Name: Veterinary Services
Brand: Columbia Pike Animal Hospital and Emergency Center

Your dog’s eyes are delicate, sensitive, and essential to their quality of life. Even small issues can quickly become serious if left untreated. In this week’s Vet Video Series, Dr. Delia Large-Hart walks through the most common eye problems in dogs, what to watch for at home, and when it’s time to act fast.

Recognizing the Signs of Eye Problems

Catching eye issues early is one of the most important things you can do as a pet owner.

Watch for:

Discharge from the eyes
- Clear discharge may be normal (called epiphora)
- Green or yellow discharge is more likely infection
Excessive blinking or squinting
Redness or swelling
Pawing or scratching at the eye

These signs can indicate irritation, infection, or injury, and should always be taken seriously.

Common Eye Conditions in Dogs

Some of the most common issues we see include:

Eye infections, often caused by bacteria such as staph, strep, or pseudomonas
Corneal abrasions or ulcers, which can result from scratches or debris
Foreign material in the eye, like dirt, dust, or grass seeds

More severe cases, such as proptosis (eye displacement), can occur and require immediate emergency care.

Every Eye Issue Is an Emergency

One of the biggest takeaways from Dr. Large-Hart:

There is no such thing as a “minor” eye issue.

Because the eye is so sensitive, problems can worsen quickly. Early intervention helps prevent long-term damage, pain, and even vision loss.

If something looks off, it’s always better to be safe and have your pet evaluated.

Breed-Specific Eye Risks

Certain breeds are more prone to specific eye conditions:

Short-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds
More likely to develop dry eye and ulcers
Some working and shepherd breeds
At risk for conditions like pannus
Jack Russell Terriers
More prone to lens luxation due to genetics

While breed tendencies are helpful, every pet is evaluated individually to ensure the correct diagnosis.

How Veterinarians Evaluate Vision

In-clinic testing helps determine how well your dog can see:

Menace response to assess visual awareness
Pupillary light reflex (PLR) to evaluate nerve and eye function
Dazzle reflex to check response to light

These tests help determine whether your pet is visual and how their eyes are functioning overall.

Treatment: Why Acting Early Matters

Eye conditions are treated based on the specific issue, but one thing remains consistent:

Early and proactive treatment leads to better outcomes.

Treatment may include:

Antibiotic eye medications
Anti-inflammatory therapies
Advanced healing support, depending on severity

In more serious cases, surgical intervention or referral to a specialist may be needed.

When to See a Specialist

Veterinary ophthalmologists are best suited for:

Cataract surgery
Advanced or non-healing eye conditions
Complex surgical procedures

However, starting with your primary veterinarian is critical. We can assess, stabilize, and guide you on next steps, including referral if needed.

Eye Care at Home

Simple steps at home can help protect your dog’s eyes:

Rinse eyes after outdoor activity, especially in fields or wooded areas
Use a gentle eye wash solution when needed
Avoid rubbing or applying pressure to the eye

Keeping debris out and acting quickly can prevent more serious issues.

A Critical Reminder About Medications

Not all pet medications are interchangeable.

Some medications that are safe for dogs can be dangerous for cats, and using the wrong product can lead to serious reactions, including anaphylaxis.

Always check with your veterinarian before using any medication.

Dog Eye Care: What Every Pet Owner Should Know

With Dr. Delia Large-Hart