Dog Eye Infections: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment

Eye infections in dogs are a common health issue, and as a pet parent, you should know what to do if your pet develops this problem.

As a mobile veterinarian with BetterVet, I will share with you what causes dog eye infections, how to identify the signs, and when you should see a veterinarian.

Key Takeaways:

Dog eye infections can be caused by bacteria, viruses, allergies, trauma, or foreign bodies.
Symptoms of dog eye infections include redness, swelling, discharge, and excessive tearing.
Treatment options include medications prescribed by a veterinarian.
Home remedies should not replace professional care.
Preventative measures can help reduce the risk of dog eye infections.

Let's dive in.

What are Eye Infections in Dogs?

Eye infections in dogs refers to inflammation caused by bacteria or viruses. There are a variety of different types and causes of dog eye infections, each needing a specific treatment. Most conditions require veterinary attention, and some need further investigation to find the underlying cause.

Types of Dog Eye Infections

There are several different types of eye infections in dogs, and usually a dog with an eye infection will have noticeable symptoms like eye redness, swelling, and irritation.

The most common types of eye infections in dogs are:

Canine Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis in dogs is the inflammation of the conjunctiva, the lining that protects the eye globe and eyelids. While it can develop from bacterial and viral infections, conjunctivitis refers to inflammation and irritation rather than the cause.

Conjunctivitis can be secondary to another problem affecting the eye.

Allergic Conjunctivitis

An allergic reaction to environmental substances, such as pollen or grasses can trigger this type of eye problem. The eyes may be pinkish, accompanied by sneezing and tearing or other discharge from the eyes.

Viral Eye Infections

Your dog could be suffering from an eye infection caused by a viral disease like distemper or canine herpesvirus.

Bacterial Eye Infections

Bacterial eye infections are caused by common environmental bacteria and some bacterial illnesses and diseases. Bacteria can also penetrate the eye through injury or trauma.

Fungal Eye Infections

Just like it sounds, fungal eye infections are caused by fungi from the environment that can affect a dog's eyes, leading to inflammation.

Causes of Eye Infections in Dogs

In my experience there are many factors that can lead to canine eye infections, including environmental, illness, disease, or injury.

Here are some common causes of dog eye infections:

Bacteria and viruses from the environment and other pets.
An allergic reaction due to environmental substances like chemicals, pollen, dust mites, or mold.
Trauma or injury, for example, if your dog accidentally scratched their eyes, something poked them such as a stick, or if the eyes were in contact with a chemical (like certain shampoos).
Foreign bodies like a speck of dirt, bits of metal, or tiny pieces of glass and wood can damage the eyes’ surface and lead to a bacterial infection.
Non-infectious conditions, such as cataracts, uveitis, and glaucoma may look like an eye infection.

Signs of Infections in Dog Eyes

If your dog's eye is infected, you may observe one or more of the signs and symptoms below. Any issue with your dog’s eyes should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

Common signs of a dog eye infection include:

Redness and inflammation
Swelling of eye area
Eye looks closed
Excessive tears
Abnormal discharge - yellow or green
Itchiness or signs of pain - pawing at the eye or rubbing on the ground
Blinking more frequently

When Are Dog Eye Infections Serious?

Dog eye infection is serious if your dog has pain, excessive discharge, can't open their eyes, has no energy, or has a fever. However, any eye irritation or injury should be conveyed to your veterinarian right away so that they can guide you on the next steps to take.

Diagnosing Dog Eye Infections

As part of the diagnostic evaluation process for a dog eye infection, your veterinarian may:

Conduct a thorough physical examination of your pet. This includes the outer parts of the eyes, such as the cornea, eyelids, and tear ducts as well as using an ophthalmoscope to look inside the eye.
Look at your dog's medical history to trace any recurring issues, especially allergies.
Order tests, such as imaging, blood tests, and bacterial cultures, to determine the infection’s cause.
Apply a special stain to the eye to check for corneal damage.

