Canine Eyelids: Facts, Issues, and Common Problems
Dogs, like their human counterparts, can experience various eyelid problems that may cause discomfort and potential eye damage. Among the most common issues are blepharitis, ectropion, entropion, and cherry eye.
Blepharitis
Blepharitis refers to inflammation of the eyelids, often caused by infections, irritants, mites, fungi, or underlying conditions like allergies and autoimmune diseases. Symptoms include redness, inflammation, encrusted eyelids with mucus-like pus, and eyelid discharge.
Ectropion
Ectropion is a condition where a dog's eyelid rolls outward from the eye surface, exposing the inner eyelid to irritants. This can lead to chronic conjunctivitis, eye redness, and corneal injury. It is common in breeds with loose facial skin such as Bloodhounds and Great Danes.
Entropion
Entropion is a more complex issue, where part or parts of a dog's eyelids roll inwards, causing eyelashes to rub against the eyeball. Symptoms include eye pain, frequent squinting, pawing at eyes, redness, inflammation, excessive tearing, mucus or pus discharge, and potentially corneal ulcers. It is common in short-nosed and toy breeds and may require surgical correction.
Cherry Eye
Cherry eye results from prolapse of the third eyelid gland, creating a visible red or pink bulge ("cherry-like") at the inner corner of the eye. It commonly affects young dogs and certain breeds like Bulldogs and Cocker Spaniels.
Other general signs of eyelid or eye problems include redness, swelling, excessive blinking, discharge (clear, mucoid, yellow, or green), squinting, pawing at the eye, and eye discomfort or pain. Early veterinary diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent complications like corneal damage or vision loss.
In addition to these conditions, dogs may develop growths or tumors on the edges of their eyelids, and any such growths should be surgically removed if they are causing pain or other issues. It is also essential to remember that never using soap or other chemicals near a dog's eyes can damage the eyes.
Dogs have three eyelids, unlike humans who have two. The third eyelid, also known as the nictitating membrane, is usually hidden and only a small portion is visible. This eyelid is responsible for producing tears that contain important proteins called immunoglobulins.
If you notice any abnormalities with your dog's eyelids, such as swelling, redness, hair loss, discharge, growths, or color changes, it is important to have your dog evaluated by a veterinarian. Some breeds, such as Cocker Spaniel and Basset Hound, have ectropion as part of their breed standard conformation.
In summary, common eyelid problems in dogs manifest primarily through visible changes in eyelid position or appearance (rolling in or out, visible gland prolapse, inflammation) and symptoms of eye irritation such as redness, discharge, blinking, swelling, and pain. Early veterinary diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and ensure your dog's eye health.
Health-and-wellness is crucial for a dog's overall well-being, including its eye health. Science can help us understand various eyelid problems that dogs may experience, such as blepharitis, ectropion, entropion, and cherry eye, which can cause discomfort and potential eye damage.
