Common Eye Problems in Dogs

Reviewed by Dr. Fiona Lee

Your dog's eyes do more than see—they also reveal hidden signs of their health. Eye problems can develop quickly, and if left untreated, they can cause serious damage—even blindness. If you notice anything off, don't wait. Some issues are minor and easy to treat, while others can threaten your dog's comfort, vision and quality of life. Acting early makes all the difference. Here's what to watch for, and when to call your veterinarian.

1. Corneal Damage

The cornea—the clear outer layer of your dog's eye—is vulnerable to injury during play or fights, or when a foreign object gets lodged in the eye.¹ Scratches and other damage are common and can leave your dog visibly uncomfortable, squinting or keeping the eye mostly closed. If you notice these signs, get to a veterinarian ASAP.

A more serious issue, like a corneal ulcer, can develop from injury, infection or inflammation. Symptoms include cloudiness over the eye, redness, tearing and sometimes yellow or green discharge.² This condition is painful and often causes dogs to rub at their eyes or keep them shut—especially in brachycephalic breeds like Pugs and Bulldogs, who are more prone to ulcers. Corneal ulcers are an emergency, so don't wait—seek veterinary care immediately.

Treatment for corneal ulcers typically starts with antibiotic eye drops and an Elizabethan collar (e-collar) to stop your dog from rubbing and making the injury worse. If the ulcer doesn't heal with basic treatment, additional steps like corneal debridement (removing dead tissue), placing a protective contact lens or performing a grid keratotomy (a minor surgical procedure to stimulate healing) may be needed. In more severe cases, surgery may be required.¹

2. Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca)

Dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) happens when a dog's immune system damages the glands that produce tears. Without enough moisture, the eyes can become dry, red, inflamed and prone to infections and ulcers on the cornea.³ A telltale sign is often a dry, crusty nose.

Dogs with underlying conditions like diabetes or thyroid disease are at higher risk. Fortunately, dry eye is usually manageable with prescription eye drops given over the dog's lifetime.⁴

3. Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)

Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is the inflammation of the conjunctiva—the thin, clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye and lines the inner eyelids. In dogs, conjunctivitis is often caused by bacterial infections, allergens, dryness or foreign debris. Treatment usually involves medicated eye drops or ointments, and sometimes oral medications.⁵

4. Eyelid Masses (Lumps, Growths, Tumors)

Most eyelid masses—like bumps, lumps and growths—are harmless. Common examples include warts, benign tumors and growths on the oil-producing meibomian glands. Unless your dog is bothered by the mass, removal likely isn't necessary, but check with your veterinarian. Some tumors can be malignant, and even benign ones might irritate the eye and need to be removed.⁶

Redness, excessive tears or other discharge, frequent rubbing and blinking, and a cloudy appearance to the eye are common symptoms. If the mass causes pain, rapid changes in size or other severe symptoms, see your veterinarian immediately.⁶

5. Cataracts

Cataracts cause the eye's lens to become cloudy, which can affect one or both eyes and impair vision. The condition can develop from genetics, aging, diabetes, injuries or infections, and can partially or completely obstruct your dog's vision. In dogs with diabetes, cataracts may lead to lens rupture, severe eye inflammation (uveitis) and even blindness.¹

If you notice cloudiness in your dog's eyes, check with your veterinarian about whether your pup is a candidate for surgical removal. Cataract surgery is currently the only effective treatment for cataracts and can restore vision in many cases.⁴

6. Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a serious, progressive condition that can lead to blindness in dogs if left untreated. It occurs when fluid can't drain properly from the eye, causing dangerous pressure that damages the retina and optic nerve. Glaucoma can be inherited or triggered by other eye problems, such as cataracts.⁴

Symptoms often appear suddenly and include eye pain (shown by rubbing or pawing at the face), watery discharge, lethargy, loss of appetite, redness and swelling of the eyeball. Acute glaucoma is a true emergency—early diagnosis is critical, so consult your veterinarian if you see these signs. In some cases, analgesic eye drops can provide temporary relief, while surgery is an option for advanced cases.⁷

7. Cherry Eye

Cherry eye refers to the prolapse of the third eyelid gland, which can pop out of place and create a red, swollen mass in the corner of the eye—resembling a small cherry. This membrane is a protective layer for the eye and contains a tear-producing gland that is essential for eye health.⁸

Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs and Boston Terriers are more prone to cherry eye, along with larger breeds like Bloodhounds. Treatment typically involves surgical repositioning of the gland. Without surgery, the affected eye can lose up to half of its tear production, leading to chronic dry eye. Surgery is usually effective, but cherry eye can return in up to 20% of dogs—and may eventually affect both eyes.⁸

8. Entropion and Ectropion

Entropion and ectropion are eyelid conditions that are usually mild, but still warrant a veterinarian's attention.

