If your dog has gunk or goo coming from their eyes, you know exactly how disgusting it can be. When you see slimy discharge around the house, on furniture, fabric or other surfaces, you probably find it a little gross – but you might also be wondering whether your furry friend needs help from you to solve the problem.
At Dan’s Pet Care, we’ve cared for dogs with many different types of eye discharge. In some cases, there’s nothing to worry about. In other cases, a trip to the vet’s office is recommended. Keep reading to learn more about four common reasons for eye discharge in dogs and what you can do to help in each case.
Breeds That Tend To Have More Eye Discharge
Before we discuss different types of discharge, it’s important to note that your dog’s breed can play a key role in determining how much eye gunk they produce. Eight breeds that tend to struggle with excessive eye discharge include:
Rottweilers
Pugs
Beagles
Boxers
English Bullsogs
French Bulldogs
Pekingese
Cocker spaniels
Do you own a breed with a flat face, loose skin folds, or other genetic traits that tend to cause eye problems? If so, monitor them extra closely for signs of trouble, and be proactive about seeking veterinary care when problems arise.
Should I Always Worry About Eye Discharge?
All dogs produce some eye discharge, and it’s not necessarily a sign of trouble. However, if you notice any changes to your dog’s eye discharge, or if there are any signs that your dog is uncomfortable, it’s time to consider the eye problems your dog may be suffering from. A sudden increase or absence of discharge, a change in consistency or color, or the presence of blood are sure warning signs.
Eye Discharge Due To Allergies
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies to a wide range of substances. Your dog could be allergic to mold, pollen, dust, or other environmental irritants. Your veterinarian can prescribe allergy medication that may give your dog lasting relief. You may also need to apply eye drops that contain steroids or ingredients that stimulate your dog’s natural tears.
Conjunctivitis
In humans, conjunctivitis is often known as pinkeye. Dogs can suffer from this condition, too, and the symptoms are often similar. You might notice:
Redness
Squinting
Eyelids that stick together
Thick discharge or watery eyes
Pawing at the eyes
Conjunctivitis should be diagnosed by your veterinarian, since the same symptoms could also point to more serious eye problems.
Blocked Tear Ducts
If you notice tears running from your dog’s eyes, they may be suffering from a blocked tear duct. Staining below the eye often results from constant moisture in the area. This staining might be the primary symptom, but sometimes bacteria can grow in the moist discharge. When this happens, odor and infection can quickly follow. If your dog has signs of a blocked duct, your vet will likely perform some diagnostic tests. They can then prescribe medication or even perform surgery to help your pet recover.
Corneal Ulcers
If you’ve ever had a corneal ulcer, you know the pain can be debilitating. Corneal ulcers are open wounds on the surface of the cornea, and they feel as bad as they sound. In humans, a fingernail scratch, contact lens, or infection is often to blame. When dogs get corneal ulcers, infection could be to blame, but the most likely culprit is direct trauma to the eye. Contact with another animal’s claw, a rough surface, or dust particles can all create an abrasion on your dog’s eye.
If your dog has a corneal ulcer, they’ll likely keep their eyes closed as much as possible. They may constantly paw at it due to the pain, and you might see a steady stream of tears. Getting your dog to the vet’s office as soon as possible is the best way to prevent complications.
Other Causes of Eye Discharge
A dog with abnormal eye discharge could also be suffering from many other conditions, including:
Glaucoma
Insufficient tear production
Tumors
Deformities of the eyelid or lashes
Bacterial or viral infections
Trying to diagnose your dog’s eye problems at home can lead to trouble. Your pet’s eyesight is at stake, so professional diagnosis and treatment is crucial.
Dan’s Pet Care: A Team That Knows Their Stuff
At Dan’s Pet Care, our team of professional pet care specialists are up to date on all the ins and outs of dog care. We’re equipped to meet all of your pet care needs, from walking to daycare to pooper scooper services, grooming, and more. Call us today at (516) 551-1613 or fill out our online contact form!