Treating a Dog's Eye Infection

Depending on the cause of your dog’s eye irritation and infection, your veterinarian may prescribe topical and/or oral medications for your furry friend, such as:

Antibiotics to treat the infection
Topical treatments, such as steroid or antibiotic eye drops
Antiviral medications for virus-related infections
Antifungal medications
Allergy management and antihistamines for allergy symptoms
Eye drops to stimulate tear production for dry eyes

Home Remedies for Eye Infections in Dogs

Any canine eye irritation or infection is a reason to have your pup evaluated by a veterinarian.

However there are some vet-approved tips I can share with you to try at home to keep your dog as comfortable as possible:

Gently clear the eyes of discharge with a moist towel.
A warm or cool compress may help relieve itching or pain.
Use a cone (Elizabethan collar) to keep your dog from pawing at their eyes.
Dog eye wash or saline solution can clear your dog’s eye of debris and irritants, but is only a temporary solution until your pet can be examined by your veterinarian.

Preventing Your Pup from Getting an Eye Infection

Most eye infections require medical help, but there are ways to help prevent them. Here are some tips for keeping your dog’s eyes healthy and infection-free:

Use a tearless shampoo when bathing your dog and avoid the eye area.
Schedule an Allergy and Dermatology exam with a veterinarian to determine if your dog has an allergy.
Minimize exposure to irritants and allergens.
Isolate a sick pet from others to avoid transmission of bacteria and viruses, and disinfect the areas where they usually roam.

Conclusion

Dog eye infections are a common health condition, and as pet parents, it’s important to know the signs and symptoms in order to assess and treat your dog appropriately.

Our mobile veterinarians examine pets in their homes, minimizing any further discomfort while being evaluated. Book an in-home sick visit if you have any concerns about the health of your furry friend.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are dog eye infections contagious?

Eye infections caused by bacteria and viruses can be contagious. Allergies are not contagious.

Can a dog's eye infection heal on its own?

A veterinarian should treat eye infections. Untreated eye infections may lead to more serious problems and long-term damage.

How long will it take for my dog's eye infection to go away?

Depending on the type and cause, dog eye infections can take a week to a month to go away once treatment has been initiated.

Can a dog eye infection spread to humans?

It’s possible. Some bacterial infections could be transmitted to humans, so washing your hands before and after contact with your dog's infected eye is essential.

Should I take my dog to the ER for an eye infection?

Your veterinarian can guide you on the best plan for your dog, so reach out to them right away. If it is after hours and your regular veterinarian cannot be reached, it would be best to have your dog evaluated at the nearest emergency vet clinic.

Are certain dog breeds more susceptible to eye infections?

Yes. Long-haired breeds such as a Saint Bernard, Sheepdog, Poodle, and Maltese can be more at risk of eye infection and irritation. Active dogs are also more likely to suffer from an eye injury or infection due to their lifestyle.

Sources

Nadăș GC, Novac CȘ, Matei IA, Bouari CM, Gal ZM, Tamas-Krumpe OM, Macri AM, Fiț NI. Prevalence of Antimicrobial Resistant Bacteria from Conjunctival Flora in an Eye Infection Prone Breed (Saint Bernard). Molecules. 2021 Apr 12;26(8):2219. doi: 10.3390/molecules26082219. PMID: 33921409; PMCID: PMC8070223.
Alsaad, Kamal. (2021). A Common Problems Of Dog Eyes (A Review). IOSR Journal of Agriculture and Veterinary Science. 14. 19-26. 10.9790/2380-1407021926.

Dog Eye Infections: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment

Table of Contents

What are Eye Infections in Dogs?

Should My Pet Be Seen by a Veterinarian?

1. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s appetite?

2. Does your pet have diarrhea or loose stools?

3. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s thirst/water consumption?

4. Is your pet having accidents in the house?

5. Is your pet pacing and unable to settle?

6. Is your pet panting more than usual?

7. Is your pet whining or vocalizing more than usual?

8. Is your pet shaking more than usual?

9. Is your pet hiding or avoiding physical contact more than usual?

10. Is your pet more lethargic and sleeping more than usual?

11. Are you concerned about changes in your pet’s behavior?

12. Is your pet scratching their ears?

13. Is your pet licking their paws more than usual?

14. Does your pet have a rash?

15. Is your pet moving more slowly than usual or having a harder time getting up or down?

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