The number one thing you can do to keep your dog’s eyes healthy is monitor the eyes for any changes or signs of discomfort. Many eye conditions can deteriorate rapidly and lead to blindness, so if you notice anything out of the ordinary it’s best to get it checked out by your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Any dog is at risk for eye disease and blindness but some purebred dogs have more of a genetic risk for certain eye diseases, including blindness. If you are purchasing a purebred dog such as a poodle it is recommended that the dog and its parents have a certifying examination by a veterinary ophthalmologist prior to purchase. Poodles are historically known for getting a disease called progressive retinal atrophy which will lead to blindness. Examination and possibly genetic testing by a veterinary ophthalmologist can help determine whether your poodle is at risk for this disease.