All forms of rcd are characterised by the initial loss of rods, the retinal cells that operate during night vision, followed by the degeneration of cones, the cells in the retina that are responsible for vision in bright light/daylight.
PRA(rcd2) is an autosomal recessive inherited condition.
Clinical effects of rcd2 have an early onset and may present when 6 weeks old, with complete blindness by 12 months.
DNA testing is available to identify clear, carrier and affected dogs.