Why Are My Dogs Eyes Red

One such observation that might raise alarms is when you see your dog's eyes turning red. While red eyes in dogs can be a sign of various underlying issues, it's essential not to jump to conclusions. Understanding the potential causes and seeking timely veterinary care can help ensure your beloved pet's well-being.

Before we get into the causes of red eyes in dogs, it's important to understand the difference between dog eyes and human eyes.

Dogs' eyes differ from human eyes in several ways, reflecting the differences in their visual capabilities, adaptations to their environments, and evolutionary history.

Field of View and Visual Acuity

Dogs have a wider field of view compared to humans. They have greater peripheral vision, which helps them detect movement and activity around them more effectively.
However, dogs generally have lower visual acuity compared to humans. This means they can't see fine details as well as we can. 

Color Perception

Dogs have fewer color receptors (cones) in their retinas compared to humans, leading to a limited color spectrum. Dogs are primarily sensitive to blue and yellow hues. They don't perceive reds and greens as well.

Night Vision

Dogs have a higher number of rod cells in their retinas, which are specialized for low-light and night vision. This gives dogs better vision in dim light conditions compared to humans.
A reflective layer called the tapetum lucidum, present in dogs' eyes, enhances their night vision by reflecting light back through the retina. This is what causes their eyes to appear to "glow" in the dark.

Tear Production

Dogs have a third eyelid, called the nictitating membrane or "haw," which helps protect their eyes and spread tears across the surface. This adaptation helps keep their eyes moist and contributes to their unique appearance.

Should I Worry If My Dogs Eyes Are Red?

If you notice that your dog's eyes are red, it's important to consider a few factors before determining whether you should be worried. Red eyes in dogs can be caused by various reasons, ranging from minor issues to more serious health concerns. 
If your dog's eyes are red, monitor their behavior and overall well-being. If the redness is mild and doesn't seem to cause discomfort, you can try gently rinsing the eyes with a sterile saline solution and observing for improvement. However, if the redness persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms like discharge, squinting, excessive tearing, changes in behavior, or changes in appetite, it's advisable to consult a veterinarian.

Common Causes of Red Eyes in Dogs

1. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

This is a common culprit behind red eyes in dogs. Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the front of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. It can be caused by allergens, irritants, bacteria, viruses, or even foreign objects like dust and pollen.

Symptoms of Conjunctivitis

• Redness of the eye or inner eyelid
• Watery or mucous discharge
• Swelling or puffiness around the eye
• Squinting or frequent blinking
• Sensitivity to light
• Itching or rubbing of the eyes with paws or against objects
• Cloudiness or opacity of the cornea (the clear front part of the eye)

Treatment of Conjunctivitis

The treatment for conjunctivitis in dogs depends on the underlying cause. If you suspect your dog has conjunctivitis, it's best to consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. They may recommend:

• Eye Cleansing: Your vet may recommend gently cleaning your dog's eyes with a Boric acid solution to remove debris and discharge.
• Topical Antibiotics or Antiviral Medications: If the cause is bacterial or viral, your vet might prescribe eye drops or ointments to help clear the infection. (Like neomycin sulfate or hydrocortisone.)
• Antihistamines or Steroids: For allergic conjunctivitis, medications to relieve inflammation and itching might be prescribed.
• Warm Compresses: Applying warm, damp compresses to the affected eye can help soothe discomfort and remove discharge.

For the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis in cats and dogs, neomycin eye drops for dogs and cats can reduce the harmful effects of bacterial conjunctivitis, and early use of the drug can control the development of the disease and reduce eye congestion and photophobia, and other uncomfortable manifestations. Puainta eye drops for dogs and cats is an eye drops for the treatment of multiple eye problems, such as conjunctivitis and corneal infections. It can relieve inflammation, further cure eye diseases, and bring comfort during the treatment process.  Puainta's advanced formula promotes clear vision by reducing redness, irritation, and dryness in your pet's eyes. Say goodbye to watery eyes and hello to improved clarity!

The active ingredient in these eye drops is hydrocortisone acetate, which is a corticosteroid. Corticosteroids have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce swelling and itching in the affected area. It is designed to help alleviate discomfort caused by various eye conditions, including allergies, itching, redness, and swelling. Details Treatment of conjunctivitis, iritis, keratitis and scleritis Eliminate eye infection and inflammation Cool refreshing feeling to relieve pain caused by eye problems The eye drops come in a sterile solution that is easy to apply Shake suspension well prior to use.

2. Allergies

Dogs, like humans, can suffer from allergies. Allergic reactions to environmental factors like pollen, dust, or certain foods can lead to red and irritated eyes. Allergies can also cause itching, which might lead to further eye irritation if the dog repeatedly scratches the area.

Allergies are managed using a range of approaches determined by the root cause. Treatment options encompass oral medications like antihistamines, along with the use of eye drops to address any secondary infections that might arise.

