How to Treat Bloodshot Eyes in Dogs

Doggy eye congestion can look scary, but it's actually harmless and rarely a cause for concern. Bloodshot eyes in dogs can be caused by various factors, including allergies, foreign objects, infections, or underlying health conditions. Recognizing and treating bloodshot eyes promptly is essential to ensure your canine friend's comfort and prevent any potential complications. 

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Bloodshot Eyes in Dogs

Identifying bloodshot eyes in your dog can be relatively easy, as their eyes will appear redder than usual. It is not enough to see your dog’s eyes in their bloodshot red state to know what that means. Instead, you should monitor your puppy to see if they have any other symptoms that could cause redness in their eyes, such as:

• Excessive tearing or discharge
• Squinting or rubbing of the eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Swelling or inflammation around the eyes
• Pawing at the eyes
• Heavy breathing
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Eye goopy
• Lethargic
• Rolling back
• High fever accompanied by chills

Related: The Dog Eye Discharge: How to Clean Dog Eye Boogers

If you notice bloodshot eyes or any of the mentioned symptoms, it's best to seek veterinary attention promptly. While mild cases might resolve on their own, more severe or persistent conditions will require professional evaluation and treatment.

Treatment

Once the cause is identified, the veterinarian will recommend appropriate treatment. This might include eye drops or ointments, antibiotics for infections, or specific medications based on the diagnosis.

If your dog is diagnosed with cherry eye, the vet may attempt to manually reset the affected gland using medication. However, if the gland reappears after treatment, surgery is often recommended as a more permanent solution. In the case of eyelid entropion, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the eyelid's position and prevent it from rubbing against the cornea, which could lead to further issues.

Sometimes, red eyes in dogs can be caused by an untreatable problem that may necessitate eye removal surgery. Fortunately, this type of surgery typically doesn't result in any significant adverse side effects for pets, except for some loss of depth perception. Nonetheless, it's essential to consult with your veterinarian to determine the most appropriate course of action based on your dog's specific condition.

Why Are My Dogs Eyes Bloodshot?

1. Allergies

Dogs, like humans, can suffer from allergies that cause their eyes to become irritated and bloodshot. Common allergens include pollen, mold, dust mites, and certain foods.

2. Foreign Objects

Particles like dust, grass, or debris can enter your dog's eyes, leading to irritation and redness.

3. Eye Infections

Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can cause inflammation in the eyes, resulting in a bloodshot appearance.

4. Conjunctivitis

Also known as "pink eye," conjunctivitis is a common eye condition in dogs, characterized by redness and discharge.

5. Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca)

A lack of tear production can cause dry, red eyes, making your dog prone to infections.

6. Glaucoma

Increased pressure within the eye can lead to bloodshot eyes and severe discomfort for your pet.

7. Trauma

Any physical injury to the eye can cause redness and swelling.

8. Exhaustion

Exhaustion can be a leading factor behind your dog's bloodshot eyes. When your dog struggles to fall asleep at night or experiences disrupted sleep, it can lead to dry and irritated eyes, resulting in a reddened appearance. If you observe your dog having trouble sleeping, it's crucial to investigate the underlying cause. Consulting your local veterinarian is essential to initiate the diagnostic and treatment process once you notice this change in behavior.

9. Dog Breeds

Flat faces can pose eye-related problems in dogs, particularly in brachycephalic breeds like pugs and bulldogs. These breeds are prone to bloodshot eyes and various health issues, particularly concerning their eyes. Due to their flat facial structure, pugs, for instance, have large eyes that may uncomfortably protrude, leaving them vulnerable to debris and flying bugs without adequate protection.

Related: French Bulldog Tear Stains: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

10. Collar too tight

The bloodshot eyes could indicate increased pressure or strain in the eye area due to the choking incident. 

11. Grooming

Some grooming products, such as shampoos, conditioners, or eye cleaning solutions, may cause irritation or allergic reactions in some dogs, leading to red or bloodshot eyes. Or during grooming, accidental contact with sharp grooming tools or rough handling can lead to eye trauma, resulting in redness and bloodshot eyes.

How to Treat Your Dog’s Irrritated Eyes at Home？

If your dog experiences minor ailments like red eyes caused by seasonal allergies to dust or pollen, or simply red eyes due to exertion and fatigue, without any worrisome symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting, you can follow these home care tips to provide effective relief:

Keep the area clean

Gently wipe away any discharge or debris around your dog's eyes using a soft, clean cloth or a cotton ball dampened with warm water. Use a separate cloth for each eye to avoid cross-contamination.

Flush the eyes

You can use a saline solution specifically made for eyes or an over-the-counter sterile eyewash to flush your dog's eyes gently. This can help remove any irritants and soothe the eyes. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product. 

The Puainta® Dog Tear Stain Remover will help flush the eye of irritants and stave off bacteria and infections with ingredients like boric acid.

Related: Boric Acid Eye Wash for Dogs

Apply a warm compress

A warm, damp cloth can be applied gently to your dog's closed eyes for a few minutes. The warmth can help reduce inflammation and discomfort.

Provide a calm environment

Reduce bright lights and loud noises, creating a soothing environment for your dog to minimize eye strain.

Tips to Keep Your Doggie’s Eyes Healthy

Proper eye care is essential for maintaining your dog's overall health and ensuring their vision remains in top condition. Here are some healthy eye care tips for dogs:

Avoid Irritants: Keep your dog away from smoke, chemicals, and other potential eye irritants. Environmental pollutants can cause redness and discomfort in their eyes.

Prevent Injury: Protect your dog's eyes from potential injury by keeping them away from sharp objects or dangerous situations. Consider using protective eyewear for dogs during outdoor activities if necessary.

Balanced Diet: Feed your dog a balanced and nutritious diet to support overall health, including eye health. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil supplements, can be beneficial for eye health.

Keep the Eyes Clean: Gently wipe around your dog's eyes with a damp, soft cloth or a pet-specific eye wipe to remove any discharge or debris. Be careful not to touch the eyeball itself.

Conclusion

Your dog's eyes are a window to their health and well-being. Bloodshot eyes can be a sign of various underlying issues, and early intervention is crucial to prevent complications and ensure your furry friend's comfort. Always seek professional veterinary care to accurately diagnose the cause and receive the appropriate treatment. With the right care and attention, your beloved pet will be back to enjoying the world with bright, healthy eyes in no time.