Different breeds are affected more frequently by various genetic and congenital (defects that are present at birth but may or may not be considered genetic) eye disorders. 

NOTE: Currently one catastrophic eye disorder in our breed has the potential to be eliminated! This disease is Progressive Retinal Atrophy, or 'PRA'. We now know the gene which causes PRA in Mastiffs. PRA causes blindness. All Mastiffs should be tested CLEAR of PRA before any breeding decisions are made!

In Mastiffs, entropian (inward turning of the eyelid), ectropian (outward turning of the eyelid), and PRA (progressive retinal retinal atrophy) are just three of many problems that can cause vision problem and/or blindness in Mastiffs. 

Breeders can reduce and, in some cases, totally eliminate the incidence of some of these disorders by breeding only dogs who have been screened for these conditions.

Eye exams must be performed by a veterinary ophthalmologist who reports findings to CERF which issues certificates and maintains a registry of all dogs tested.

Eye exams should be performed on BOTH sire and dam prior to breeding.  For more information about CERF exams and specific eye problems which Mastiffs can have, please refer to the following links.

• Anatomy Of The Normal Canine Eye

• Structure and Function of the Eye

• Eye Anatomy & Disease Information

• CERF (Canine Eye Registry Foundation) - For information about canine eye diseases and to search their database

• Eye Vet Information

• Animal Eye Care