Some common antihistamines that are occasionally used for dogs under veterinary guidance include:

• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
• Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
• Loratadine (Claritin)
• Fexofenadine (Allegra)
• Chlorpheniramine Maleate (Puainta)

Puainta allergy medication for dogs and cats - a fast-absorbing, long-lasting, and effective solution for relieving allergy symptoms. Our allergy medication comes in the form of convenient tablets that are designed to provide quick relief, combat itching, promote rapid and complete absorption, and offer long-lasting results.

3. Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca)

This condition occurs when the eyes don't produce enough tears to keep them adequately lubricated. Dry eyes can cause discomfort, and redness, and even lead to more severe eye problems if left untreated.
Common symptoms include:

• Thick, mucoid or sticky discharge from the eyes
• Redness and inflammation of the conjunctiva (conjunctivitis)
• Squinting or excessive blinking
• Corneal cloudiness or opacities
• Frequent pawing at the eyes
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Corneal ulcers or erosions
• Potential vision changes

Diagnosis of dry eye

A veterinarian will conduct a thorough eye examination to diagnose dry eye. This may include:

• Schirmer Tear Test: Measures tear production by placing a special strip of paper in the eye.
• Fluorescein Staining: Detects corneal ulcers or erosions.
• Ocular Surface Examination: Evaluates the condition of the cornea, conjunctiva, and overall eye health.

Treatment of dry eye

Treatment aims to alleviate discomfort, manage inflammation, and stimulate tear production. Common approaches include:

• Topical Medications: Prescription medications like cyclosporine or tacrolimus can promote tear production by reducing inflammation and immune response.
• Corticosteroids: These may be used short-term to control severe inflammation but are generally not a long-term solution due to potential side effects.
• Surgical Options: In severe cases, surgical procedures to redirect saliva ducts to the eyes or implantation of a gland of the third eyelid (parotid duct transposition) can be considered.

The active ingredient in these eye drops is hydrocortisone acetate, which is a corticosteroid. Corticosteroids have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce swelling and itching in the affected area. It is designed to help alleviate discomfort caused by various eye conditions, including allergies, itching, redness, and swelling. How to use Drip 1-2 drops for once, once or three times a day Ingredients Hydrocortisone Acetate

4. Corneal Ulcers

Corneal ulcers and scratches are common eye injuries that can occur in dogs. The cornea is the clear, protective outer layer of the eye, and any damage to it can lead to discomfort, pain, and potentially serious complications if not treated promptly. 

Symptoms of Corneal Ulcers

• Squinting or blinking excessively
• Redness and inflammation of the eye
• Watery discharge
• Pawing at the eye
• Sensitivity to light
• Cloudiness or opacity on the cornea
• Visible scratch or wound on the cornea

Treatment of Corneal Ulcers

Treatment depends on the severity of the ulcer. Mild ulcers may be treated with lubricating eye drops and ointments to keep the eye moisturized and promote healing. More severe cases may require antibiotic or antifungal eye medications to prevent or treat infection.

5. Corneal Scratches

A corneal scratch, also known as a corneal abrasion, is a superficial injury to the cornea caused by a foreign object, like a thorn or a fingernail, or even minor trauma. While these scratches are typically less severe than ulcers, they can still cause discomfort.

Symptoms of Corneal Scratches

• Watery discharge
• Blinking or squinting
• Redness
• Sensitivity to light
• Mild discomfort or pain

Treatment of Corneal Scratches

Minor scratches may heal on their own within a few days with appropriate care. Treatment often involves using lubricating eye drops or ointments to keep the eye moist and promote healing. In some cases, the veterinarian might prescribe antibiotic ointments to prevent infection.

5. Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can affect dogs, just as it does humans. It's characterized by increased pressure within the eye, which can lead to damage of the optic nerve and potentially result in vision loss if not properly managed. There are two main types of glaucoma in dogs: primary and secondary.

Primary Glaucoma

This is the most common form of glaucoma in dogs and is often inherited. Breeds that are genetically predisposed to primary glaucoma include

• Cocker Spaniels
• Basset Hounds
• Chow Chows
• Siberian Huskies

Secondary Glaucoma

This type of glaucoma develops as a result of another underlying eye condition, such as inflammation, trauma, cataracts, or tumors. These conditions can block the normal drainage of fluid from the eye, leading to increased pressure.

Diagnosis and Treatment

A veterinarian will diagnose glaucoma by measuring the intraocular pressure using a tonometer. If glaucoma is suspected, other diagnostic tests, such as examining the optic nerve and assessing the eye's drainage angles, may be performed.

Treatment aims to reduce intraocular pressure, alleviate discomfort, and preserve vision.

• Surgery: In some cases, surgery might be recommended to improve drainage or reduce fluid production.
• Enucleation: If the eye is severely damaged and causing pain, removal of the affected eye (enucleation) might be considered to prevent further discomfort.

It's important to note that glaucoma is a progressive condition, and vision loss that occurs due to glaucoma is generally irreversible. 

6. Uveitis

Uveitis is another eye condition that can affect dogs. It refers to the inflammation of the uveal tract, which includes the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. The uvea is responsible for providing blood supply to the eye and regulating the amount of light that enters the eye by adjusting the size of the pupil.

