Tibetan Spaniels are generally found to be a health breed, the main condition to be aware of is PRA – Progressive Retinal Atrophy, a hereditary condition that can affect several breeds.
The retina converts light that enters the eye, into electrical signals, the optic nerve sends these to the brain which creates the images seen. PRA is effectively the ‘wasting away’ of the retina and as such will result in visual impairment and ultimately sight loss in the Tibetan Spaniel. Onset of the condition is normally later in life, though there have been known cases where the condition has been seen in a younger dog. The condition is ‘progressive’ which means it will get worse over time, for example, some dogs may only be affected at night to start with, this will progress to impairment during the day; cataracts may also develop, though secondary to PRA. Currently there are no known treatments to PRA.
There is a DNA test available for dogs, this will check if they are a carrier of the PRA gene, or if they are clear; this is a recommended test, to ensure the protection of the breed through breeding. DNA tests are used throughout the breed to ensure breeders and potential new owners are aware of the risks of their Tibetan Spaniel developing PRA.
PRA is only prevelant when the dog inherits two (2) copies of the abnormal gene, in simple terms, both the Sire and the Dam carry the abnormal gene. Any dog that only inherits one (1) copy of the gene, will have no signs of the condition, but they will be a ‘carrier’ and can potentially pass on the gene to their offspring.
To find out more about PRA and to book a DNA test, please visit the Kennel Club website – click here. There are three (3) ways to obtain a DNA test where the results will be sent directly to the Kennel Club, and one (1) alternative, where it is the owner’s responsibility to report the results to the Kennel Club.
Results sent directly to the Kennel Club
– Kennel Club DNA Tests – click here
– Animal Diagnostics – click here
– Canine Genetic Testing – click here
Owner to send the results to the Kennel Club
– My Dog DNA – click here
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