Dogs, like humans, can occasionally show a small degree of dried stuck discharge at the corner of their eyes, especially first thing in the morning or when they wake up after a long sleep. This is very common and not an issue of concern. However, persistent and severe watering, or the appearance of “weepy” or “runny” eye(s), with clear discharge streaming down the eyelids of your dog’s face is not normal and suggests an underlying problem.
8 common causes of weepy eyes in dogs:
The most common causes that can cause watering of your dog’s eyes are:
- Abnormalities of the eyelid skin, such as entropion or ectropion. This is a medical condition that requires assessment by a vet and possibly surgical correction.
- Aberrant eyelashes, which are in contact with the surface of the eye, causing persistent irritation. These eyelashes are called distichia or ectopic cilia.
- Irritation from detergents, diffusers, scented candles, perfumes or sprays can affect your dog’s eyes and make your dog’s eye watery.
- Environmental allergies and irritants around the household, garden or the fields that your dog is walking can lead to irritation.
- Injuries, such as corneal ulcers, will cause pain, irritation and weeping of the eyes.
- Painful conditions such as glaucoma or uveitis can also lead to overproduction of tears, due to pain.
- Abnormalities of the tear ducts, such as blockage of the tear duct, can lead to excessive overflow of tears and weeping of the eyes
- Foreign bodies, such as grass seeds, can find their way in the eye and lead to persistent irritation and severe weeping or watering of the eye.
How to diagnose watery eyes at home?
Thankfully, this is rather simple. Your pet’s eyes should be clean and dry. If you notice significant discharge around the eyelids, usually and most commonly at the middle or outer corner of the eye this would suggest a problem.
Changes in the colour of the hair (i.e., turning black or red from white) can also suggest overflow of tears and constant watering.
Treatment options for weepy eyes:
If the weeping of your dog’s eyes is mild and not causing discomfort, general hygiene and regular cleaning is the best remedy at home.
However, if the weeping is worse in just one of the eyes while the other eye is normal, if the weeping is excessing and is accompanied with closure of the eyelids, keeping the eyes shut or showing signs of pain and discomfort, you should seek veterinary advice as there are many pathological conditions that lead to weeping of the eyes.
How to prevent watery eyes in dogs:
For cases where weeping and watering is associated with allergies or cleaning/detergent products, removing any products that can stimulate the problem is the first step.
Using hypoallergenic products can also help to reduce any reaction and discomfort caused to your dog. In cases where the weeping is associated with an underlying condition, medical or surgical treatment of the condition will prevent further problems.
Concerned about your dog’s eyes?
If your pet experiences watery eyes, 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. Are watery eyes in dogs always a sign of a problem?
In most cases, yes. However, certain breeds like the Shih Tzu, Maltese, Lhasa Apso, Pug and Bulldog can have watery eyes without an active, concerning underlying problem.
2. What are the most common reasons my dog’s eyes are watering?
If your dog is not experiencing discomfort, this could be associated with poor drainage of the tears via the tear duct. Conditions that need to be addressed include entropion and aberrant eyelashes or painful ulcers.
3. When should I take my dog to the vet for watery eyes?
Deteriorating wetness, watering or signs of pain (keeping the eyes shut) should alarm you.
4. What can I do at home to help prevent my dog’s eyes from watering?
Gently cleaning the skin around the eyelids with a dried cotton pad is the best practice.