Living With A Blind Dog

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146 – March, 2026

By William Given

There is no organization that tracks the number of blind dogs in our country. However, veterinary researchers suggest that there are approximately 300,000 blind and partially blind dogs in the United States. It has been estimated that less than 10% of blind dogs are born blind. So, the vast majority of dogs that go blind do so as a result of accidental injuries, genetic conditions, disease, or age-related changes. The most common causes are cataracts, glaucoma, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and it should be noted that these conditions are more prevalent in some breeds than others.

Regardless of the nature of their vision loss, the loss of sight does not have to greatly affect a dog’s quality of life. Blind dogs are dogs first, and blind second. Some of these dogs are happy and outgoing, while others are more serious and reserved. Some are easy-natured and some are more easily stressed. This is true for all dogs. Some like to play, others prefer to snuggle. Most enjoy their walks, going on a car ride, hanging out with their humans, and are equally capable of displaying their affection and enjoying life.

Puppies that are born blind are thought to have an easier time of it because they have not had to adjust to the loss of sight. Being blind is their norm; they know nothing different. A dog who becomes blind later in life often requires some time and assistance with the adjustment. However, most dogs who become blind adapt well, perhaps in part because the sense of smell is their primary sense. Vision and hearing simply serve to confirm what their nose has already told them.

What’s the big difference?

Click here to read the complete article
146 – March, 2026

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