Diagnosis and Treatment

A veterinarian will perform a thorough eye examination, including assessing the appearance of the eye, measuring intraocular pressure, and examining the inside of the eye using an ophthalmoscope. Additional tests such as blood tests, cultures, and imaging may be conducted to determine the underlying cause.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause of uveitis. It may involve:

• Anti-inflammatory Medications: These can help reduce the inflammation and relieve pain. Topical eye drops or ointments and systemic medications might be prescribed.
• Treating Underlying Conditions: If an infection or systemic disease is identified as the cause, appropriate treatment will be recommended.
• Pain Management: Dogs with uveitis can experience significant discomfort, so pain management is an important aspect of treatment.
• Corticosteroids: In some cases, corticosteroids may be used to control inflammation.

7. Gland Prolapse

"Gland prolapse," commonly known as "cherry eye," is a condition that affects dogs' eyes, particularly certain breeds like Bulldogs, Cocker Spaniels, and Beagles. Cherry eye refers to the prolapse or displacement of the nictitating membrane or third eyelid gland, which is a tear-producing gland located in the inner corner of the eye.

The most obvious symptom of cherry eye is the appearance of a red or pink mass in the corner of the dog's eye.
In some cases, veterinarians may attempt to manipulate the gland back into its normal position using topical medications and gentle massage. This approach is often more successful in the early stages of the condition.

8. Breed Issues

There are some dog breeds that are more prone to certain eye issues that can cause redness or other symptoms. 

• Bulldogs, Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Boxers have short noses and prominent eyes. Their facial structure can lead to a variety of eye problems, including: Cherry Eye, Entropion.
• German Shepherds are prone to a condition called "pannus" or "chronic superficial keratitis," which is an autoimmune disorder affecting the cornea. It can cause redness, cloudiness, and discomfort in the eyes.
• Cocker Spaniels are prone to a condition known as "chronic progressive retinal atrophy" (CPRA), which can cause redness and inflammation in the eyes due to the degeneration of retinal cells.
• Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes are prone to a genetic condition called "corneal dystrophy," which can lead to redness and cloudiness in the cornea.
• Chow Chows are predisposed to a condition called "entropion," where the eyelids roll inward, causing irritation and redness.

Do Red Eyes Mean a Dog is Tired?

While tiredness or fatigue might contribute to red eyes in dogs to some extent, it's usually not the primary cause. If your dog has red eyes, it's important to monitor their behavior and other symptoms, such as discharge, squinting, excessive blinking, cloudiness, or changes in vision. If the redness persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it's advisable to consult a veterinarian.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

While occasional redness in your dog's eyes might not always be a cause for immediate concern, it's crucial to monitor the situation closely. If you notice any of the following signs, it's best to consult a veterinarian promptly:

• Persistent Redness: If the redness persists for more than a day or two.
• Discharge: If there's any discharge from the eyes, especially if it's thick, colored, or accompanied by swelling.
• Squinting or Rubbing: Excessive squinting, rubbing, or pawing at the eyes indicates discomfort.
• Change in Behavior: If your dog's behavior changes, such as decreased appetite, lethargy, or avoiding bright light.
• Cloudiness: If the eyes appear cloudy or the dog's vision seems impaired.
• Changes in Pupils: If you notice changes in the size or shape of the pupils.

How to Keep Your Dog’s Eyes Healthy?

Keeping your dog's eyes healthy is essential to their overall well-being. Here are some tips to help you maintain your dog's eye health:

Keep the area around your dog's eyes clean

Gently wipe away any dirt, discharge, or tear stains with a clean, damp cloth or tear stain cleaner. Be careful not to let water or cleaning solution get directly into your eyes.

Puainta® Tear Stain Remover, Antimicrobial Eye Wash for Dogs/ Cats Helps dissolve compounds discharged from the eyes and eliminate colored dirt such as tear stains Be of antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory functions to clear eye fever, toxin, swelling and pain in eyes Reduce excess secretions due to the obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct Helps clean discharge from your pet's eye caused by allergies or other eye problems PH=7.4, similar to the dog and cat's own tear pH.

Feed your dog a balanced and nutritious diet

Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, and antioxidants can contribute to good eye health. 

Make sure your dog has access to clean and fresh water at all times

Limit Exposure to Wind and Sun

Excessive wind and UV rays can be harmful to your dog's eyes. If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, consider protective eyewear designed for dogs.

Regular Grooming

Depending on the breed, your dog may have long fur around its eyes. Keep this fur trimmed to prevent it from irritating the eyes or trapping debris.

Regular Exercise

Regular exercise helps maintain overall health, which in turn supports eye health.

Conclusion

Red eyes in dogs can have a range of causes, from minor irritations to more severe conditions that require immediate attention. As a responsible pet owner, it's essential to observe your dog's behavior and appearance closely, and not to ignore any signs of discomfort or redness. Seeking timely veterinary care is crucial to ensure your furry friend's eye health and overall well-being. Remember, early intervention can often prevent more significant issues from developing and help keep your dog's eyes clear, bright, and healthy.