Glossary

Progressive retinal atrophy

A group of inherited diseases in which the retina slowly degenerates, causing night blindness first and then total blindness, without pain.

Also called: PRA, inherited retinal degeneration, night blindness in dogs, rcd, prcd

Progressive retinal atrophy, or PRA, refers to inherited diseases in which the light-sensing cells at the back of the eye gradually die. It is not painful and the eye often looks normal, so owners may notice only that the dog hesitates in dim light, bumps into furniture at night or loses confidence outdoors. Sight loss slowly spreads to daytime, and many dogs adapt very well in familiar homes.

Many breeds carry their own form, among them the Poodle, Cocker Spaniel, Labrador Retriever and Irish Setter. Because it is inherited, DNA tests and eye exams by a veterinary ophthalmologist let breeders avoid pairing carriers.

There is no cure. A cataract can appear later in PRA dogs. A vet can confirm the cause of any vision change.

Last reviewed November 8, 2026

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Related terms

Cataracts Cloudiness in the lens of the eye that blocks light and can lead to blindness, often inherited or linked to diabetes. Glaucoma Raised pressure inside the eye that damages the optic nerve; it is painful and can cause permanent blindness within hours or days.