Dogs can develop all different types of eye problems, just like we can. Their eyes are just as sensitive as ours. It’s possible one day your dog could surprise you with one or both eyes closed or half-closed. What can cause dogs to keep their eye(s) closed?
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There are a wide range of issues that can cause your dog to look as if he’s squinting at you. These problems include:
- Eye injury or trauma
- A foreign object in the eye
- Eye ulcer
- Dry eye
- Eye infection (due to bacterial, viral, or fungal infection)
- Conjunctivitis
- Glaucoma
- Eyelash disorders
- Eyelid disorders
- Allergies
- And more
Some of these conditions are more serious than others. For instance, glaucoma can lead to blindness if left untreated. All conditions listed above have the potential to become more serious if left untreated. So, if your dog shows symptoms (listed below), then he really needs to be checked out by the vet.
Symptoms of Closed Eyes in Dogs
You may notice these symptoms if your dog has one or both eyes closed:
- Swelling of the eyes
- Painful eyes
- Discharge of the eyes or nose
- Redness
- Cloudiness
- Loss of Vision
- Shaking of the head
- Pawing at face
- Itchy eyes
If your dog has one or both eyes closed, then it’s time to call the vet. The problem could be caused by an underlying health issue that needs to be treated as soon as possible.
Treatment of Closed Eye(s) in Dogs
At the vet’s, they will perform a physical of your dog, which may include labor work to check for any underlying health issues. They may also choose to use an ocular instrument to check your dog’s eyes for infections and other eye problems.
If your dog has an eye infection, the vet may prescribe antibiotic eye drops, as well as oral antibiotics. If there’s a foreign object in the eye, then the vet will remove it. In this case, the vet may also prescribe antibiotics if there are signs of infection in the eye.
If your dog’s eye problem is caused by allergies, then the vet will prescribe antihistamines.
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Ask a Vet Live NowPrevention of Eye Problems in Dogs
While accidents will happen, there are some steps you can take to help prevent some eye problems in your canine companion.
When your dog plays with his feline sibling or somehow injures his eyes, then that’s the time to get it checked by the vet. Especially if your dog’s eyes are closed.
If your dog’s eye issues are caused by allergies, then it is necessary to keep him on an antihistamine. But this must be discussed with your vet. Some human medications can make dogs quite sick.
Lastly, if your dog has closed eyes, then it’s time for a visit to the vet. Diagnosing the problem on your own is not recommended.
The good news is that when dogs receive prompt medical attention for closed eyes, they will make a full recovery.
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Kyoko
Kyoko is from a family of 3 and moved to New York with her parents and siblings when she was 13. Kyoko is fond of spending a great amount of time with pets, specifically her beagle Luna and cat Missy. Her boyfriend often complains that she spends too much time giving attention to their animals. Kyoko has written dozens of articles concerning pets and is aiming at owning a pet shop one day!
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