Cone degeneration (CD) is an autosomal recessive disease in dogs similar to human achromatopsia. The disease is characterized by day-blindness and absence of retinal cone function in adult dogs. The symptoms are only present in bright light, which means vision in dim light is normal. Affected dogs remain ophthalmoscopically normal through life because rod photoreceptors remain functionally and structurally unharmed. They develop day-blindness and photophobia around 8 to 12 weeks of age, when retinal development is normally completed in dogs.

Inheritance: autosomal recessive - read more

Mutation: CNGB3 gene

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

Disease control: read more

DNA test sample: EDTA whole blood (1.0 ml) or buccal swabs. Detailed information about sampling can be found here.