How Do I Prevent My Dog From Having Eye Problems?

From mild allergies and scratches to major injuries and problems like glaucoma, there are many eye problems that your dog can encounter as they age. Unfortunately, no breed is safe from aging and often the eyes are the first body part to suffer. If you want to provide your dog with the best care possible, it is crucial that you keep in mind their eye health.

Don’t wait for a vet to tell you about your dog’s eye problems, as you can detect some early signs using a few easy tricks. Keep reading to get an overview of the most common eye problems that most dogs will have, easy symptoms to spot, and as well as prevention techniques that any pet parent can utilize.

The Most Common Eye Problems in Dogs

Genetic conditions

Certain conditions are native to specific breeds – for instance, chronic superficial keratitis typically affects German Shepherds, and herding breeds such as Border Collies are predisposed to collie eye anomaly. Though some problems may not be entirely native and vary from breed to breed, the aforementioned issues are mostly genetic.

Infections

Upper respiratory infections can affect the eyes of dogs. While they’re fortunately safe from issues like infectious pink eye, frequent scratching may affect the protective eye barrier and cause bacteria to get in.

Allergies

If your dog has red or watery eyes, it’s probably an allergic reaction to the dander in the air or some other dander in the air.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is increased pressure inside the eye and may happen because of a combination of diseases that damage a nerve in the back of the eye.

Dry eye

It’s an auto-immune condition that leads to bigger eye problems if left untreated. The medical term for dry eye is keratoconjunctivitis sicca.

Trauma

Scratches and minor injuries heal on their own quickly but need proper care to prevent secondary infections. Corneal ulcerations can even turn serious and require surgery.

Eyelid masses

If your dog develops them, it’s best to have the problem checked right away. It’s normally an abnormal growth around the eyes and the lump may have to be removed.

Figuring Out What’s Causing the Problem

Many a time, you’ll be able to figure out the problem by paying heed to any symptoms that your dog shows. If you’re feeling wary of any symptoms, take your dog to the vet right away and they will recommend some tests.

Symptoms

Following are some of the symptoms of an eye problem you should be mindful of:

• Itchy eyes
• Squinting
• Red eyes
• Watery or runny eyes
• An elevated eyelid at the inner corner of the eye
• An eyelid rolled outward or inward

Tests required

Your vet may suggest one of the following tests to best determine the problem:

Fluorescein stain

This test can help locate any scratches, tears, ulcers, or similar abnormalities. The vet team utilizes a green color and drops it into each eye, followed by the use of blue light for a thorough examination.

Schirmer tear test

Helps evaluate the tear production by using small paper strips under the eye.

Measuring eye pressure

Certain eye problems can lead to a variation in ocular pressure, which can result in further complications. The pressure is checked by numbing the dog’s eyes and gently tapping them with a pressure measuring device.

How to Prevent and Treat Eye Problems

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are excellent protection for your dog’s eyes. They’re not only a great barrier against harmful UV rays but also protect your pooch’s eyes from dust and tree branches. Hunting and rescue dogs often have to run through bushes and forests – sunglasses serve as great protection in that case. They’re also good for dogs suffering from glaucoma and conjunctivitis.

Antibiotic drops

Work against a variety of eye problems in dogs and also help prevent secondary infections.

Oral medications

The vet may prescribe oral medications if your dog is in a lot of pain.

Others

Artificial tears, e-collar, eye drops, etc. are some other preventive measures that you may have to take.

Final Thoughts

Remember, to give your dog the best quality of life possible it is important to be aware of any eye problems that they may have. Hopefully, these tips will have helped you spot and treat any hidden problems in your pup.