A retrospective evaluation of congenital ocular defects in Australian Shepherd dogs in Australia.

OBJECTIVE

A retrospective survey of ocular defects in Australian Shepherd dogs was conducted following concerns raised by breeders and owners in Australia. This is the first known such study conducted for this breed.

RESULTS

Data from this survey indicate that persistent hyaloid remnants (PHR) were the most common eye defect noted in the Australian Shepherd. Collie eye anomaly (CEA) is the second most common defect noted by veterinary ophthalmologists in the breed in Australia, and extra eyelashes (ectopic cilia/distichia) the third most common.

CONCLUSIONS

The data also support the hypothesis that PHR may be inherited in this breed. Further investigation is needed to reveal the status of PHR in this breed.