Conjunctivitis is one of the most common eye problems in dogs, and it won’t be surprising if your best friend has it. Also known as pink eye in dogs, this condition is caused by the inflammation of the conjunctiva, a thin layer that spans the white part of the eyeball.
Healthy eyes look white and normal, but eyes with conjunctivitis will appear red, swollen, and inflamed.
To help protect your dog against conjunctivitis, we’ll tell you everything about it, from its causes to how to treat conjunctivitis in dogs and how it’s prevented.
What Causes Conjunctivitis in Dogs?
When a dog has conjunctivitis, the root cause can vary widely. Here are the most common causes of canine conjunctivitis:
Bacteria
Bacterial conjunctivitis in dogs is most often caused by environmental bacteria such as Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and Pseudomonas. It rarely occurs on its own, as it usually develops as a secondary infection when the dog’s eye’s natural defenses are compromised. These bacterial infections can lead to serious clinical signs if untreated.
Viruses
Viral infections like canine distemper virus, canine herpesvirus, and canine adenovirus can cause pink eye in dogs. These airborne viruses often affect dogs with weaker immune systems, particularly puppies.
Common types of viruses that cause conjunctivitis include:
Canine herpesvirus
These viruses are often airborne or spread through direct contact, especially in environments where dogs are in close quarters. Sharing food, water bowls, toys, or bedding with infected dogs increases the risk of spreading these cases of conjunctivitis.
Allergies and Irritants
Allergic conjunctivitis in dogs is a common condition triggered by allergens such as pollen, mold, or dust. Other allergic reactions, such as sneezing or itchiness, often accompany it.
Environmental irritants, such as smoke or grooming products, can exacerbate allergic conjunctivitis, particularly in sensitive dogs.
Foreign Bodies and Injuries
Anything that physically irritates or injures the eye, like dust, debris, or a foreign object, can lead to inflammation of the conjunctiva. This often progresses into conjunctivitis if not promptly addressed.
Even a minor scratch can weaken your dog’s eye defenses and increase the risk of secondary bacterial infections or even corneal ulcers.
Health Conditions
Some dogs develop conjunctivitis due to underlying medical conditions, such as dry eye, canine entropion, blocked tear ducts, or eyelid deformities. These reduce the eye’s ability to self-clean, making them more prone to clinical signs of irritation and discharge from the eye.
Facial Structures
Certain breeds are genetically more susceptible to conjunctivitis due to their eye shape. Brachycephalic dogs such as Pugs, Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus have more exposed eyes, making it easier for allergens or a foreign object to cause pink eye in dogs.
What are the Symptoms of Conjunctivitis in Dogs?
Dogs with conjunctivitis normally display symptoms that are easy to spot. The signs of conjunctivitis are mostly visible around the eye in dogs. Here are the common signs of conjunctivitis in dogs:
Redness and Swelling. Pink eye causes the conjunctiva to become visibly red or pink due to inflammation and increased blood flow to the area. This also results in swelling of the tissues around the eyes. In some cases, the swelling may be significant enough to partially close the eye.
Discharge from the Eye. Depending on the cause of conjunctivitis, a dog’s eyes can have discharge. Clear tearing is often from allergies and irritants, while green or yellow mucus suggests a bacterial infection.
Crusting Around the Eye. When discharge dries, it forms crusts that can stick to the eyelids and eyelashes. These crusts can cause more irritation and make it harder for affected dogs to open their eyes.
Squinting or Excessive Blinking. Dogs with conjunctivitis will start to squint and blink more frequently as a response to the discomfort experienced.
Pawing at the Eye. In addition to frequent squinting, conjunctivitis can cause dogs to paw at their own eyes, trying to relieve the discomfort. This can worsen the issue by introducing more bacteria or injuries to the eye.
Sensitivity to Light. Eyes that are sensitive to light are also another possible symptom of conjunctivitis. If your dog has conjunctivitis, you might notice them trying to avoid rooms with bright light, while seeking shelter in dimly lit rooms and areas under sofas.
All of these clinical signs may indicate that your dog has conjunctivitis, and prompt action is necessary to prevent the condition from worsening.
How is Conjunctivitis in Dogs Diagnosed?
