Common Canine Eye Problems
Many dogs develop canine eye problems. Conjunctivitis, dry eye, and dog cataracts are a few of the most common dog eye problems. Some dog breeds are prone to certain eye problems.
A common sign of dog cataracts is the appearance of opaque spots on the lens of the eye. Large cataracts or cataracts invading the dog’s field of vision can block a dog’s vision. Late onset cataracts typically develop in the late adulthood of the dog, but younger dogs can have cataracts due to genetic causes.
Glaucoma is and eye condition that can lead to blindness. Glaucoma can cause poor vision, eye cloudiness, redness, and a dilated pupil that is not responsive to light.
Canine conjunctivitis can cause red, itchy, tearing eyes. The cause of conjunctivitis in dogs is usually allergies.
A condition that causes the eyes not produce enough tears is called dry eye. Dog breeds that have protruding eyes such as Pugs and Shih Tzus are susceptible to dry eye. Dry eye can be a serious canine eye problem for dogs with protruding eyes.
Bulldogs, Cocker Spaniels, and Poodles are prone to an eye condition called cherry eye. Cherry eye is a prolapsed gland of the third eyelid.
And inward folding of the eyelid which makes the eyelashes rub against the eye can be caused by a condition called entropion. Cocker spaniels, Shar Pei, Rottweilers, and Labrador retrievers are most often affected by entropion.
Another condition that affects the eye and eyelashes is atopic cilia. This condition causes an eyelash to grow abnormally which can cause an ulcer on the cornea. A canine eye problem that causes the eyelashes to grow along the edge of the eyelid which irritates the eye is called distichiasis.
Puppy strangles, also called puppy pyoderma, is a condition that can cause abscesses on the eyelid.Dermoid is another condition that can cause ulcers. Dermoid is a canine eye problem with the genetic cause characterized by hairy skin on the eye.
If a dog gets dirt or debris in its eye, the dog owner can flush out the eye with sterile saline. Any inflammation, soreness, swelling, or sores on or around the eye needs to be examined by a veterinarian. Any changes to a dog’s eyes or visual ability should prompt the veterinary visit.
Moses Wright believes in giving dogs a balance diet. He provides more information on homemade dog foods and natural dog food recipes to help dog owners give a healthy diet to their dogs.
