Eye infections in dogs can happen quickly and catch pet owners off guard. A dog’s eyes are delicate, easily irritated by the smallest of problems. What starts as a little bit of redness and scratching can progress to something more serious if not given attention.
Key Takeaways
Dog eye infections can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, foreign bodies, trauma, allergies, facial structures, dry eye, and other eye conditions.
They’re treated with eye cleaning, specific medications, and supportive care.
Prevention includes eye cleaning, grooming, home cleaning, and regular eye exams.
What Are the Symptoms of Eye Infections in Dogs?
Common signs manifest as signs of irritation and discomfort. These include:
Redness and Swelling. Redness on the white part of the eye and the surrounding tissues may be present, along with swelling in these areas.
Eye Discharge. Thick, yellow/green discharge indicates bacterial eye infections, while clear discharge signals viral causes.
Excessive Squinting and Blinking. Dogs may instinctively squint or blink due to the irritation they feel from the eye infection.
Pawing and Rubbing at the Eyes. Some dogs may even paw at their eyes or rub them on furniture and nearby objects. Excessive scratching can make the infection worse.
Changes in Eye Appearance. Eye infections, along with constant rubbing, can cause a cloudy appearance in the dog’s eye. This usually indicates a much deeper issue, like corneal damage.
Behavioral Changes. Dogs with eye infections are noticeably unhappy and uncomfortable. They may lose interest in activities, flinch when touched on the face, and keep their heads low to avoid bright light.
Are Dog Eye Infections an Emergency?
Yes, these are considered emergencies because of the high risk of eye infections worsening. Additionally, the symptoms may become more severe, and affected dogs may persistently scratch their eyes, potentially leading to corneal ulcers.
It’s best to get your dog the help they need the moment you notice the symptoms.
What Causes Dog Eye Infections?
Canine eye infections can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, foreign objects, trauma, allergies, and several health issues.
Bacteria
Bacterial eye infections in dogs are among the most common, usually involving Staphylococcus and Streptococcus. They are also the usual suspects in canine conjunctivitis. Bacteria generally enter through scratches and sores, where they can easily multiply on the surface of the eye.
Viruses
Viruses infect a dog’s eye by invading the cells of the eye tissues and damaging them. They can also cause respiratory infections, which spread into the dog’s eyes. Viruses may also compromise the immune system, making secondary infections highly likely.
Common viruses that cause dog eye infections include canine distemper virus, canine herpesvirus-1, and canine adenovirus type 1.
Fungi
Eye infections in dogs may also be caused by fungi, even though they aren't as common as bacterial or viral agents. This happens when the fungal spores enter the eye, which can come from the moist outdoor environments.
Common fungal agents that cause eye infections in dogs include Malassezia, Cryptococcus, and Aspergillus. These can affect deeper eye tissues, causing more problems in the long run.
Foreign Material and Trauma
Foreign bodies and injuries may trigger eye infections in dogs by irritating the eye surface and even causing damage. These open sores and scratches provide opportunities for bacteria to enter and cause infection.
Allergies
Allergic reactions to pollen, dust mites, mold, or food can lead to inflammation, itchiness, and excessive eye rubbing. As a result, the eye experiences constant irritation, making it vulnerable to infection, especially the bacterial kind.
Dry Eye
Dry eye is a condition in which the eyes lack tears. Tears contain antibodies and enzymes that help cleanse the eye, remove debris, and protect against bacteria. In dogs with dry eye, this protective layer is significantly lessened, increasing the risk of eye infections.
The condition is common in breeds like Shih Tzus, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and Yorkshire Terriers.
Facial Structures
Certain dog breeds are more prone to developing eye infections because of their facial structures. Brachycephalic breeds, for instance, have prominent eyes and flat faces, causing trouble with tear drainage and making the eyes susceptible to infection.
Long-haired dogs are also susceptible because their long fur traps moisture, debris, and bacteria, and their fur easily touches their eyes.
Other Eye Conditions
Similarly, dogs with entropion, ectropion, and cherry eye are also susceptible to eye infections. Basically, anything that damages the dog’s eyes and makes them prone to eye infections is a risk factor.
Breeds commonly affected by eye issues include Great Danes, Cocker Spaniels, Saint Bernards, and Chow Chows.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about dog eye infections. The sooner you know, the faster you can help your dog recover.
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