Collie Breed Medical Conditions
by George Jones
      The following medical conditions have been known to occur in the Collie breed. A well bred, healthy Collie puppy - from a stable, healthy ancestory, will be less likely to have a serious genetic medical problem.

Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)
        This ailment can be found in the Collie gene pool. This condition is totally hereditary and can lead to blindness. All puppies (and their parents) should have certification of testing for this disorder.
For further information please see: Medical Index/Collie Eye Anomaly.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
        Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and Central Progressive Retinal Atrophy (CPRA) are among the most common eye problems in Collies. These conditions usually begin to display symptoms at about 2 years of age.  They are progressive in their degeneration. Both conditions are hereditary. Both parents should have CERF certification proof, when looking to purchase a pup.
For further information please see: Medical Index/Progressive Retinal Atrophy.

Epilepsy
        Collies have been reported with epilepsy. As with humans canine epilepsy is a neurological seizures can be controlled through medication.
For further information please see: Medical Index/Epilepsy.

Hot Spots
      Hot Spots is an area of skin that is irritated due to flea bite(s), or allergies.  The dog scratches or chews the area enlarging the opening, the area becomes infected and then the cycle repeats itself.
For further information please see :  Medical Index/Hot Spots.

Thyroid Deficiency
         Thyroid deficiency, or hypothyroidism, is the condition resulting from a low production of usable hormones by the thyroid gland.
For further information please see : Medical Index/Thyroid Deficiency.

Bloat (GDV)
      Bloat must not be ignored.  If your dog looks "bulgy", is pacing with anxiety and drooling a bit, he cannot sit or lie down comfortably and is in general distress, get moving now, get to a veterinarian.
For further information, please see: Medical Index/G.V.D. or bloat.
 

Corneal Dystrophy (CD)

        Corneal Dystrophy is a hereditary eye disease affecting only the cornea.  The impact of this disorder comes in varying degrees and the age of onset can vary with type.  It is only through selective breeding that this disorder can be reduced in the the Collie population.
For further information please see: Medical Index/Corneal Dystrophy.

Anesthetics
        Collies normally have very low body fat. This makes some Collies particularly sensitive to barbiturate-based anesthetics. Be sure to discuss this potential difficulty with your veterinarian prior to any surgery.

Heartworm Medication
      Collies are known to have a sensitivity to certain heartworm medications.  Be sure that your veterinarian is aware of this sensitivity.

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