Dog Eye Area Hair Loss & Swelling: Possible Causes & So

Understanding the Causes of Hair Loss and Swelling Around a Dog's Eyes:

1. Dietary Factors

While dogs have been domesticated by humans for a long time and have gradually adapted to human diets, their internal organs still differ from ours. Some foods and substances are indigestible to dogs, and even toxic. One common cause of hair loss around a dog's eyes is the consumption of highsodium foods, which can overwhelm their bodies and lead to hair loss. To address this, it's crucial to switch to a lowsodium diet, whether it's commercial dog food or homemade meals. Remember, adequate hydration is the cornerstone of this approach.

2. Bacterial Infection

When a dog's eyes become inflamed, they may scratch them frequently due to itching, which can lead to skin irritation around the eyes. This irritation can result in redness, swelling, and hair loss. The bacteria typically responsible for eye inflammation in dogs are mycoplasma and chlamydia, while viruses like herpes and calicivirus are also common culprits. Often, dogs suffer from a combination of viral and bacterial infections. To treat these issues, it's best to start by cleaning the eye area with saline solution, followed by applying antibacterial and antiviral ointments.

3. Parasitic Infection

Redness around a dog's eyes can also be caused by parasites such as mites and fleas. These parasites attach themselves to the skin around the eyes, piercing the skin to feed on blood. The skin around the eyes becomes swollen after being bitten, and secondary bacterial infections can further worsen the condition. If left untreated, repeated parasitic infections can lead to the spread of infection to the inner eye, causing more severe damage. It's essential to take action to prevent this from happening.

Pet Doctor's Tip: For more information on your dog's eyes, check out our article "A Cloudy Membrane Over a Dog's Eyes" for further insights.