Details about the disease
In the Shar Pei, both POAG and PLL appear to be caused by the same mutation. Primary glaucoma is a painful and blinding disease associated with high pressure inside the eye. In POAG/PLL, glaucoma results from reduced drainage of fluid from the eye, causing a build-up of pressure which then leads to pain and blindness.
Clinical signs
Most dogs become affected at approximately 4-6 years of age. The eyes become enlarged and the lens of the eye becomes wobbly and can even fall out of its normal position.
How is it inherited?
The disease is described as an autosomal-recessive condition. This means that a dog must inherit two copies of an abnormal gene (one from its mother and one from its father) before its health is affected. A dog that inherits only one copy of the abnormal gene (from its mother or its father) will have no signs of the disease, but will be a carrier and may pass the gene on to any offspring.
Which laboratories test for this condition?
A list of laboratories that test for POAG/PLL can be found below.
Laboratories that send a copy of your dog's results straight to The Kennel Club, so you don't have to.
| Laboratories | Contact details |
|---|---|
| AHT (UK) | The AHT closed down on 31 July and no longer offers this test. Web: www.aht.org.uk |
| Laboklin (UK) | Phone: 0161 282 3066 Email: Laboklin Web: www.laboklin.co.uk |
| Pet Genetics Lab (UK) | Phone: 01624 679 720 Email: Pet Genetics Lab Web: www.petgeneticslab.co.uk |
Where will your dog's results be published?
DNA test results from these laboratories are sent directly to The Kennel Club and are recorded on to the dog's record in the registration database, and are published:
- in the next available Breed Records Supplement
- on our Health Test Results Finder
How to responsibly breed from your DNA-tested dog
If, once your dog is DNA tested, you would like to find out what their DNA test results mean, or how to select the right mate to avoid producing affected puppies, then please read our breeding advice and DNA testing information.
How to find out if a potential mate has been DNA tested
The Kennel Club’s Health Test Results Finder allows you to find the results of DNA tests carried out as part of The Kennel Club's official DNA testing schemes for any dog on The Kennel Club’s Breed Register.