Dogs rely on their vision for everything: playing, eating, and hanging out. Unfortunately, there are a lot of problems that get in the way of their vision. Some of these are mild and easy to treat, while others can be more challenging to deal with. 

The one thing they have in common is that once they start, they should never be left alone. This guide is here to give you a glimpse of the common dog eye problems and what you can expect. With this, we can give you clues on what to do and how to help your dog. 

1. Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the thin layer that spans the white part of the eye, known as the conjunctiva. It’s also known as pink eye due to the symptoms it presents. 

This dog eye problem is mostly caused by bacterial and viral infections, but it can also be triggered by allergies and irritants. Plus, other eye issues in dogs, like entropion or ectropion, can contribute. 

Dogs prone to conjunctivitis are mostly those with flat faces like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus. Common signs include: 

• Red and swollen eyes

• Water, yellow, or green discharge

• Frequent blinking or squinting

• Sensitivity to light

• Pawing or rubbing the eyes

Treatment will focus on specific medications and lubricating eye drops. If the issue stems from the structure of the eyelid or a foreign body, then surgical correction may be required. 

2. Cataracts

Cataracts occur when the normally clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy. Because of this cloudiness, light will have a harder time reaching the retina. This obstructs a dog’s vision.

Canine cataracts can develop from several reasons, including genetics, age, diabetes, eye trauma, and poor nutrition. Breeds prone to this dog eye problem include Cocker Spaniels, Poodles, Boston Terriers, and Siberian Huskies. Symptoms include: 

• Cloudy or grayish eyes

• Changes in pupil size

• Increased clumsiness and accidents 

• Hesitation when going to unfamiliar spaces

• Trouble seeing in dim light

The main method for treating this dog eye problem is surgery, specifically phacoemulsification. This works by breaking down the cloudy lens and replacing it with a new one. While surgery carries risks, it has a high chance of success. Medications will be used for recovery. 

3. Cherry Eye

A dog’s eye is similar to a human’s in structure. This includes the cornea, lens, retina, iris, pupils, and optic nerve. However, they have something unique as well, which is the third eyelid, also called the nictitating membrane. 

When this third eyelid pops out and slips out of place, it looks like a red, fleshy lump in the corner of the dog’s eye. This is cherry eye.

Cherry eye is usually caused by a weakness in the connective tissue that holds the third eyelid in place. Factors include genetics, age, inflammation, trauma, infections, and allergies. Dogs prone to cherry eye include English Bulldogs, Beagles, American Cocker Spaniels, and Cane Corsos. 

Signs include: 

• A red or pink lump on the corner of the eye

• Eye irritation and discomfort

• Excessive tearing or watery eyes

• Pawing and rubbing at the eyes

• Mucus discharge

Surgery is the main method for treating cherry eye in dogs. This dog eye problem can be solved by repositioning the third eyelid while preserving its function. This means creating a small pocket for the third eyelid to fit into and then securing it in place. 

4. Glaucoma 

Glaucoma is a serious condition in which the fluid in the eyes builds up, leading to increased intraocular pressure. This increase in pressure inside the eyes can damage the optic nerve and retina, potentially causing blindness. 

Canine glaucoma can be primary or secondary. Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, and Beagles are common examples of inherited glaucoma. Other triggers include uveitis, lens luxation, cataracts, tumors, and trauma. The signs of glaucoma in dogs include: 

• Excessive squinting and blinking

• Cloudy or bluish cornea

• Redness in the white part of the eye

• Excessive tearing and discharge

• Bulging or enlarged eye

For treatment, our goal is to relieve the pain and lower the pressure inside the eyes. This will make use of topical eye drops and oral drugs. If these are not enough, we can proceed to more invasive procedures, such as cyclophotocoagulation and drainage implants. 

5. Dry Eye

Dry eye, or keratoconjunctivitis sicca, happens when the dog’s tear glands don’t produce enough tears to keep the eyes lubricated. When this happens, their eyes become vulnerable to irritation, infections, and injury. 

The most common cause of dry eye in dogs is an autoimmune disorder. This dog eye problem can also be caused by congenital issues, medications, nerve problems, infections, and injuries. Breeds prone to dry eye include English Bulldogs, Yorkshire Terriers, and Cocker Spaniels.

Signs include:

• Redness and swelling

• Thick, sticky discharge

• Frequent squinting or blinking

• Rubbing or pawing at the eyes

• Cloudy appearance of the eyes

Dry eye generally requires lifelong management and care. This will involve medications to stimulate tear production and keep the eyes moist. Common examples include cyclosporine and tacrolimus. 

6. Entropion

Entropion is a dog eye problem in which the eyelid rolls inward, causing the eyelashes to rub and touch the cornea. This constant friction can irritate the eyes, causing pain, tearing, and ulcers. If not corrected, it can cause permanent eye damage.

This dog eye problem is mostly an inherited condition, but it can also develop later in life because of eye infections, injuries, and nerve damage. Dogs prone to entropion include Saint Bernards, Chow Chows, and Bloodhounds. Signs include:

• Excessive tearing or watery eyes

• Frequent squinting and blinking

• Redness and inflammation

• Visible eye irritation and pain 

• Pawing or rubbing at the eyes 

Treating entropion will require surgical correction, notably the Hotz-Celsus procedure. Here, the eyelids are reshaped and corrected so they no longer roll inward. Supplementary treatments will include pain meds and lubricating eye drops. 

7. Corneal Ulcers

A corneal ulcer is an open sore or wound on the cornea, the clear outer layer of the eye that helps focus vision. Because the cornea is so sensitive, ulcers are painful and can quickly worsen if untreated, sometimes leading to scarring or even vision loss.

Corneal ulcers are usually caused by scratches and foreign bodies. Sometimes, they can be caused by eye infections, long-term dry eye issues, and chemical irritation. Breeds prone to corneal ulcers include Pugs, Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers. Common signs of this dog eye problem are: 

• Redness or swelling around the eye

• Excessive tearing and discharge

• Frequent squinting or blinking

• Pawing or rubbing at the eye

• Sensitivity to light

Treating corneal ulcers will involve the use of antibiotic eye drops and pain relief medications. Severe cases may require surgical intervention, such as corneal grafting.

8. Progressive Retinal Atrophy

PRA is a degenerative eye condition in dogs in which the retina is gradually damaged. The retina is the part of the eye responsible for capturing light. The more it gets damaged, the more likely dogs are to experience vision loss and blindness. 

PRA usually develops over time and is genetic. This is more common in purebred dogs such as Cocker Spaniels and Labrador Retrievers. Signs include:

• Night blindness

• Dilated pupils

• Increased clumsiness and accidents

• Hestiance or disorientation

• Eye shine 

There’s no known cure for progressive retinal atrophy, as management techniques focus on helping dogs adjust to the blindness.