How to Handle Dog Eye Discharge and When to Worry
Eye discharge, often referred to by pet owners as “eye boogers,” is a common occurrence in dogs. Understanding when this discharge is normal and when it signals an underlying issue is crucial for maintaining your dog’s eye health and overall well-being.
Why Dogs Get Eye Discharge
Dogs produce tears to nourish and protect their eyes. These tears deliver oxygen and nutrients to the cornea and help flush away debris. Normally, tears drain through ducts located in the inner corners of each eye. However, sometimes these tears combine with other particles to form a crust or goop in the eye corners, especially noticeable in the morning.
Common Types of Eye Discharge
- Light-Colored Goop or Crust: Slight gray or reddish-brown crust is often harmless and common in dogs. This type of discharge, especially if consistent, can be gently cleaned away using a damp cloth.
- Watery Discharge: Excessive tearing, or epiphora, may stem from irritants like pollen or dust, blocked tear ducts, or structural issues in certain breeds.
- Reddish-Brown Tear Stains: Caused by a pigment called porphyrin, these are common in light-furred dogs and typically cosmetic. If they worsen or accompany other symptoms, consult a vet.
- White or Gray Mucus: May indicate dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca), which reduces tear production and requires veterinary treatment to avoid serious complications.
- Yellow or Green Discharge: Sign of infection and usually accompanied by swelling or redness. Immediate veterinary care is necessary.
- Stringy or Mucoid Discharge: Often a symptom of conjunctivitis, this discharge might also be paired with yellow or colored goo and requires diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Breed Predispositions
Some breeds are more prone to eye discharge due to their anatomy. For example:
- Brachycephalic Breeds: Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Bulldogs often have shallow eye sockets and rolled-in eyelids, making them more susceptible to irritation and drainage issues.
- Breeds with Loose Facial Skin: Bloodhounds and Cocker Spaniels are prone to conditions like cherry eye or ectropion, which can cause chronic eye discharge.
Other Causes of Eye Discharge
- Allergies: Seasons or environmental factors can cause watery eyes or mild discomfort.
- Foreign Bodies: Debris or ingrown eyelashes may result in sudden, localized discharge.
- Corneal Ulcers: Scratches or injuries causing painful redness and watery eyes should be treated immediately.
- Eyelid Abnormalities: Structural issues like entropion or ectropion may lead to ongoing tearing and require corrective surgery.
- Blocked Tear Ducts: Can result in overflow tears and staining, sometimes resolved with flushing or surgery.
- Systemic Illness: Symptoms like lethargy or coughing in combination with eye discharge suggest a wider health issue.
At-Home Care Tips
- Clean Gently: Use a damp cloth or pet-safe wipe to clean outward from the eye's inner corner to avoid introducing bacteria.
- Trim Nearby Hair: Prevent debris buildup by keeping facial fur trimmed around the eyes.
- Monitor Discharge: Keep track of any changes in color, consistency, amount, or associated behaviors.
- Hydration Aids: Artificial tears and saline solutions can help, but avoid human eye drops unless prescribed.
When to See the Vet
Seek immediate veterinary care if your dog exhibits:
- Yellow, green, or bloody discharge
- Eye redness, swelling, or signs of pain
- Squinting or rubbing at eyes
- Excessive or new discharge
- Other signs like coughing, lethargy, or appetite changes
Diagnosis may involve specialized tests such as the Schirmer tear test, corneal staining, or tonometry to determine the pressure inside the eye.
Prevention and Routine Care
- Inspect your dog’s eyes daily and clean as needed.
- Schedule regular grooming to keep facial hair from irritating eyes.
- Shield your pet from airborne irritants during walks or grooming sessions.
- Ensure regular veterinary checkups to catch early signs of eye disease.
Summary
Wiping away dog eye boogers is not just hygienic—it can also help detect underlying health conditions early. While mild discharge is often benign, changes in color, texture, volume, or accompanying symptoms warrant professional veterinary advice. With proactive at-home care and regular assessments, your dog’s eyes can stay healthy, clear, and comfortable.
