What are common vision changes in aging dogs?

• A. Glaucoma, cataracts, and nystagmus
• B. Cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, and reduced depth perception
• C. Improved night vision
• D. Vision unaffected by aging

Answer: (B)

As dogs age, vision tends to decline due to changes in the lens and retina. Cataracts are a common aging change that cloud the eye, making vision hazy and reducing clarity. Progressive retinal atrophy is another degenerative process that slowly damages the retina, often starting with poorer night vision and eventually affecting day sight. When vision is reduced, depth perception suffers because the eyes can’t share precise visual information as well, so dogs may seem more cautious or unsure about steps, distances, or navigating around furniture.

Other possibilities like glaucoma or nystagmus aren’t typical normal aging changes, and vision doesn’t improve with age. It’s common for senior dogs to experience these kinds of changes, with cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, and reduced depth perception being the most characteristic.