Understanding Entropion in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Entropion is a common yet serious eye condition in dogs where the eyelid turns inward. This abnormal rolling means that the hairs or lashes on the eyelid rub directly against the cornea—the clear surface of the eye—causing pain, irritation, and sometimes severe complications.
What Happens When a Dog Has Entropion?
When a dog's eyelid rolls inward, every blink scrapes sensitive corneal tissue with rough hairs. Over time, this constant friction can lead to:
- Pain and discomfort (dogs may squint or keep their eyes shut)
- Excessive tearing (epiphora)
- Redness and visible blood vessels on the cornea
- Goopy or mucoid discharge from the eyes
- Corneal ulcers or sores
- Pigment changes (brown coloring) on the cornea
- Recurring infections or conjunctivitis
- Pawing or rubbing at the eyes
If left untreated, entropion can cause deep ulcers, scarring, chronic pain, and even blindness. In severe cases, loss of the eye may occur.
Which Dogs Are at Risk?
This condition most often affects both eyes and usually appears before a dog turns one year old. Certain breeds are predisposed due to hereditary factors. These include:
- Shar Pei
- Chow Chow
- Bulldog
- St Bernard
- Golden Retriever
- Labrador Retriever
- Boxer
- Pug
- Bloodhound
- Cocker Spaniel
- Mastiff breeds
Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds, like Pugs and Bulldogs, may develop inner-corner (medial) entropion but sometimes show little obvious discomfort.
The lower eyelids are most commonly affected, but upper lids or both can be involved. While genetics play a big role, entropion might also develop due to:
- Eyelid scarring from injury or skin disease
- Aging (sagging skin)
- Dramatic weight loss affecting facial tissues
- Anatomical traits unique to certain breeds/faces
- Chronic eye pain from other causes (like ulcers)
How Is Entropion Diagnosed?
A veterinarian will perform a thorough eye exam looking for rolled-in eyelids. To fully assess damage and rule out related problems, they may use:
- Fluorescein dye test: Detects corneal ulcers.
- Schirmer tear test: Measures tear production.
- Tonometry: Checks intraocular pressure.
If it's unclear whether spastic blinking is causing temporary rolling (spastic entropion), local anesthetic drops may help distinguish between structural/congenital versus secondary causes.
Treatment Options for Entropion in Dogs
Treatment depends on age, cause, severity, and risk factors for anesthesia. The main goal is to prevent further irritation and protect vision.
- Puppies/Young Dogs: Temporary tacking sutures can hold the eyelid outward while the face grows. This avoids overcorrection during puppyhood.
- Surgical Correction: Most adult dogs require surgery—usually a blepharoplasty such as the Hotz-Celsus procedure. Here’s how it works:
- A wedge of skin is removed from just below/above the lid margin.
- The edges are sutured so that the lid margin rolls outward again.
Surgery might be delayed until full growth is reached to avoid overcorrection (which could cause ectropion—outward rolling). Some cases need two surgeries for best results.
- Nonsurgical Options: For those at high anesthetic risk or needing temporary relief, hyaluronic acid injections can evert lids for short periods.
Caring for Your Dog After Surgery
The recovery period is typically straightforward but requires careful attention:
- An Elizabethan collar prevents rubbing/scratching during healing.
- Your vet will prescribe antibiotic ointments/drops and possibly oral medications for infection or pain control.
- Sutures used are often absorbable; healing takes about 10–14 days.
The Prognosis: What Can You Expect?
If treated early—before severe corneal damage—most dogs recover well after surgery and live comfortably thereafter. Some breeds (especially Shar Peis with lots of facial folds) may experience recurrence requiring further intervention. Delayed treatment increases risks of permanent vision loss or even removal of an irreparably damaged eye.
Avoiding Future Problems: Breeding Advice & Monitoring Signs
You shouldn’t breed affected dogs since entropion is largely hereditary. If you notice your dog squinting, tearing excessively, rubbing its face, or showing red/discolored eyes—see your vet promptly. Early intervention makes all the difference in protecting your pet’s sight and comfort.
