Eye Problems in Dogs

There are many types of eye problems that affect dogs.  It is essential to seek veterinary attention if you notice any visible changes in your dog’s eyes, as well as inflammation, discomfort or notice the dog walking into objects.

Nuclear Lenticular Sclerosis:  This is a common eye problem in older dogs characterized by cloudiness.  This results from compaction and hardening of the lens.  It is often mistaken for cataracts, however is not as serious.  There is no prevention for this problem it is just a sign of aging.

Diseases of the Eyelids:

Conjunctivitis:  This is a very common eye problem in dogs.  It is an inflammation of the membrane that lines the dog’s eyelid and the sclera (the white part of the eye).  Conjunctivitis is typically caused by infection, scratches, and irritants (i.e. smoke or dust).  Typical signs are redness of the eyelid lining, squinting and discharge from the eye.  A veterinarian will often prescribe ointments or eye drops to help remedy the situation.

Entropion:  This is a common hereditary defect seen in dogs with deeply wrinkled facial features.  This causes eyelids to turn inwards which results in scratches on the cornea from the eyelashes.  It can also cause the eyelid to roll forward creating a pouch where tears pool, depriving the eye surface of necessary lubrication.  Entropion is usually evident prior to one year of age and symptoms include discomfort that causes squinting and increased tearing.  The dog may become sensitive to light and may rub their eyes.  Corneal ulceration and scarring can also lead to impaired vision.  The enrolling of the eyelid is readily apparent and generally affects both eyes.  Veterinarians will need to evaluate the degree of Entropion and use a fluorescent dye to determine if there is any corneal ulceration.  Treatment of this defect will require surgery.

If the dog is young, it may be better to wait until they are an adult as the facial structures involved are still growing and changing.  In some cases more than one operation may be required.  The need for multiple surgeries is due to the fact that some breeds, primarily the Chow Chow have severe heavy facial folds.

Cherry Eye:  Dogs have a third eyelid located in the corner of each eye and this eyelid contains a tear gland. Cherry eye occurs when the third eyelid comes out of its normal position and swells:  appearing as a bright red bulge in the inside corner of the dogs eye.  This third eye basically acts as an added layer of protection of the eye and if this condition arises, surgery is required.  Veterinarians are reluctant to remove the tear gland because doing so increases the risk of decreased tear production.

There are two techniques for doing this surgery.  The first and most common surgery is called “tucking”.  A single stitch is permanently placed to draw the gland back to where it belongs.  The second surgery involves a wedge of tissue being removed from directly above the actual gland.  Tiny dissolvable stitches are used to close the gap so that the tightening of the incision margins pushes the gland back into place.  Owners should expect swelling after the cherry eye surgery, however this should resolve the problem and the eye should be comfortable and normal in appearance after about a week.  If the eye appears to be in sudden pain or unusual in appearance it is best to have a post surgery check with the veterinarian.

Diseases of the cornea:

It is quite common for breeds that have bulging eyes to get scratches, abrasions and foreign bodies in the cornea.  Corneal damage often causes eye redness and the dog may paw at their eyes, caused by the discomfort of the disease.  Any sign of corneal irritation requires veterinarian attention.  The vet will perform an eye exam and apply a special stain to look for corneal damage.  If the owner delays in the treatment of corneal lesion, it could lead to the development of a painful corneal ulcer or an inflammatory condition known as Keratitis, a condition that could lead to vision loss.

Diseases of the lens:

Cataracts are a common disease of the lens.  It is typically inherited and genetically affects breeds such as Cocker Spaniels, Poodles, Huskies, Labradors and Schnauzers.  Some dogs can suffer from late-onset inherited cataracts, and some from diabetes.  Large cataracts can reduce lens function to the point of blindness.  Treatment is elective, and is treated by surgically removing the cataract lenses.

Common diseases of the eye:

Glaucoma:  This is an increase in eye pressure due to fluid buildup.  It is serious and can lead to partial or complete blindness.  Symptoms may include redness, cloudiness, excessive tearing, eyelid swelling, pain and sensitivity to light.  The way to diagnose glaucoma is to see a vet.  They will measure the eye pressure with a Tonometer (measures intra-ocular pressure without anesthesia).  Treatment could include medication for relieving the pressure or laser surgery.  In some cases, removal of the eye may be necessary.

Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA):  a vision destroying disease where there is a loss of rod photoreceptor responses which leads to night blindness.  This is followed by a slower loss of cone responses and progressive deterioration in daytime vision.  The age of onset can vary between the types of PRA.  The owners may not notice any difference until the dog experiences night vision loss or total blindness.

The only known prevention is to avoid breeding a dog that has PRA or one that has produced puppies that have later had this condition.  If considering a purebred dog, always make sure that the parents are CERF tested (Canine Eye Registration Foundation).

Eye discharge:  If you notice discharge in your dog’s eyes, it can be easily wiped away with warm water and a clean soft cloth.  Dogs may experience eye discharge due to allergies, change of foods, and a slight irritation or from a larger issue.  For white dogs, there are products that help tackle the stains that are left from eye discharge.

Preventative Care

Always keep a dog’s head inside a moving vehicle to prevent dust and other foreign bodies that may occur.  It is very important to check a dog’s eye on a regular basis, and to make sure that the annual vet checkup includes a thorough eye exam.

If you notice any eye issues, it is best to seek veterinary help immediately.  Vision is not as overwhelmingly important for dogs as it is for humans.  Visually impaired dogs can move around comfortably in familiar surroundings with the help of their powerful senses of smell and hearing.  What blind dogs need, is a stable and predictable home setting and supervision when outside.  Using baby gates, leashes and voice commands will help keep the dog safe. 

For more information about eye disorders and diseases, please contact your veterinarian