Eye Problems In Dogs

Dogs of any breed can have issues with their eyes either due to injury, infections or genetic conditions. Of course dogs with very prominent eyes are more likely to have eye injuries, just because of the shape of the eye in relation to the skull and face.

Some breeds are more likely to have eye problems than others so researching each dog breed is important as is checking the history of any eye or vision problems in either parent line.

The most common eye problems in dogs are typically treatable and even some of the genetic or congenital conditions of the eyes can now be surgically corrected.

Eye Problems In Dogs - Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca or KCS)

When the tear glands, called the lacrimal glands, don't produce enough moisture or tears the eyes become dry, irritated and inflamed. In advanced states KCS can result in blindness as the eye becomes permanently damaged. Tear production can stop for a number of different reasons including plugging of the tear ducts, infections, genetic conditions and even some diseases such as distemper.

In some cases immune mediated conditions will actually destroy the tear gland tissues and this is most commonly found in West Highland White Terriers, Miniature Schnauzers and the American Cocker Spaniel. Treatment will vary based on the cause of the condition but typically includes eye drops to moisten the eye, drops to dissolve mucus, antibiotics to treat infections and medications such as Cyclosporine to arrest the destruction of the tissue in the case of immune system problems. There are other types of conjunctivitis in dogs that are not as severe and may need short term tear replacement and antibiotic treatment to correct the problem. Eye Problems In Dogs - Cataracts Just like people, dogs can get cataracts as they age. Occasionally they can also be found in young dogs, however dogs over 5 are more likely to have cataracts. The lens of the eye becomes opaque and rigid, preventing focus and gradually causing vision loss. Cataracts can be removed and an artificial lens implanted surgically, however not all will become significant enough to require this treatment. Eye Problems In Dogs - Entropion Entropion is the inward reversal or rolling of the eyelids so the eyelashes are scratching against the surface of the eye. Typically the lower eyelid is the affected area, however it can occur on the upper eyelid as well. Some breeds such as the Shar-Pei, Bulldog, Irish Setter, Golden and Labrador Retrievers, Great Danes and the Mastiff breeds are more prone to this condition than others.

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Many puppies will develop this early in life, however it can also occur at any time, especially in dogs with lots of skin in the face area such as the Mastiffs and Bulldogs. It is treatable with a small surgical procedure that pulls the eyelid back into place. Without treatment or correction the eye will become infected and there may be partial to full vision loss over time.

Eye Problems In Dogs - Tearing

Especially obvious on light colored dogs, excessive tearing is typically a sign of eye infections and irritations. The tears create a moist, hot area around the eyes that allows bacteria to grow. The reddish color noted on many dogs is actually called Red Yeast and can be very problematic. In some cases blocked tear ducts may also lead to excessive tearing and bacterial infections.

Treatment may include surgical opening or modification of the tear ducts, treatments with antibiotics so control bacterial infections as well as routine cleaning, drying and clipping of the area around the eye.

Any eye abnormalities need to be checked out by the vet as soon as possible. Remember some eye conditions can result in permanent blindness so early treatment is imperative.

Article by Karen Olson of Oh My Dog Supplies, your top spot to buy dog coats & jackets online.

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