How to Diagnose Eye Problems in a Dog

Dogs, just like their human masters, can develop eye problems that range from something minimal to something that can be quite serious. There are certain eye conditions that are more common than others and many of them are specific to one or more particular types of dog breeds. Certain eye conditions are short-term in nature, while others may last throughout the dog’s life. Some can be treated successfully with medications, while others may require surgery. Some are minor, while others can ultimately result in blindness. Therefore, it is important to understand as many of the possibilities that exist as possible.

Things You'll Need

• The breed or breeds of the dog in question
• A list of potential eye problems
• Access to material or on-line resources about the dog breed
• A veterinarian

Instructions

1. Recognize when your dog's eyesight seems to be affected. It is important to catch many eye conditions as quickly as possible in order for treatment to be successful. That means that dog owners must be cognizant of their pet's health in general and their eyes in particular.

2. Research potential eye conditions related to the breed of dog in question. For example, dry eye is common to dog breeds like the Shih ’Tzu, the Lhasa Apso and the pug. Left untreated, the condition can result in blindness. Reading books on the breed or checking research on-line can help educate pet owners about possible conditions and procedures.

3. Obtain a valid diagnosis of the eye condition. In many instances, only a vet can accurately diagnose a dog's eye condition. This may be accomplished by running one or more tests. Referring back to the common problem of "dry eye," the vet would do a tear duct test to determine how many, if any, natural tears the dog makes on his own. This is done with a strip of paper inserted under the eye lid to accurately measure the eye's natural moisture. Based on the test’s results, the vet knows how to proceed with treatment.

4. Obtain immediate treatment if any kind of eye problem is identified. Eye problems include, but are not limited to severely red eyes, sores in or around the eyes, a cloud or mist over the cornea, eye mucus, and/or eyes that are swollen shut. Developing a “wait and see” attitude could put the dog’s heath in danger and could cause loss of his or her eyesight.

5. Determine what can be done to help prevent the eye condition or to prevent it from becoming worse. This might include nothing more than regular check ups and using prescribed medication. However, it might also include daily routines like inserting artificial tears, washing the dog’s eyes out regularly, and removing hair from around the eyes on a regular basis. Make any concessions necessary to maintain the dog’s eye sight.

6. Avoid any and all triggers that might make the condition worse, such as certain types of allergens, exposure to chemicals (like those in shampoo) or air irritants such as dust or mold.

7. Check the dog’s eyes regularly and immediately report any changes to the vet.

8. Take the dog to the animal hospital immediately if he appears to have lost part or all of his vision.

Tips & Warnings

• Research all that you can about the dog breed (or breeds, if mixed) to understand which eye conditions are most likely to be exhibited.

• Research all eye conditions relevant to the breed and understand each condition's potential problems and consequences.

• Take the dog to the vet if you suspect any type of eye related problem.

• Never ignore problems related to the dog's eyesight. To do so could result in blindness.

• Avoid using any chemicals anywhere around the dog's eyes.

• Be careful when using grooming tools and equipment around the dog's eye area.