How to naturally treat a dog’s eye infection

If you’ve ever leaned in to greet your pup and noticed their eye looks red and puffy, with a sticky, yellowish discharge clinging to their lashes, you’re probably worried—and wondering if there’s a gentle, natural way to help. A new dog parent in Texas texted me last week, describing her 10-month-old lab mix: “Her left eye is all goopy, and she keeps rubbing it, but I hate the idea of harsh meds. Are there natural things that work?” Mild eye infections—think early-stage redness from allergies or a tiny bit of bacterial irritation—can sometimes be soothed with natural remedies, but it’s key to know what’s safe, what’s not, and when to call the vet. Let’s break it down.

First, let’s talk about why eyes get infected. Most often, it’s bacteria (like staph) or yeast taking advantage of a warm, moist environment—maybe after a swim, a dusty walk, or even a scratch from a leaf. Allergies to pollen or dust can also irritate the eye, making it more prone to infection. Natural remedies work best on these mild, early cases by calming inflammation or gently fighting off small amounts of bacteria. Think of them like a warm compress for a human eye—soothing, but not a cure-all for serious issues. A 2023 study in Veterinary Holistic Medicine found that certain plant-based ingredients (like chamomile and aloe) can reduce redness and swelling in mild cases, thanks to their anti-inflammatory properties.

Let’s start with the gentlest option: chamomile tea. Steep 1 organic chamomile tea bag in 1 cup of hot water, then let it cool completely (never use warm liquid—you could burn their eye). Once cool, dip a clean cotton ball in the tea and gently wipe the area around the eye, focusing on the goopy discharge. For a rinse, use a sterile dropper to place 1-2 drops in the corner of the eye—let your pup blink to spread it. My neighbor in Colorado swears by this for her golden retriever’s seasonal eye irritation: “After a dusty hike, a chamomile wipe keeps his eyes from getting crusty. He sits still because I give him a treat afterward.”

Aloe vera (100% pure, no additives) is another safe bet. It has mild antibacterial properties and soothes irritated skin. Use a clean finger to dab a tiny amount (like a grain of rice) on the outer edge of the eye—never put it directly in the eye. Avoid “aloe blends” with alcohol or fragrances, which can sting. A friend in Arizona uses this for her shih tzu: “Her eyes get red from the dry air, and aloe takes the edge off—plus, it’s safe if she licks a little off.”

Proper cleaning is key, too. Use a soft, damp cloth (unscented baby wipes work) to gently wipe away discharge 2-3 times a day. This removes bacteria and keeps the area from getting crusty, which can worsen irritation. Always wipe from the inner corner (near the nose) outward to avoid pushing gunk into the eye.

But here’s what to never use: apple cider vinegar, honey, or essential oils. These are too harsh for a dog’s delicate eye tissue—vinegar burns, honey can attract more bacteria, and oils (like tea tree) are toxic if absorbed. Stick to the gentle stuff.

Making this a positive experience matters. Dogs hate having their eyes touched, so never pin them down or scold them if they squirm. Instead, start with short sessions: offer a high-value treat (freeze-dried liver works) while you briefly touch their cheek, then reward. As they relax, slowly work up to wiping or applying remedies. A rescue dog I worked with in Portland used to flinch when anyone came near her eyes—now she leans in, tail wagging, because she knows a treat is coming. Stress makes infections worse, so patience beats pressure.

Let’s tie this to real-world responsibility. Legally, keeping your dog’s rabies vaccine current (required in all U.S. states) supports their overall immune health—a strong immune system fights off infections better. When out walking, if your dog has an eye infection, skip the dog park to avoid spreading bacteria to other pups. Always carry poop bags, even if you’re focused on their eye—fines for leaving waste hit $250 in Seattle, and it’s just good manners.

In apartments, keep the air clean: dust regularly, avoid smoking indoors, and change air filters monthly—dust and smoke irritate eyes, making infections harder to heal. If your pup’s eye is weepy, place a clean towel under their favorite napping spot to catch discharge—your landlord will thank you.

But here’s the bottom line: natural remedies work only for mild, early cases. If their eye is swollen shut, has thick green/yellow discharge, or they’re squinting in pain, call the vet. These could be signs of a bacterial infection that needs prescription drops, or even a scratch on the cornea. A vet in Ohio once told me: “I’ve seen dogs lose vision because owners waited too long to treat a serious infection with ‘natural’ fixes.”

At the end of the day, natural treatments are gentle helpers, not replacements for professional care. With chamomile, aloe, and lots of treats, you can soothe mild irritation—and know when it’s time to let the vet take over.