How do dogs get eyeworms?

Many dog owners first notice their pup squinting, rubbing their eye, or having discharge—and wonder how they picked up eyeworms. These tiny parasites live in a dog’s eye, and while they’re treatable, knowing how they spread helps you keep your pet safe. It also ties to local rules, since some regions require regular parasite checks to prevent the spread of pests between animals.

Dogs don’t get eyeworms directly from other dogs—they need a middleman: flies. When a fly lands on an infected dog’s eye, it picks up tiny eyeworm larvae. Later, that fly lands on your dog’s eye and deposits the larvae, which then grow into adult worms. Think of a summer day at the park: your Lab sniffs a patch of grass where an infected stray was, a fly buzzes by, and the cycle starts. This is why many areas recommend keeping dogs away from areas with lots of flies, like garbage bins or stagnant water.

Another way dogs get eyeworms is through contact with other infected animals—indirectly. If your dog plays with a cat or fox that has eyeworms, and a fly transfers larvae between them, your pup can catch it. This matters for dog parks, where most regions require pets to be up-to-date on parasite preventatives. Even a quick play session with an unvaccinated dog could put your pet at risk, so always ask other owners about their dog’s health before letting them interact.

Outdoor habits play a role too. Dogs that love to dig, roll in grass, or chase bugs are more likely to attract flies carrying larvae. After a hike in wooded areas—where flies thrive—wipe your dog’s face with a damp cloth to remove any flies or debris. Some local laws even require cleaning your dog’s paws and face after outdoor trips to prevent parasite spread, especially in areas with high eyeworm cases.

Preventing eyeworms also means staying on top of vet visits. Most regions mandate annual parasite screenings, and vets can prescribe topical treatments that repel flies and kill larvae. If you notice signs like red eyes or excessive tearing, don’t wait—untreated eyeworms can lead to vision loss, and delaying care might violate local animal welfare laws that require owners to address their pet’s health issues promptly.

Understanding how dogs get eyeworms lets you take simple steps to protect your pup. From wiping their face after walks to keeping up with vet visits and following local park rules, you’ll cut down on their risk. With a little vigilance, you can keep your dog’s eyes healthy and avoid the hassle of treating an eyeworm infection.