The Cocker Spaniel is one of the most popular dog breeds in the UK and so it is unsurprising that a number of inherited diseases have been reported over the years in this breed including Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), Retinal Dysplasia (RD) and Retinopathy with Vitamin E Deficiency (RVED). A DNA test for PRA (prcd) has been available for a long time and so this disease is now, fortunately, very rare in this breed. Very recently, the Canine Genetics Centre has also solved the cause of RVED in this breed and so, with the use of DNA testing, this disease should be easy to eradicate in a few generations.
Now, the team is directing its attention to another eye disease in this breed – Multiocular Defect (MOD) – with the aim of elucidating the cause of this disease too. In MOD, the puppy’s eye (or eyes) do not develop normally. They are abnormally small (microphthalmia) and are affected by cataracts. These eyes are often blind and may develop glaucoma and have to be removed.
The Canine Genetics Centre is again collaborating with James Oliver, Head of Ophthalmology at DWR Veterinary Specialists to tackle MOD. James says “Veterinary Ophthalmologists see MOD in the Cocker Spaniel fairly frequently. This is unlikely because MOD is very common in the breed but just a reflection on how popular this lovely breed is. Affected eyes tend to be blind due to cataracts. We can often restore sight with a cataract operation, but this is expensive and not without complication. Many eyes sadly need to be removed on welfare grounds because they become painful.”
The team is now actively collecting DNA samples from Cocker Spaniels confirmed with MOD and has applied for funding to perform a research project into the genetics of the condition. Hopefully, we will be able to report on our progress as early as next year. If you own a Cocker Spaniel with MOD and would like to help the research by submitting a DNA sample please visit Sample Request Form to request a cheek swab sample pack and please remember that all the CGC’s research is undertaken in complete confidence.
If you would like to make a donation to support the Canine Genetics Centre’s research, all of which is aimed at improving the health of dogs, then please consider becoming a Friend of the CGC.
