Causes of Red and Swollen Dog Eyes: What You Need to Kn

Many pet owners may not realize that dogs actually have "nearsightedness." For them, anything beyond 50 feet appears blurry, much like a severely nearsighted human. Despite their nearsightedness and color blindness, we can still detect potential health issues in dogs through their eyes. Now, let's delve into a common eye problem in dogs: what causes red and swollen eyes?

1. Foreign Objects in the Dog's Eyes

Foreign objects can enter a dog's eyes in various ways. For instance, when cleaning, dust and other particles can be carried into the air and into the dog's eyes. During a bath, the possibility of bathwater accidentally getting into the eyes is high if not carefully monitored. Additionally, if the dog is not properly isolated during household disinfection, the air can be filled with disinfectant molecules that can lead to infection in the eyes.

2. Allergies in Dogs

Just like humans, pets can also suffer from allergies, usually triggered by their diet or living environment. If a dog shows signs of allergies, pet owners should not resort to selfmedication. It's essential to take the dog to a veterinarian to identify the allergen and receive appropriate treatment, including allergy shots, to prevent future occurrences.

3. Eye Redness Due to Bacteria, Fungi, or Parasites

Bacterial infections often occur when a dog gets into a fight, is scratched by an object, or scratches its own eye, creating a wound that becomes exposed to the air and comes into contact with bacteria. Fungal infections can also cause eye redness, and it's important for owners to look for symptoms like scabs, dandruff, or ringworm on other parts of the dog's body to determine if a fungal infection is present. Parasite bites can also lead to eye swelling, so regular deworming is crucial.

4. Congenital Eyelid and Eyelash Issues

Dog eyelid abnormalities, such as inversion or eversion, can lead to eyelashes scratching the eye, causing redness. Inverted eyelids can trap tears, leading to dry corneas, while everted eyelids can concentrate tears in the eyelid pouch, also causing dryness. Additionally, misaligned eyelashes can rub against the eye, causing redness. Eyelid issues can often be corrected through surgery, and owners should regularly trim the dog's eye hair to minimize friction.

Redness in a dog's eyes can also be a symptom of other diseases, such as the common cold or canine distemper. It's always best for pet owners to consult a veterinarian if they suspect a health issue, to rule out possibilities and prevent the condition from worsening.

While the world to a dog may be black and white, you are the brightest color in their monochromatic world. Caring for your dog's eyes ensures that their gaze is filled not just with stars and the moon, but also with the most vivid image of you. After all, that's what dogs truly desire.