Journal of Neuro-Ophthalmology, December 2000, Volume 20, Issue 4

Idiopathic Horner Syndrome in the Golden Retriever

OBJECTIVES: Various reports have noted a high incidence of idiopathic Horner syndrome in golden retriever dogs. The author seeks to document this condition in the breed. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective study was made of cases of Horner syndrome in dogs referred to the author throughout a 10-year period. As part of the general clinical, ophthalmic, and neurologic examination, denervation hypersensitivity testing was performed to localize the responsible lesion. Follow-up results were obtained in all cases by repeat examination or telephone contact. RESULTS: Of 155 dogs in the study, 110 were golden retrievers, 100 of which were diagnosed as having idiopathic second order Horner syndrome. Ninety-five of the golden retrievers were male, some neutered. Signs resolved spontaneously in all cases within 6 months. CONCLUSIONS: There is a high incidence of idiopathic second order Horner syndrome in the male golden retriever.