Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why did my senior dog suddenly go blind then regain sight?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Australian Shepherd | Female | spayed | 15 years old

My dog woke me at 2am to go outside and it seems she was completely blind. 4.5 hours later her vision is back, what could this be, no vet open today as it is a public holiday Worried mum

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jacqueline Nobles, DVM, DACVECC

Veterinarian, Board-Certified Emergency/Critical Care Specialist

Published on January 1st, 2017

Dogs can develop blindness secondary to disease of the brain (central), eye (peripheral) or secondary to systemic disease such as elevated blood pressure or Cushing's disease. If she is able to see now, she may not have been truly blind before or just had trouble seeing at night. A full examination would be needed to help to determine the underlying cause. In the meantime, observe her closely and make notes including changes in behavior, bumping into things, changes in eyes, changes in urination or defecation, appetite and take this information with you to your veterinary appointment.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    At her age the first thing that comes to mind is a brain tumor. this is quite difficult to diagnose (requires MRI) but can be concluded by ruling out other possible reasons such as a head trauma, kidney disease and other eye conditions.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 27th, 2017

    Sudden blindness is definitely a cause for concern and considered a medical emergency so a visit to a vet is recommended. Causing could include detachment of the retina (the back part of the eye) which can be due to high blood pressure, trauma, inflammation/infection inside the eye, and glaucoma. There is also a condition called Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration or SARDS in dogs that can cause sudden onset of blindness. A vet exam is recommended right away to look into the back of the eye, test the eye pressure and blood pressure. If blood pressure is elevated the vet may also want to check bloodwork for underlying systemic disease such as kidney disease. In some cases, if treated immediately depending on the cause of the blindness, some vision may be restored, but waiting can cause permanent blindness.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My male dog's penis is stuck out and his scrotum has a painful rash.
Is your 11-year-old male dog experiencing a painful penis or rash? A certified vet explains potential paraphimosis urgency and why immediate care is vital.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is there a chart for dog food protein biological value and digestibility?
Dog food protein's biological value & digestibility: A vet explains why data is complex. Learn to judge quality by company reputation and your dog's health.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why does my puppy have bloody, mucousy stools despite diet changes?
Your 4-month-old puppy suffers from ongoing loose stools with mucus and blood. An expert veterinarian explores potential intestinal parasites and advises further fecal testing. Find answers here!
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dog rubs belly & scratches face, no fleas. Could it be allergies?
Does your dog rub her belly and scratch her face without fleas? A certified vet discusses possible causes like allergies, infection, or mites. Get expert guidance now!
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored