What does a dog's eye look like when it's infected?

Your dog’s eyes say a lot—including when something’s off. Spotting an infected eye early can save them discomfort, and it’s key for following local pet care rules too.

Noticing changes in your dog’s eyes can be scary, but catching signs of infection early helps keep them comfortable—and avoids issues that might violate local pet health regulations. An infected eye often looks red or pink, like someone’s been rubbing it too hard, and you might see swelling around the eyelid edges. Some dogs get a thick discharge, too—sometimes clear and watery, other times yellow or green, which can crust over their lashes overnight.

You might also notice your dog squinting a lot, or keeping one eye half-closed, because light starts to bother them. They might paw at their face more than usual, trying to soothe the itch or irritation. If you’re walking them in a park or neighborhood, keep an eye out for these signs—many areas require pets to be in good health in public spaces, and an untreated eye infection could spread to other dogs during playtime.

It’s important to know the difference between a mild irritation and a serious infection. For example, if your dog’s eye only looks a little pink after playing in grass (maybe from pollen), it might clear up on its own. But if the redness sticks around for more than a day, or if the discharge gets thicker, that’s a sign to call your vet. In some places, skipping vet care for a contagious infection could lead to fines, since it risks other animals’ health.

When you take your dog to the vet, they might check for common causes like conjunctivitis or a foreign object stuck under the eyelid. They’ll probably ask about recent activities—like whether your dog swam in a lake (which can introduce bacteria) or played with other dogs. Following their treatment plan, like giving eye drops on schedule, isn’t just for your dog’s comfort—it’s part of keeping up with local pet welfare laws that require owners to address health issues promptly.

Watching for changes in your dog’s eyes becomes second nature once you know what to look for. A quick daily check—while you’re petting them or giving them a treat—can spot early signs before the infection gets worse. Not only does this keep your dog happy and healthy, but it also makes sure you’re following local rules that keep all pets and people safe in shared spaces. Your dog can’t tell you when their eye hurts, so being their advocate is one of the most important parts of being a responsible owner.