What Is SARDS in Dogs? Signs, Diagnosis & Care | Spitz Groom
What Is SARDS? A Gentle Guide for Dog Owners
Sometimes a dog who could see perfectly well last week starts bumping into furniture, hesitating at the stairs, or missing a treat that lands right in front of them. It can be frightening to watch, and one possible cause is something many owners have never heard of: SARDS.
What SARDS actually is
SARDS stands for Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome. The retina is the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye, and in dogs with SARDS, the cells that detect light stop working. The result is blindness that comes on quickly, usually over a few days to a few weeks, and it is permanent.
One of the most confusing things about SARDS is that the eyes often look completely normal. There is no cloudiness, redness or obvious injury, which is why many owners don't realise their dog has lost their sight until they notice changes in how their dog moves around.
Which dogs are affected
SARDS can happen to any dog, but it is most often seen in middle-aged dogs, and it seems to be more common in females and in breeds such as Dachshunds, Miniature Schnauzers, Pugs and Bichon Frises. Researchers still don't know exactly what causes it. Current theories point towards the immune system or hormonal changes, but there is no confirmed answer yet.
Signs to watch for
- Bumping into walls, doors or furniture, especially in new or rearranged spaces
- Reluctance to use stairs, jump on the couch or go outside at night
- Seeming startled when touched or approached
- Pupils that stay large, even in bright light
Many dogs also show other changes in the weeks leading up to vision loss, such as drinking and weeing more, a bigger appetite, or putting on weight. If you notice any of these, it's worth mentioning to your vet.
How it's diagnosed
Because the eyes can look healthy, your vet may refer you to a veterinary ophthalmologist. They can run a test called an electroretinogram (ERG), which measures how the retina responds to light and confirms whether SARDS is the cause. It's important to rule out other conditions too, as some causes of sudden blindness can be treated if caught early.
The good news
SARDS is not painful. Your dog isn't hurting, and while there is currently no proven cure, most dogs adapt remarkably well. Dogs rely heavily on their noses and ears, and with a little time and support, many blind dogs go back to enjoying walks, play and cuddles with real confidence.
Simple things make a big difference: keeping furniture in the same place, using your voice to let them know you're coming, adding scent or texture markers near stairs and doors, and teaching cue words like "step" or "careful".
How we care for dogs with SARDS at Spitz Groom
If your dog has been diagnosed with SARDS, please let us know when you book. Every dog who comes to us is groomed at their own pace, and for a dog without sight, that means we talk to them before we touch them, keep our movements calm and predictable, let them sniff tools and equipment first, and give them plenty of breaks. We'll note everything in their grooming record so every visit feels familiar and safe.
A diagnosis of SARDS is a big adjustment for families, but it doesn't have to change the joy your dog brings. If you have any questions about how we can support your dog, we're always happy to chat.
For more information visit: VCA Hospitals - Home of World Class Pet Reasources: SARDS
This article is general information only. Please speak with your vet if you have concerns about your dog's eyesight.