To determine what’s causing your dog’s eye inflammation, we use various diagnostic tests. These are the methods we use to diagnose dog pink eye:
Physical Eye Examination
We will begin with a close visual exam of your dog’s eyes, eyelids, and surrounding tissues. Our vets will check for any signs of swelling, redness, or discharge. We’ll also ask you about your dog’s behavior at home.
Eye Staining Test
An eye staining test, which uses orange dye and a special blue light, can help locate scratches or corneal ulcers on the surface of the eye. Any damage will be highlighted green under this diagnostic method.
Schirmer Tear Test
If dry eye is suspected, we may perform a Schirmer tear test to assess your dog’s tear production. In this test, a small strip of paper is placed under the lower eyelid, measuring moisture produced in a minute.
Cytology and Culture
Cytology is a method in which we collect a sample of cells from the conjunctiva to examine under a microscope. This can determine any signs of inflammation and bacterial infection that might be causing your dog’s conjunctivitis.
For more recurrent cases, a culture and sensitivity test will be done. This can help determine the specific pathogen and decide the best medication for it.
Allergy Testing
Identifies potential allergic reactions that might be causing allergic conjunctivitis. One method used is intradermal skin testing, which involves injecting a specific and small amount of allergens into the skin.
How to Treat Conjunctivitis in Dogs?
Treating conjunctivitis depends on the root cause:
Bacterial Conjunctivitis
Antibiotic eye drops and ointments are the commonly used medications for bacterial conjunctivitis. Severe bacterial infections may require oral medications. Treatment generally lasts 5 to 7 days.
Viral Conjunctivitis
Viral conjunctivitis is quite tricky to cure, as there isn’t a definitive treatment. In some cases, antiviral medications are prescribed.
Supportive care is the general option for affected dogs, and this includes frequent eye cleaning, lubricating drops, and antibiotics to prevent secondary infections. This is especially critical in dogs with weak immune systems.
Allergic Conjunctivitis
For conjunctivitis caused by allergies, we generally prescribe an antihistamine, steroid eye drops, and sometimes oral allergy medications. Eye lubricants can also be used to help relieve irritation and discomfort.
Environmental adjustments and avoiding triggers help improve recovery when a dog has conjunctivitis caused by allergies.
Eye Injuries
When dog pink eye is triggered by trauma or a foreign object, we first remove the irritant and assess the damage. Lubricating drops, anti-inflammatory medications, and e-collars can help with recovery.
Health Conditions
For dry eye, we prescribe tear stimulants. If the dog’s eye issue is structural, surgical intervention may be required.
How is Conjunctivitis in Dogs Prevented?
Protecting your dog from conjunctivitis is a much better route than treating it. Here’s how you can do it:
Keep the Eyes Clean
Wipe any discharge from the eye with a damp, clean cloth to remove dirt, allergens, or discharge. Regularly cleaning their eyes, especially if they frequently go outside to play or exercise.
Avoid Environmental Irritants
Limit your dog’s exposure to smoke, dust, chemicals, and strong cleaning products. Make sure to hide any form of chemical away from your dog’s reach. When administering eye medication, always wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling your pet.
Groom Around the Eyes
Regularly grooming your dog helps reduce the chances of lashes or fur rubbing against the surface of the eyes. This is especially needed for long-haired breeds.
Have Your Dog Vaccinated Regularly
Routine vaccinations can help prevent viral infections, such as canine distemper, and lower the chance of pink eye in dogs. This can significantly reduce the risk of viral conjunctivitis, even in cramped areas.
Manage Your Dog’s Allergies
If your dog has known allergies, work with us on allergy testing, medication, and diet adjustments can prevent allergic conjunctivitis in dogs over the long term. This can include dietary changes, environmental adjustments, and medication.
“A dog’s eyes express trust, curiosity, and love. Protecting the way they see the world starts with proper care and prevention.”
- Dr. Nenad Misura
Conclusion
Conjunctivitis is common and treatable, but it should never be ignored. If you notice clinical signs like discharge from the eye, swelling, or squinting, your dog has conjunctivitis and needs immediate care. With early detection and personalized treatment, treating conjunctivitis becomes simpler, and your dog’s eye health stays intact.
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