Cone Degeneration (CD) - German Shepherd Dog

Cone Degeneration or Achromatopsia (ACHM) is a congenital retinal disorder and can vary among affected dogs by severity. The disorder manifests in poor ability of the eye to distinguish between different shapes and the details of objects at a given distance, pendular nystagmus, impaired or complete colour blindness and fear of light (light sensitivity). Loss of vision under well-lit conditions with a complete loss can occur at 8-10 weeks of age. ACHM develops due to genetic defects which results in complete loss of cone function and activity of ion channel which is a key mediator in signal transduction in retinal receptors. The disease has been identified in humans but also in German Shephard and Labrador Retriever. Clinical ophthalmic examination does not necessarily confirm the ACHM, therefore a genetic test needs to be done for disease confirmation.

Inheritance: autosomal recessive

Mutation: CNGA3 gene

Genetic test: The method used for testing is extremely accurate and allows complete differentiation between affected animals, carriers and healthy dogs. Testing can be done at any age.