Why does my dog always have eye infections

You’ve probably stood over your pup, dabbing at their red, goopy eye for the third time this month, wondering: Why does this keep happening? As a new dog owner in the US, recurring eye infections can feel frustrating—like you’re missing something obvious. But it’s not just bad luck; most repeat infections have a root cause, and figuring it out is key to keeping your dog’s eyes bright and comfortable, while staying on top of responsible pet care.

Dogs get recurring eye infections because their eyes are vulnerable to specific triggers that don’t go away on their own. Let’s break it down: First, some breeds are born with “exposed” eyes—flat-faced dogs like Pugs or Bulldogs have eyes that stick out more, making them easy targets for dust, pollen, or even scratches from grass. My neighbor’s French Bulldog gets infections every spring because oak pollen irritates his eyes, and he can’t stop rubbing them. Second, allergies (seasonal or food-related) often cause eye inflammation—when their immune system overreacts, their eyes get red and leaky, creating a perfect home for bacteria. Third, blocked tear ducts mean tears (which clean eyes naturally) can’t drain, leading to buildup and infection. Even something as simple as a dirty water bowl or dusty apartment can irritate their eyes over time, turning a minor issue into a repeat problem.

Practical steps start with figuring out the trigger. First, visit your vet—they’ll check for blocked ducts, allergies, or breed-specific issues. My terrier’s vet found she had a tiny scratch on her cornea that kept getting infected; a week of antibiotic drops and avoiding tall grass fixed it. At home, keep their eyes clean: use a vet-recommended eye wipe (never human tissues, which are too rough) to gently dab away gunk every morning. If allergies are the culprit, wipe their face with a damp cloth after walks to remove pollen, and use an air purifier in your apartment to cut down on dust. For flat-faced breeds, consider a protective eye balm (ask your vet) to shield their eyes from irritants. Keep their water bowl clean and replace it daily—moldy water can spread bacteria to their eyes when they drink.

Legally, even eye infections don’t let you skip core responsibilities. Rabies vaccines, required in all US states for dogs over 3-4 months old, are non-negotiable—fines apply for lapsed shots, and a sick dog still needs this protection. When walking, always clean up their poop (fines up to $200 in cities like Seattle) to avoid spreading parasites that could indirectly affect their health. Culturally, kindness means no scolding: never yell at your dog for rubbing their eyes—they’re in pain, not misbehaving. Instead, reward them with a treat when they let you clean their eyes, turning a stressful task into positive reinforcement. In apartments, keep windows closed during high pollen days to protect their eyes, and let neighbors know if your dog is recovering—most will understand if you keep walks short to avoid irritation.

Recurring eye infections aren’t a life sentence. By working with your vet, cleaning regularly, and staying responsible, you’ll help your pup keep those bright eyes healthy for years to come.