Border Collie Eye Health: Conditions and Care

Border Collies rely heavily on their vision for herding, playing, and connecting with their humans. Here's what you need to know about keeping their eyes healthy.

Common Eye Conditions

Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)

A genetic condition that affects eye development:

• Present at birth
• Severity ranges from mild to causing blindness
• DNA testing available
• Responsible breeders test for this

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

• Gradual vision loss
• Usually begins with night blindness
• No cure, but dogs adapt well
• Genetic testing available

Cataracts

• Clouding of the lens
• Can be hereditary or age-related
• Surgery may restore vision
• Watch for cloudiness in the eye

Pannus (Chronic Superficial Keratitis)

• Immune-mediated condition
• More common in high-altitude areas
• Causes pink/red film over the eye
• Manageable with medication

Signs of Eye Problems

• Cloudiness or color changes
• Excessive tearing or discharge
• Redness or inflammation
• Squinting or pawing at eyes
• Bumping into things
• Reluctance to catch toys

Preventive Care

Regular Vet Checks

• Annual eye exams
• Report changes immediately

Protection

• Avoid direct face spraying with hose
• Consider dog goggles for working dogs
• Keep car windows up or use crates

Cleaning

• Gently wipe around eyes daily
• Remove crusty buildup
• Use dog-safe eye wash if needed

Genetic Testing

Before breeding or purchasing:

• Ask for CEA/CH DNA results
• Request PRA-rcd1 testing
• OFA or CERF eye certifications

If Vision Is Lost

Border Collies adapt remarkably well:

• Keep furniture in consistent places
• Use scent markers
• Maintain verbal communication
• Their other senses compensate beautifully