How to tell if your dog has an eye infection

Dogs can get eye infections just like humans can, and there are multiple causes and symptoms. Luckily, your veterinarian can provide treatment options for a dog eye infection and help prevent severe damage.

This article will provide an overview of eye infections in dogs, explain how to tell if your dog has an eye infection and recommend courses of treatment and prevention.

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms of a dog eye infection include redness, swelling and thick, dry or otherwise unusual discharge. You may also notice your dog blinking or holding the affected eye shut, pawing or rubbing at the eye or reacting strongly to light.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it’s a good idea to contact your veterinarian. These signs can indicate eye infections as well as other conditions that look like eye infections but aren’t.

What causes a dog eye infection

Your pup can get a dog eye infection in many ways. An infection can be caused by bacteria, fungi, parasites, viruses such as canine influenza, irritants, scratches on the cornea or foreign matter like dust getting into the eye.

Conditions like dry eye can also cause Infection-like symptoms, tear duct problems common in cocker spaniels and poodles and Cherry eye, which occurs when a dog’s protective third eyelid protrudes.

Certain breeds are predisposed to dog eye infections and other eye problems, including Maltese, Pekinese, Shih Tzus and Pugs. Breed, genetics and eye positioning can all contribute to risk for eye infections.

How can you help your dog?

If you think your dog might have an eye infection, contact your veterinarian immediately. Your vet can recommend treatments for different types of infections. If severe or chronic issues like an allergy or tumor cause your dog’s symptoms, your vet also can help you figure out how to address the root problem. Make sure to follow instructions, administering medicines only as directed.

To prevent future eye infections, keep your dog well-groomed, watch out for symptoms and help your dog avoid irritants and injury by closing your car windows while you drive and exercising caution when letting your dog play outside.

By being aware of the symptoms and checking your dog’s eyes regularly, you can help keep your pet safe and healthy.

Emily Folk is a pet blogger and avid dog lover. You can read more of her work on her blog, Conservation Folks.