• With ectropion, the bottom eyelid droops or rolls outward from the eye, making it look droopy and exposed. It's common in breeds like Bullmastiffs, Basset Hounds, Bloodhounds, Bulldogs, Retrievers and Spaniels. It's usually more of a cosmetic issue, but in some cases, it can lead to dryness or inflammation.¹
• Entropion causes the eyelid to roll inward, affecting either the top or bottom eyelid. It's most common in breeds like Chow Chows, English Bulldogs, Irish Setters, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Saint Bernards, Rottweilers and Great Danes. The inward-turned eyelid causes the eyelashes or hair to rub against the surface of the eye, leading to pain, redness, infection and even corneal ulcers if left untreated. Surgical correction can prevent long-term damage and protect your dog's vision.¹

9. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a genetic condition that causes the retina to thin over time, leading to blindness within one to two years. There is no effective treatment for PRA.⁹

While any dog can develop PRA, certain breeds are more prone to it, including the American Staffordshire Terrier, Belgian Malinois, Collie, Irish Setter, Mastiff and others. Early signs for dogs include difficulty seeing in dimly lit areas, as night vision is typically the first to decline before all vision is eventually lost. The good news is that most dogs adapt surprisingly well to losing their sight and can still live happy, fulfilling lives with a little extra help and care.⁹

Tips and Tricks To Avoid Eye Problems With Dogs

Canine eye health starts with good hygiene and cleanliness. Regular baths, trimmed nails and clean hair around your dog's eyes can go a long way in preventing irritation and injury. Of course, the most important way to keep your dog's eyes healthy is regular veterinarian visits that include eye exams. Early detection is key to protecting your dog's vision!

Pets Best Is Here To Help

Your dog's eyes—and that beautiful face you love—deserve a little extra attention. Healthy eyes (and noses!) are critical to your dog's quality of life, so watch closely for signs of dryness, discharge or sudden changes. If any symptoms appear severe or show up out of nowhere, don't wait—take your pup to the vet as soon as possible.

Treating serious dog eye problems like cataracts or glaucoma can get expensive, but pet insurance may help. At Pets Best, our customizable dog insurance plans are designed to fit your pet's needs and help you manage the cost of care. Plus, Pets Best policyholders get 24/7 access to a veterinary expert through our Pet Helpline—because questions (and emergencies) don't keep business hours.

Sources/ Citations

1. “Dog Eye Problems," Emily A. Fassbaugh (10/2021), PetMD, https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/evr_dg_eye_problems_in_dogs
2. “5 Most Common Types of Dog Eye Injuries: How to Spot, Diagnose and Treat," Sandra C. Mitchell (2/2024), PetMD, https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/most-common-types-dog-eye-injuries
3. “Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS) or Dry Eye in Dogs," Courtney Barnes et al (2023), VCA Animal Hospitals, https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/keratoconjunctivitis-sicca-kcs-or-dry-eye-in-dogs
4. “8 Common Eye Conditions in Dogs," (10/2023), Veterinary Vision Center, https://veterinaryvisioncenter.com/8-common-eye-conditions-in-dogs/
5. “Conjunctivitis in Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide for Pet Owners," (12/2024), MedVet, https://www.medvet.com/conjunctivitis-in-dogs/
6. “How To Know What the Growth Is On My Dog's Eyelid," (1/2025), Vetster, https://vetster.com/en/wellness/how-to-know-what-the-growth-is-on-my-dog-s-eyelid
7. “Glaucoma in Dogs," Krista Williams et al. (2023), VCA Animal Hospitals, https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/glaucoma-in-dogs
8. “Cherry Eye in Dogs," Ryan Llera and Ernest Ward (2022), VCA Animal Hospitals, https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/cherry-eye-in-dogs
9. “Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) in Dogs," Jamie Case (1/2023), PetMD, https://www.petmd.com/dog/condition/progressive-retinal-atrophy-in-dogs