Common ocular problems of Shin Tzu dogs.

In recent years the Shih Tzu has become a popular breed of dog. It has a number of serious diseases of the eye which are not being recognized by breeders, owners, and sometimes veterinarians. The purpose of this communication is to assist veterinarians in recognizing and treating, where possible, some of the common ocular problems of this breed, including medial canthal entropion, various trichiasis problems, dermoids, third eyelid gland prolapse, chronic keratitis and corneal ulcers, progressive retinal atrophy, vitreal syneresis, and retinal detachment. Because most of the problems are inherited or of suspected genetic origin, breeders should receive genetic counselling from their veterinarian.