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Canine eye problems are a common reason for veterinary visits. Some common canine eye problems include dry eye, conjunctivitis, and dog cataracts. Certain eye problems are common in some dog breeds.

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.

One serious eye condition that can result in blindness is glaucoma. A decline in vision, redness, eye cloudiness, and a dilated pupil that does not respond to light our signs of glaucoma.

Like people, dogs can get conjunctivitis or pink eye. Conjunctivitis and dogs is often caused by allergies. The symptoms of conjunctivitis are redness, itchiness, and tearing eyes.

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.

Cherry eye is a canine eye problem that most commonly affects cocker spaniels, poodles, and bulldogs. Cherry eye is characterized by a prolapsed gland of the third eyelid. Dog breeds prone to entropion include Rottweilers, Labrador retrievers, Shar Pei, and cocker spaniels.

An inward folding of an eyelid which caused the eyelashes and hair on the eyelid to rub against the eye is called entropion. This condition is most common in Cocker Spaniels, Shar Pei, Rottweilers, and Labrador Retrievers.

Ectopic cilia is a condition that causes an eyelash to grow abnormally and cause an ulcer on the cornea of the eye. Another condition that affects eyelashes is distichiasis which causes the eyelashes to grow along the eyelid too close to the eye. Eye lashes with abnormal growth or placement on the eyelids cause irritation to the eye.

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 treat recipes to help dog owners give a healthy diet to their dogs.