Eye issues in dogs can be a significant cause for concern among pet owners, presenting a range of worrying symptoms. If you notice your canine companion squinting, pawing at their eye, or experiencing unusual discharge, they may be suffering from an eye condition that requires prompt attention. While common, these ailments necessitate professional veterinary diagnosis and treatment to prevent potential complications, including vision loss. This guide explores prevalent dog eye problems, their symptoms, and the crucial importance of timely veterinary intervention.
Key Takeaways
Many canine eye conditions, such as infections, glaucoma, and cherry eye, demand immediate veterinary care to avert complications like permanent vision impairment. Recognizing symptoms like eye discharge, redness, cloudiness, squinting, or the visibility of the third eyelid can signal a serious issue requiring urgent attention. Treatment for these ocular problems in dogs is varied and depends entirely on the specific diagnosis, potentially including medications, surgical procedures, or ongoing management strategies to preserve ocular health.
Common Canine Eye Conditions
It’s essential for pet parents to be aware of several common eye problems that can affect their dogs.
1. Eye Infections
Infections can impact various parts of the eye, including the eyelids, conjunctiva (the pink tissue lining the eye), or the eyeball itself. These infections can stem from bacterial, viral, or fungal causes.
Seek veterinary attention if you observe any of the following signs:
- Yellow, green, or bloody discharge from the eyes.
- Swelling, crusting, and hair loss around the eyelids.
- Pronounced redness and swelling of the conjunctiva and the whites of the eyes.
- Your dog persistently squints or keeps their eyes closed.
A veterinarian may perform an eye stain test to detect any injuries to the cornea. Treatment typically involves prescribed eye drops to combat the infection and reduce inflammation. For eyelid infections, oral antibiotics may also be administered.
2. Cherry Eye
Cherry eye, technically known as prolapse of the gland of the third eyelid, occurs when the tear gland located within the third eyelid displaces. This condition is more prevalent in brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like English Bulldogs and Pugs, as well as giant breeds with loose skin around their eyes, such as Bullmastiffs and Newfoundlands. However, it can affect any dog. It is crucial to consult a veterinarian immediately if you suspect your dog has cherry eye.
3. Glaucoma
Glaucoma in dogs is characterized by increased intraocular pressure within the eye. Normally, the fluid balance within the eye maintains consistent pressure. Glaucoma arises when there’s an imbalance, either excessive fluid production or impaired drainage, leading to elevated pressure. To prevent vision loss, seek veterinary care as soon as possible if you notice any signs of glaucoma in your dog.
4. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
Conjunctivitis, commonly referred to as pink eye, is the inflammation of the conjunctiva, the moist mucous membrane lining the eye and eyelid. In dogs, conjunctivitis is often triggered by allergies, foreign objects, bacterial infections, or, less commonly, viral infections. Treatment usually involves antibacterial eye drops or ointments, and sometimes corticosteroids like dexamethasone are used to reduce inflammation. It is essential to visit your veterinarian for a proper evaluation and prescription of the appropriate treatment.
5. Ectropion
Ectropion is a condition where the lower eyelid droops or rolls outward, away from the eye. While some breeds, including Bullmastiffs, Basset Hounds, Bloodhounds, Retrievers, Bulldogs, and Spaniels, may naturally exhibit mild ectropion, it can lead to chronic inflammation, dry eye, and infections in some dogs. Therefore, if your dog shows any related signs, a veterinary visit is recommended. Surgical correction is an option for this condition.
6. Entropion
Entropion is an eyelid condition where the eyelid rolls inward. This can affect either the upper or lower eyelids. Breeds commonly predisposed to entropion include English Bulldogs, Labrador Retrievers, Saint Bernards, Rottweilers, and Chesapeake Bay Retrievers. Mild cases might not cause issues, but if the eyelashes or eyelid rub against the eye’s surface, it leads to irritation, injury, and potential infection. Chronic cases can result in permanent corneal damage and vision loss. Consult your veterinarian to determine the best course of action for your dog.
7. Cataracts
Dogs with cataracts develop cloudiness in the central part of their eye because the lens loses its transparency. Cataracts can affect one or both eyes, and depending on their severity, they can lead to significant vision impairment or blindness. It is important to see your vet to identify the underlying cause of the cataracts and initiate appropriate treatment.
8. Lazy Eye (Strabismus)
Lazy eye, or strabismus, affects the eye muscles, causing one or both eyes to not align straight ahead. In some breeds like Pugs and Boston Terriers, strabismus is congenital and common, requiring no treatment. However, if a lazy eye develops suddenly, veterinary assistance is crucial, as it could indicate a neurological problem affecting balance or a mass within the eye socket.
9. Corneal Ulcers
A corneal ulcer is essentially a scratch or injury on the surface of the cornea, the clear front part of the eye. Dogs with corneal ulcers may exhibit cloudiness in the front of the eye and experience green, yellow, or clear discharge. Ulcers can result from injury, infection, or inflammation due to chronic dry eye. These are often painful, causing dogs to squint and paw at their eye. Seek prompt veterinary treatment to alleviate your dog’s discomfort. Treatment typically involves antibiotic eye drops and the use of a recovery collar to prevent further rubbing and damage.
