30 Nov Common Eye Problems in Dogs and How to Spot Them Early

Your dog’s eyes are more than just windows to their soul—they’re essential for exploring the world and staying connected with you. Yet, many dog owners overlook early signs of eye problems, assuming a bit of redness or discharge is harmless. Unfortunately, untreated eye issues can lead to pain, discomfort, or even permanent vision loss. By learning to identify common eye problems in dogs and their warning signs, you can take proactive steps to protect your furry friend’s sight. In this guide, we’ll explore the most frequent eye issues dogs face and practical tips to catch them before they become serious.

Common Eye Problems in Dogs

Understanding common eye issues can help you protect your furry friend’s vision and health. Below are some of the most frequent eye problems dogs may face.

1. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

What It Is:
Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane covering the white part of the eye and lining the eyelid.

Signs to Spot:

• Redness in the eyes
• Discharge (clear, yellow, or green)
• Excessive blinking or squinting
• Swollen eyelids

Causes:
Allergies, infections, irritants like dust, or underlying diseases.

2. Cataracts

What It Is:
A cataract is the clouding of the eye’s lens, leading to vision impairment.

Signs to Spot:

• A white or cloudy appearance in the eye
• Difficulty navigating in dim light
• Reluctance to climb stairs or jump

Causes:
Ageing, diabetes, or genetic predisposition.

3. Glaucoma

What It Is:
Glaucoma is an increase in intraocular pressure that damages the optic nerve.

Signs to Spot:

• Red or bloodshot eyes
• Cloudy cornea
• Enlarged eyeball
• Pain (your dog might paw at their eye)

Causes:
Poor fluid drainage in the eye, trauma, or infections.

4. Corneal Ulcers

What It Is:
A corneal ulcer is a wound on the cornea, often caused by scratches, foreign objects, or infections.

Signs to Spot:

• Visible scratches or cloudy spots on the eye
• Tearing and squinting
• Sensitivity to light
• Swelling

Causes:
Trauma, infections, or dry eyes.

5. Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca)

What It Is:
Dry eye occurs when tear production is insufficient, leading to inflammation and damage to the cornea.

Signs to Spot:

• Thick eye discharge
• Redness
• Rubbing or pawing at the eyes
• Dull or dry-looking eyes

Causes:
Immune disorders, certain medications, or infections.

6. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

What It Is:
PRA is a genetic condition where the retina deteriorates over time, leading to blindness.

Signs to Spot:

• Night blindness (difficulty seeing in low light)
• Dilated pupils
• Shiny reflection from the back of the eye

Causes:
Hereditary factors.

How to Spot Common Eye Problems in Dogs Early

Catching eye issues in dogs early can save their vision and prevent unnecessary discomfort. Here are some practical steps to help you identify problems before they worsen:

1. Observe Your Dog’s Behaviour

Changes in your dog’s actions can often be the first sign of an eye issue. Watch for:

• Squinting or excessive blinking: These may indicate discomfort or pain.
• Pawing at their eyes: A sign they’re trying to relieve irritation.
• Hesitation in low light: Difficulty navigating in dim conditions could signal vision problems.
• Bumping into objects: This might suggest impaired vision.

2. Look for Physical Symptoms

Regularly inspect your dog’s eyes and surrounding areas. Common signs of trouble include:

• Redness or swelling: Often a sign of inflammation or infection.
• Discharge: Clear, yellow, or green discharge could indicate conjunctivitis or other issues.
• Cloudiness or dullness: May point to cataracts, corneal ulcers, or glaucoma.
• Scratches or spots on the eye surface: Suggest trauma or irritation.
• Dry or crusty eye area: This could signal tear production problems, like dry eye.

3. Perform Routine Eye Care

Preventative care helps you spot issues early while keeping your dog comfortable:

• Gently clean around your dog’s eyes with a soft, damp cloth to remove dirt or discharge.
• Trim long fur near the eyes to reduce irritation and prevent debris from entering.

4. Know Your Dog’s Breed Risks

Certain breeds are more prone to eye problems. For example:

• Pugs, Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus: Susceptible to corneal ulcers and dry eye due to their protruding eyes.
• Golden Retrievers and Cocker Spaniels: At higher risk for cataracts and glaucoma.
• Herding breeds like Collies: They May develop Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA).

Understanding your dog’s genetic predispositions allows for more targeted monitoring.

5. Schedule Regular Vet Checkups

Even if your dog’s eyes seem healthy, routine veterinary exams are essential. A vet can detect underlying issues you might miss and recommend preventative measures to maintain eye health.

By staying alert to behavioural changes, physical symptoms, and breed-specific risks, you can catch eye problems early and give your dog the best chance at maintaining healthy, bright vision for life.

Why Early Detection Matters

Your dog’s eyes are delicate yet vital for their overall health and well-being. Just like in humans, eye problems in dogs can progress rapidly if left untreated, leading to discomfort, pain, or even irreversible blindness. Early detection not only helps prevent these outcomes but also ensures your furry friend gets the care they need promptly.

When eye issues are identified in their initial stages, they’re often easier and less costly to treat. For instance, a minor case of conjunctivitis can be resolved with medication, while ignoring it could lead to severe infections or complications. Beyond physical health, maintaining good eye health also supports your dog’s emotional well-being, as impaired vision can make them anxious or fearful in unfamiliar environments.

By learning to spot the early signs of eye problems and acting quickly, you can protect your dog’s eyesight and enhance their quality of life.

When to See a Vet

While minor eye issues might seem manageable at home, some symptoms require immediate professional attention to prevent complications. Knowing when to seek veterinary care can make all the difference for your dog’s eye health. Here are signs that require a vet visit:

1. Persistent Redness or Swelling: If your dog’s eyes remain red or swollen for more than 24 hours, it could indicate an underlying infection, inflammation, or trauma.
2. Changes in Vision or Eye Appearance: Look out for cloudiness, white spots, or an enlarged eyeball. These symptoms might signal cataracts, glaucoma, or corneal ulcers.
3. Excessive Discharge: Thick, yellow, green, or blood-tinged discharge is often a sign of infection or conjunctivitis and needs prompt treatment.
4. Frequent Pawing or Rubbing: If your dog keeps rubbing their eyes or face, they may be experiencing pain or irritation that requires a vet’s evaluation.
5. Sudden Blindness or Difficulty Navigating: A sudden change in your dog’s ability to see or move around safely is a medical emergency. It could result from conditions like glaucoma or retinal detachment.
6. Signs of Pain: Whining, excessive blinking, or sensitivity to light often indicate discomfort that should be addressed immediately.

Read More About Ear Infections in Dogs:

Ear Infections in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Care