Mini Schnauzer eyesight problem

Question
Hi,
I have a female mini schnauzer that will be 8 years old in October.  Over the last two weeks, we have noticed that she is having difficulty with her eyesight.  She seems to see things from a distance (movement of people, etc) but can not see things that are in front of her face.

Her eyes have always been pretty keen and this is something that has practically developed overnight.  She went to the vet last week and he is referring us to a specialist.

I was just curious if you had any feedback or comments about what may be going on with her.  The vet said she is healthy in all other regards.

Thanks in advance for any comments you may have.  

Answer
Boy, I couldn't begin to guess what is going on as schnauzers can have a number of eye problems (many of which are hereditary). I don't know that I have ever heard of those particular symptoms, but cataracts do come to mind. She wouldn't be able to see things directly in front of her very well, but she would be able to see around the cataracts (when they are smaller). Cataracts don't tend to come on all that quickly though.

Yes, a veterinary ophthalmologist is the only way to go with eye problems! Breeders should always have their puppies examined around 8 weeks of age as some conditions can be evident at that age. Good luck with your dog.