There are a number of types of cataract as well as different reasons for their occurrence. Not enough is known to be able to be completely certain which types may be hereditary and which are unlikely to be. However, from the pattern of occurrence in the Entlebucher breed it is reasonable to conclude that at least some forms of cataract are of a hereditary nature. That being the case, the safest option would be not to breed from any dogs with cataracts, however in a very limited gene pool to rule out every last condition would lead to poor breeding choices and greater risk of other problems developing. Some countries do choose to exclude all Entlebuchers with cataracts from the breeding programme, whilst others permit breeding from a dog with a single small cataract in one eye, but only when bred to a dog who is clear. The UK Club takes the latter approach.
Although it is a matter of debate, cataracts do not often present a massive problem to the dog and in many cases where the cataracts are small they are barely noticeable to either dog or owner.