As a dog owner, it’s not uncommon to notice your furry friend has eye boogers or discharge. While some eye discharge is normal, it can also be a sign of an underlying issue. In this article, we’ll delve deeper into the causes of dog eye boogers, how to clean and manage them, and provide tips on preventing eye problems in dogs.
Causes of Dog Eye Boogers
Allergies: Clear eye discharge can be caused by environmental allergens like dust, pollen, or other particles in the air. If your dog has allergies, you may notice that their eye discharge is clear and watery. Your veterinarian can help you determine if allergies are the cause of your dog’s eye boogers and recommend treatment options.
Conjunctivitis: Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the eye lining, characterized by yellow-green pus or watery discharge. This condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
Blocked tear ducts
Allergies
Foreign bodies
Dry eye
The distemper virus (mostly in puppies and younger dogs)
Cancerous growths
Other symptoms of conjunctivitis in dogs include:Inflamed eyes
Red eyes
Squinting
Excessive blinking
Crusty matter around the eyes
Pawing at the eyes
Epiphora (Excessive Tearing): Epiphora is a condition characterized by excessive tearing, which can lead to eye boogers. This condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
Ingrown eyelashes
Allergies
Irritation
Corneal ulcers
Tumors
Eye pain
If your dog has epiphora, you may notice that their eyes are constantly watery, and they may have dark staining or smelly hair around their eyes.
Glaucoma: Glaucoma is a condition caused by excessive pressure in the eye, which can lead to bulging eyes, excessive tearing, and cloudy eyes. Glaucoma can be a serious condition that requires prompt veterinary attention.
Dry Eye: Dry eye is a condition characterized by inadequate tear production, which can lead to sticky eye discharge. This condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
Injury
The distemper virus
The body’s immune system impairing tear gland tissue function
Dogs with dry eye tend to be prone to eye infections, inflammation, and corneal ulcers.
Breed Issues: Some breeds are more prone to eye boogers due to their anatomy. For example:
Flat-faced breeds like boxers, pugs, and bulldogs are prone to eye boogers due to their shallow eye sockets and potential tear drainage issues.
Breeds like bloodhounds, cocker spaniels, beagles, and some terriers are prone to a condition known as ectropion, where the eyelids roll outward.
Cleaning and Managing Dog Eye Discharge
Dog Tear Stain Remover: There are many products available that can help remove tear stains and eye boogers from your dog’s eyes. These products come in the form of solutions and wipes.
Pet Eyewash: Eye drops can help lubricate the eyes, flush out irritants, and alleviate allergic reactions. There are many types of eye drops available, including artificial tears and medicated drops.
Warm Washcloth: A warm washcloth can be used to soften eye boogers and gently wipe them away. This is a gentle and effective way to clean your dog’s eyes.
Lubricating Eye Drops: Lubricating eye drops are a non-toxic and safe option for managing eye discharge in dogs. These drops are specifically designed for use in dogs and can help to lubricate the eyes and reduce irritation.
Steps for Applying Eyedrops
Keep the eye drops nearby: Make sure you have the eye drops easily accessible before you start.
Clean away any discharge: Use a warm washcloth to gently clean away any discharge or debris from your dog’s eyes.
Tilt your dog’s head back: Gently tilt your dog’s head back to make it easier to access their eyes.
Rest your hand on your dog’s head: Rest your hand on your dog’s head to help keep them steady and prevent them from moving.
Squeeze a few drops into the upper part of the eye: Squeeze a few drops of the eye drops into the upper part of your dog’s eye, being careful not to touch the eye itself.
Preventing Eye Boogers in Dogs
Daily Eye Care: Daily eye care is essential for maintaining your dog’s eye health. This includes:
Avoiding touching the eyeball directly
Trimming fur around the eyes to prevent irritation
Control Allergens: Reducing exposure to allergens like pollen, dust, and smoke can help to prevent eye boogers.
Proper Grooming: Keeping your dog’s fur trimmed, especially around the eyes, can help to prevent hair from poking or rubbing against the eyes.
Avoid Irritants: Keeping harmful chemicals and irritants away from your dog’s eyes can help to prevent eye boogers.
Toys and Play Safety: Using safe toys that won’t harm your dog’s eyes during play can help to prevent eye injuries.
Understanding Eye Discharge Colors
Infections: Bacterial or viral infections can cause eye discharge, often with red, inflamed eyes and noticeable discharge.
Dry Eye Syndrome: Contrary to its name, dry eye syndrome can lead to increased eye discharge.
Age-Related Changes: Older dogs may develop eye discharge due to age-related changes in their eyes.
Signs to Watch For
Green, Yellow, or Rusty Brown Discharge: Monitor for changes in discharge color, as this can indicate an underlying issue.
Increase in Discharge Amount: Watch for an increase in discharge amount, as this can indicate an underlying issue.
Thick, Gooey Consistency: Check for a thick, gooey consistency of the discharge, as this can indicate an underlying issue.
Associated Redness or Swelling: Look for redness or swelling around the eyes, as this can indicate an underlying issue.
Squinting or Blinking Excessively: Monitor for squinting or blinking excessively, as this can indicate an underlying issue.
Your Role in Your Dog’s Eye Health
As a responsible pet owner, it’s essential to maintain your dog’s eye health. This includes:
Ensuring a balanced diet: Ensuring your dog has a balanced diet rich in vitamins and nutrients that support eye health.
Staying informed: Staying informed about common eye issues in dogs, especially those prevalent in your dog’s breed.
Monitoring for signs: Monitoring for signs of eye problems, such as changes in discharge color or amount, redness or swelling, and squinting or blinking excessively.
Seeking veterinary attention: Seeking veterinary attention if you notice any signs of eye problems or if you have concerns about your dog’s eye health.
By following these tips and being aware of the causes and signs of dog eye boogers, you can help keep your furry friend’s eyes healthy and happy. Remember, if you’re ever in doubt about your dog’s eye health, it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian for professional advice.
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Why Does My Dog Have Eye Boogers? Dog Eye Discharge
Charlotte qualified as a veterinarian in 2023 and has been working as a writer for several years helping pet parents understand how to help their pets live happy healthy lives whilst pursuing her interests in wildlife conservation.
She enjoys traveling and has undertaken positions in Belgium, Spain, Austria, Germany, and the Galapagos and has a 15-year-old rescue dog called Chiki.
