic signs first become detectable varies significantly, which is why the recommended age for first testing differs between breeds. Breeds currently certified include the Australian Cattle Dog, Rough Collie, Miniature Long-Haired Dachshund, Elkhound, Finnish Lapphund, Glen of Imaal Terrier, Gordon Setter, Irish Setter, Irish Wolfhound, Lhasa Apso, Miniature Schnauzer, Papillon, Miniature Poodle, Toy Poodle, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, American Cocker Spaniel, Cocker Spaniel, English Springer Spaniel, Swedish Vallhund, Tibetan Spaniel, Tibetan Terrier, and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi, among others.

DNA testing and clinical examination

For several breeds, DNA tests are now available that can identify whether a dog is clear, a carrier, or genetically affected — often before any clinical signs are present. DNA testing is a valuable tool, particularly for identifying carriers who will never show clinical signs themselves but can pass the mutation to their offspring.

However, DNA testing does not replace clinical eye examination under the BVA scheme. The two are complementary. Clinical examination can detect signs that DNA tests cannot predict (such as secondary cataract) and is required for formal certification under the scheme. Where a DNA test is available for your breed, the current BVA guidance should be followed regarding which combination of tests is recommended.

When should my dog be tested?

The recommended age for a first examination varies by breed. As a general rule, testing before first breeding and annually thereafter is recommended for any breed on the gPRA schedule. Your breed's specific testing interval is listed on the individual breed page. All dogs used for breeding should have a final examination at or after eight years of age to check for late-onset disease.

What to expect at the examination

The examination requires pupil dilation using tropicamide drops, which take 15-30 minutes to work. Your dog's eyes will be light-sensitive for several hours afterwards, so plan for a comfortable journey home. The examination itself is non-invasive and well tolerated. Results are recorded on the BVA certificate and, for Kennel Club registered dogs, submitted to the KC Health Test Results Finder.