Corneal Dystrophy in dogs

Species: Dog
Condition: Corneal Dystrophy
Organ System: Nervous/sensory

Corneal dystrophy can be either epithelial (affecting the outer layer of the cornea) or endothelial (affecting the lining of the cornea). The cornea is the transparent layer forming the front of the eye. In epithelial corneal dystrophy there are white fatty deposits in the outer layers of the eye. This is thought to be connected to problems metabolizing fatty acids in the cornea. These deposits are generally harmless. In endothelial corneal dystrophy, fluid builds up in the cornea, causing the eye to appear blue and potentially leading to persistent, shallow corneal ulcers. This can affect vision but can be managed with medication.

Breeds exposed to Corneal Dystrophy – Research Reference
Chow Chow Cross – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
American Water Spaniel Cross – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Poodle – Toy Cross – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Miniature Poodle Cross – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Pomeranian Cross – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
American Water Spaniel – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Chow Chow – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Keeshond – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Miniature Poodle – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Pomeranian – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Poodle – Toy – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Samoyed – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Cavoodle – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Samoyed Cross – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Keeshond Cross – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)

Disease Author
Dr Merliza Cabriles, Professor of Veterinary Medicine

To learn more about Corneal Dystrophy or any other condition we invite you to search this website. Even better, pick up the phone and call your vet. Your vet knows your pet better than anyone else and is a fountain of information.