10. Retinal Issues
The retina, located at the back of the eye, contains light-sensitive cells crucial for vision. Diseases affecting the retina lead to blindness. Inherited retinal diseases are seen in breeds like Irish Setters, Briards, and Papillons. Other causes include distemper virus, fungal infections, Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome (SARDS), and glaucoma. If your dog suddenly loses vision or appears blind, seek immediate veterinary care. In some instances, vision may be reversible.
11. Dog Eye Allergies
Similar to skin allergies, allergies can also affect a dog’s eyes, leading to redness and itchiness. Bacterial infections are common secondary issues, sometimes producing greenish or yellowish discharge. Treatment often includes corticosteroid eye drops and antihistamines. Consult your veterinarian to determine the necessary treatments for your dog.
12. Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca)
Dry eye results from reduced tear production or increased tear evaporation. It’s common in brachycephalic breeds due to incomplete eyelid closure. Eye lubricants can help maintain moisture, while specific ointments stimulate tear production. Lifelong management is often necessary to prevent severe eye damage, so consult your vet for appropriate medications.
13. Watery Eyes (Epiphora)
Watery discharge from the eyes, known as epiphora, is frequently observed in breeds like Poodles, Spaniels, and brachycephalic dogs. If there’s no accompanying redness or irritation, it may not require treatment. However, if the eyes are red or the surrounding skin is irritated, a veterinary assessment is needed to address any underlying inflammation.
14. Bulging Eyes (Proptosis)
Eyes can appear to bulge due to increased intraocular pressure (glaucoma) or if the eye is pushed out of its socket, which can be caused by tumors or shallow eye sockets common in breeds like Pugs. Sudden eye bulging requires immediate veterinary attention.
15. Swollen Eyes
Swollen eyes can stem from infections, allergies, or injuries. They may also be linked to corneal damage or eyelid abnormalities like entropion. Any eye swelling should be evaluated by a veterinarian to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
16. Irritated/Red Eyes
Red eyes are a common symptom indicating various eye conditions, from simple allergies to more serious issues. If your dog’s eyes are red, visit your vet. They will look for other symptoms like discharge, squinting, and corneal cloudiness to diagnose the problem.
17. Squinting
Squinting is a clear sign of eye pain in dogs and is associated with numerous eye diseases, as well as painful eyelid conditions like entropion, tumors, and skin infections. Take your dog to the vet if you notice them squinting.
18. Glassy Eyes
Glassy eyes can indicate eye inflammation caused by conditions such as pink eye, chronic dry eye, or allergies. Dehydration can also lead to this symptom. If your dog has glassy eyes and exhibits lethargy or changes in behavior, seek veterinary care promptly.
19. Cloudy Eyes
Various factors can cause cloudy eyes in dogs. Prompt veterinary assessment is crucial to determine the cause and initiate appropriate treatment, minimizing the risk of permanent eye damage.
20. Discharge
While a small amount of clear or white eye discharge is normal, changes in the color and amount can signal an underlying issue. Watery discharge may indicate allergies or a blocked tear duct. Yellow or green discharge typically points to a bacterial infection. Thick, dry discharge can be associated with chronic dry eye. Contact your veterinarian if you notice any unusual discharge from your dog’s eyes.
21. Growth or Lump on Eyelid
Eyelid tumors are common in older dogs. Benign growths like meibomian cysts usually aren’t problematic unless they grow large enough to irritate the eye. Malignant tumors, such as mast cell tumors, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, require surgical removal. Have any lumps on your dog’s eyelids examined by your vet.
22. Third Eyelid Visibility
The third eyelid plays a vital role in protecting the eye and housing a tear gland. Prolapse of this gland appears as a red mass. Tumors on the third eyelid can also make it more prominent. Neurological conditions like Horner’s syndrome or tetanus, as well as eye pain, dehydration, or a sunken eye, can cause the third eyelid to become visible. If your dog’s third eyelid is showing, a veterinary visit is necessary.
When to Seek Veterinary Care
Any abnormality observed in or around your dog’s eyes warrants a visit to the veterinarian. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are paramount for preserving your dog’s vision and ensuring their comfort. Recognizing the diverse range of symptoms associated with eye issues allows for accurate diagnosis and timely initiation of appropriate treatment.
Common Dog Eye Problems FAQs
How do I know if my dog has an eye problem?
Symptoms such as squinting, pawing at the eye, discharge, redness, or cloudiness are indicators of potential eye issues. When in doubt, a veterinary examination is always recommended.
Can I treat my dog’s eye infection at home?
Home remedies are insufficient for treating canine eye infections, which require prescription medications. It is essential to consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
What are common treatments for dog eye problems?
Treatment varies depending on the underlying cause and may include steroid or antibiotic eye drops, ointments, and antihistamines.
Written by Emily A. Fassbaugh, DVM
