Corneal ulcerative disease in dogs under primary veterinary care in England: epidemiology and clinical management

A Vet Times article provides a lay-reader overview of the study, commenting on the relationship of current popularity of several of the breeds studied and future problems for young dogs that may become affected by this painful condition. Comments on on responsible breeding choices and purchase/ownership management decisions are provided by Caroline Kisko, secretary for The Kennel Club: “With some breeds having a markedly higher risk than others of developing corneal ulcerative disease, this research will enable breeders to make responsible breeding choices to protect the eye health of their dogs.

“It will also help to highlight what puppy buyers and existing owners need to be looking out for if they own or wish to own one of the most affected breeds.”

The Study is available on Biomed Central -- Canine Genetics and Epidemiology

"Of 104,233 dogs attending 110 primary-care practices in England, there were 834 dogs with corneal ulceration (0.80% overall). The breeds with the highest prevalence were the Pug (5.42% of the breed affected), Boxer (4.98%), Shih Tzu (3.45%), Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (2.49%) and Bulldog (2.41%). Pain associated with the disease was recorded in 46.2% of cases, at least one painkiller was dispensed or administered in 54.6, and 17.0% underwent surgery."

A podcast about the study is available at BioMed Central.