Discharge From a Dog's Eye

Dogs' eyes tear, much like humans do, however the tearing has little to do with the dog's emotions. Dogs' eyes tear for a number of reasons including bacterial infection, allergies, injury, certain eye conditions and viral infections.

Bacterial Infection

Bacterial infections of the eye often result in a yellow or green thick discharge that often becomes matted. Antibacterial drops are used to treat bacterial eye infections.

Allergic Reaction

Allergic reactions to airborne or systemic allergies generally result in a clear or whitish discharge from the eye. Allergic reactions are generally treated with a topical steroid drop or ointment to reduce inflammation.

Eye Injuries

Injury to the eye will cause a clear to white discharge unless it becomes infected. Then the discharge will turn yellow or green.

Eye Conditions

Certain chronic conditions of the eye include keratitis (inflammation of the cornea), blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelid), and certain eyelid deformities that allow the eyelid to turn in on itself and irritate the eye. These conditions are generally caused by an underlying condition which must be diagnosed and treated before treating the symptom.

Considerations

Dogs with thick and green or yellow discharge from the eye should be seen be a veterinarian immediately, especially if you believe an injury is present. Any delays may impair the dog's vision permanently due to scarring or the development of a more systemic infection that invades the optic nerve.

References

• Pet Place: Ocular Discharge in Dogs