Irritated Eyes in Dogs – Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
There are many causes and situations that can cause irritated eyes in dogs. In fact, eye problems in dogs are very common. Learn how to deal with irritated eyes in dogs.
What causes irritated eyes in dogs?
Usually, irritated eyes in dogs can be a response to an eye infection. This infection may be caused by an object falling into the eye or through contact with an infected dog. Other causes that cause our friend’s eyes to become irritated are:
- Conjunctivitis. This is actually a very common eye condition among dogs. The membrane of the eye becomes itchy and inflamed.
- Allergies. When our friends go allergic, their eyes will suffer too.
- Glaucoma.
- Scratched cornea.
- Entropion. This is a condition in which the eyelashes are turned inward instead of outward, causing continuous scratching against the eye’s cornea.
What are the symptoms of irritated eyes in dogs?
The most obvious sign that your dog has irritated eyes is redness. Besides this, he might blink rapidly and frequently. Most of the time, his eye will tear a lot and the dog will try to keep them closed. In some cases, there could also be a discharge of pus.
What is the treatment for irritated eyes in dogs?
If you notice that your dog’s eyes have redness, take him to the veterinarian. He will check on the dog´s eye and perform an ophthalmologic test to verify if there is an ulcer or any other eye disease present. If there is a more severe situation and the vet can´t find it, your veterinarian will send the dog to the veterinary ophthalmologist.
The most common treatment is an ointment or medicated drops. They usually act fast and your dog will be free from infection in very little time.
Now, you as an owner can take important measures to keep your dog from getting irritated eyes. Since there are so many ways for your dog to suffer irritated eyes, it is hard to take specific measures. However, there are some important things you can do about it. For instance, don´t ride your dog with his face sticking out the window. Even though it is fun, it can result in dirt falling into your dog´s eyes.
In Dogalize we care for our pets and yours. We have a complete list of tips and tricks on how to best take care of your four-legged comrade.