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What kind of eye problems can dogs have?

Dogs rely on their eyes to explore parks, catch frisbees, and even beg for treats from the couch—but those peepers are more vulnerable than you might think.
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Dogs rely on their eyes to explore parks, catch frisbees, and even beg for treats from the couch—but those peepers are more vulnerable than you might think. From dry, scratchy surfaces during winter walks to pollen floating in spring air, everyday moments can trigger eye issues that need attention. In many places, keeping your dog’s health in check (including their eyes) ties into local pet ownership laws—missing signs of trouble could not only hurt your pup but also put you out of compliance.

One common issue is conjunctivitis, or “pink eye,” which makes the whites of the eyes red and sticky. You might notice your dog rubbing their face on the carpet or squinting when they go outside; this isn’t just discomfort—it can be caused by bacteria, allergies, or even a foreign object like a grass seed. If left untreated, it could lead to more serious infections, and in some regions, letting a contagious condition linger might violate rules about preventing the spread of pet illnesses.

Corneal ulcers are another risk, especially for breeds with protruding eyes like Pugs or Shih Tzus. A small scratch from a branch or a rough play session with another dog can turn into a painful ulcer, and you’ll likely see excessive tearing or cloudiness in the eye. Acting fast is key here—vets often prescribe medication to prevent scarring, and delaying care might mean your dog needs more intensive treatment. Remember, many local laws require prompt veterinary care for obvious signs of pain or injury in pets.

Dry eye, or keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is easy to miss at first. Instead of tearing up, your dog’s eyes might look dull or have a thick, yellow discharge. This happens when the eyes don’t make enough moisture, often due to immune issues or medication side effects. Without treatment, it can lead to vision loss, and since it’s a chronic condition, keeping up with vet visits to manage it aligns with most areas’ requirements for ongoing pet health care.

Watching for these signs—redness, squinting, discharge, cloudiness, or excessive rubbing—helps keep your dog happy and healthy, while also following local pet laws. Regular check-ups with your vet can catch issues early, and simple steps like wiping your dog’s eyes after walks (to remove pollen or dirt) go a long way. Your dog can’t tell you when their eyes hurt, so it’s up to you to be their advocate—and staying on top of their eye health is part of being a responsible pet owner, no matter where you live.

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