Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze the prevalence
and the incidence of hereditary cataract and progressive
retinal atrophy (PRA) in the Entlebucher Mountaindog
(EMD) and to evaluate possible changes over
time. In addition, the infl uence of selective breeding
programs and DNA-testing for PRA was also investigated.
Data of eye certifi cations for hereditary eye diseases
was used. Between 1999 and 2009 a total of 798
ocular examinations were carried out in 285 EMD.
20.4 % had cataracts and 69 % of these were of the
posterior polar type. PRA was diagnosed in 6.3 % of
the dogs. Cataracts were diagnosed at 5.24 ± 2.71 years
(mean ± standard error), while PRA was diagnosed at
4.93 ± 1.32 years of age. The incidence of PRA and
cataract showed a decreasing trend (p-value < 0.2)
without being signifi cant.
Keywords: Entlebucher Mountaindog, hereditary eye
disease, cataract, progressive retinal atrophy