Dogs experience many of the same kinds of eye problems that people
do, and many eye problems in dogs are inherited. Most breeds tend
to have at least one inherited eye problem.
Eye Problems and Your Dog
Dogs experience many of the same kinds of eye problems that people
do. Glaucoma, cataracts, conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers, and
retinal degeneration are just some of the common conditions that
could affect your dog at some point in her life.
Many eye problems in dogs are inherited. Most breeds tend to have
at least one inherited eye problem. For example, poodles and cocker
spaniels are prone to developing cataracts, while shar-peis and
chow chows are prone to entropion (a deformity in which the eyelid
rolls under).
Eye trauma is a frequent problem in dogs as well. Scratches from
other pets or underbrush as well as other kinds of accidental
injuries are common. The eye is a delicate structure, and even
minor problems can quickly progress into more serious ones. While
few eye problems are potentially life threatening, delayed or
improper care can result in vision impairment or even loss.
How Can I Tell?
If your dog has a discharge from her eyes, especially for more than
a day or so, have her eyes checked by your veterinarian. In
addition, if you notice your dog rubbing her eyes, bumping into
things, acting confused, or displaying unusual behavior such as
confusion or aggression, a veterinary vision check may be
appropriate. Other signs of a potential eye problem include teary
eyes, a cloudy or opaque appearance to the eyes, squinting,
redness, or inactivity or unwillingness to play if she is normally
quite active.
Why Do My Dog's Eyes Glow At
Night?
It's because of a specialized structure called a tapetum. Most
animals that are active at night have this special, additional
layer underneath their retina. This reflective structure acts like
a mirror and reflects light back into your pet's retina to
enhance night vision.
Common Eye Problems
As she ages, your dog's eyes may take on a slightly hazy,
bluish cast. While this normal phenomenon is due to a thickening of
the lens fibers in the eyes and will likely not affect vision,
there are some eye conditions in dogs that can become serious if
not treated.
Cataracts are very common in dogs, especially as they age.
Cataracts should be suspected if you notice a blue, gray, or
whitish tinge to your dog's eyes. The condition is especially
common in pets suffering from diabetes or in those that have had
some type of eye injury in the past. While many pets will develop
cataracts by the time they reach their older years, most will be
able to manage well despite them. For those pets that seem
particularly troubled by them, however, cataracts can be surgically
removed.
Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the membrane that lines your
dog's eyelids and the front of the sclera (the white part of
the eye). A very common condition in dogs, conjunctivitis causes
the eye to become reddened and sore. A watery discharge may be
present, and your dog may attempt to rub one or both of her eyes.
Conjunctivitis is frequently caused by an irritant, such as a small
piece of plant material, grit, or fur, becoming lodged in the
conjunctival tissue of the eye.
Glaucoma is a buildup of eye fluid and pressure within the eye. It
can be painful for affected pets and can lead to partial or total
blindness. Just like in people, however, glaucoma can be easily
treated with medication.
A corneal ulcer is a wound on the surface of the eye. Signs of an
ulcer include squinting, redness, cloudiness, and tearing. Your
veterinarian can use a special green eye stain to detect the
presence of a suspected ulcer on your pet's cornea. Corneal
ulcers can be a concern because some may be very slow to heal.
Prevention is the Best Medicine
The best way to prevent eye problems in your dog is to use common
sense. Do not allow your dog to lean her head outside a moving
vehicle, inspect her eyes on a regular basis, and make sure her
annual veterinary visit includes a thorough eye exam. And of
course, if you suspect your dog has an eye problem, be sure to
contact your veterinarian immediately. © Veterinary Learning
Systems 2006
Pet Care
