The eye is always exposed to the surrounding environment and is prone to being in contact with dust, irritating environmental factors and, less commonly, foreign bodies. Unlike humans, dogs are keen to explore vegetation, plants, fields, ponds and rivers among other areas.
These areas are rich in materials that can accumulate in the eyes and lead to collection of discharge, or even foreign objects that can cause harm to the eye.
Signs your dogs eyes need cleaning
If your dog’s eyes have dried discharge or mucus around the corner, or on the surface of the eye, it means it is time to consider some localised cleaning to maintain your dog’s eye hygiene.
Remember, a morning wash of our face can be refreshing but dogs can’t do the same on their own! Cleaning your dog’s eyes is an important part of keeping them healthy and it allows you a good opportunity to check their eye health and if you notice any changes, always contact your vet for advice!
How to clean your dog’s eyes (step by step guide)
- Prepare a cleaning solution: As a general principle, cooled boiled water is the safest cleaning solution to use but if you would like to avoid waiting for the water to cool, you can use a sterile eye wash solution – this isn’t a fancy eye wash for dogs, instead it is simply what you can find your own first-aid kit. If you opt to use a ready-made solution do ensure that it is sterile and safe to be used in the eye, otherwise you can risk causing more problems with your dog’s eyes.
- Use a soaked cotton pad: Once you have saturated the cotton pad with the cleaning solution, approach your pet slowly and gently clean any crust or discharge from around your dog’s eyelids and eyes. You might find it easier to use one hand to gently tilt your dog’s head upwards or ask an assistant to help hold your pet still if necessary.
- If your pet has undergone surgery, please refer to the post-operative instructions provided by your vets on how to clean around the surgical wounds.
- Avoid rubbing and touching the eye itself when you are trying to clean your dog’s eyes.
- Ensure you use a new cotton pad for each wipe and for each eye.
- Reward your dog after with a tasty treat, or a scratch in their favourite spot.
How to clean your dog’s tear stains
Tear stains can be a nuisance, especially on a perfectly white coat! Local hygiene, such as regular brushing of the hair with a fine comb to remove any stuck discharge and cleaning of the eyelid and hair as mentioned above will help to reduce the staining.
In addition, some commercial products can help to reduce the amount of staining, for further information you can consult one of our ophthalmologists.
Although tear staining is very common in certain dog breeds, you will need to ensure that your dog is not suffering from a condition that could exacerbate the problem (i.e., blocked tear ducts, inward rolling of the hair leading to irritation of the eye, or aberrant eyelashes).
How to clean your dog eyes crust
Crusting around the corner of the eyes can be annoying, especially after a long night’s sleep. The best way to remove this is to use a soaked cotton pad, following the same principles and instructions as above.
Should you use natural products to clean your dog’s eyes?
Products such as tea or chamomile tea are remedies used in the past. In general principle these should be avoided as, although rarely, this method could worsen any underlying conditions or problems (such as a corneal ulcer). Sterile water is the safest option when cleaning your dog’s eyes.
Concerned about your dog’s eyes?
If your pet experiences one or more of the symptoms above, we are here for you. Request an appointment and get in touch with one of our specialised ophthalmologists.
Also, feel free to explore our prices. Your pet’s health is in good hands!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How often should I clean my dog’s eyes?
For most breeds of dogs, once a day is more than enough. Dogs will have a degree of dried “sleep” in the corner of their eyes in the morning and this can be wiped away/cleaned. For long-haired dogs, brushing of the hairs and removing any stuck discharge within the hairs once or twice daily might be required.
2. Are over-the-counter saline solutions safe?
Sealed, single use, sterile saline solutions which are not past their expiry date are safe to use
3. What if my dog resists cleaning?
Positive encouragement, treats and turning the experience to a more playful game can help your dog gradually tolerate cleaning of the eyes