Eye infections in dogs can happen quickly and catch pet owners off guard. A dog’s eyes are delicate, easily getting 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. 

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.

What Are the Common Causes of Dog Eye Infection?

An infection of the dog's eye is caused by several factors, including:

Bacteria

Bacteria are a common cause of eye infections in dogs, leading to conditions like conjunctivitis. These pathogens can enter through injuries, scratches, or even when the dog rubs its eye. 

Bacterial eye infections in dogs often result in thick yellow or green discharge, redness, and swelling.

Common types of bacteria that cause dog eye infections include Staphylococcus and Streptococcus. These are highly contagious, meaning they can easily spread to other dogs. 

Viruses

Viruses are also another common cause of eye infections, either as a primary issue or a symptom of a much broader issue. The effects usually involve more than the eye itself, with the respiratory system being affected as well. 

Common types of viruses that cause dog eye infections are canine distemper virus, canine herpesvirus-1, and canine adenovirus type 1. 

Fungi

While rare, fungal infections can also be a cause. These types of infections in the dog's eye happen when their immune systems get compromised or when they are exposed to contaminated environments. These places are those that are damp and moist. 

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

Dirt, grass seeds, and other small objects can get in the eye, causing pain and inflammation. This leads to eye infections in dogs, especially those who love to run and play outdoors. Even minor trauma, such as small scratches, can lead to an eye 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

A dry eye can also be a trigger for dog eye infections. This happens because the reduced tear production makes the eye more susceptible to an infection. Normally, tears can lubricate the eyes and wash away irritants. In dogs with dry eye syndrome, the defenses are lowered. 

The condition is common in breeds like Shih Tzus, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and Yorkshire Terriers.

Facial Structures

Certain dog breeds are more likely to develop eye infections because of their facial anatomy. Dogs with bulging eyes and brachycephalic facial structures are more prone to eye infections because they have trouble with tear drainage and are exposed to airborne particles more.

Dogs with these structures are also prone to dry eyes, which then increases the risk of eye infections. This includes breeds like Pugs, Shih Tzus, Boxers, and English Bulldogs.

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. Long-haired dogs are also susceptible because their long fur traps moisture, debris, and bacteria, while easily touching their eyes. 

What Are the Symptoms of Eye Infections in Dogs?

Some symptoms are often chalked up to some mild irritation. However, these can sometimes be signs of something more serious.

Here are the signs of dog eye infections:

• Redness and Swelling. The presence of redness and swelling is among the most obvious signs of an eye problem, like an infection. These may appear around the eyelids or in the tissues surrounding the eye.

• Eye Discharge. In some cases, discharge can come from the eye. The texture and color will depend on the causative agent. Viral eye infections have a clear and watery texture, while bacterial agents cause a thick, yellow/green discharge.

• Excessive Squinting and Blinking. Dogs who excessively blink, squint, or have noticeable discomfort in their eyes are often experiencing some sort of eye problem. This can be a sign of an eye infection in dogs. 

• Pawing and Rubbing at the Eyes. Dogs with eye discomfort often try to relieve it by pawing at their face or rubbing their head on furniture. While it may offer momentary relief, this can also 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.

Is Dog Eye Infection an Emergency?

Not every eye infection in dogs is an emergency, but it should always be treated as one. Mild redness and discharge can be concerning. Plus, excessive scratching and pawing at the eyes can worsen the issue, potentially leading to corneal ulcers. 

Infections are also unpredictable, meaning that they can worsen at any time. Dealing with the problem right away solves any future complications.