Dog Can't Open Eyes: Possible Causes & Solutions

Why Can't My Dog Open Its Eyes, and Why Are They Red?

What Causes a Dog to Have Difficulty Opening Its Eyes?

1. Bacterial or Fungal Infections

2. Congenital Obstruction of the Tear Ducts

3. Overconsumption of Spicy or HighSodium Foods

4. Long Eyelashes That Rub Against the Eye

Caution: If your dog's eye discharge is yellow or green, be vigilant. If it's accompanied by diarrhea and fever, it could be a sign of parvovirus, which is quite serious!

Conjunctivitis is one of the most common eye diseases in dogs, affecting over 70% of them at some point. Symptoms include red conjunctiva, a reddened cornea, and an increase in eye discharge.

How to Treat Conjunctivitis: A Few Tips

1. Clean Eye Discharge: Regularly use clean water or a dogspecific disinfectant to wipe away any discharge around the eyes to prevent secondary infections.

2. Use DogSpecific Eye Drops: These drops can quickly reduce inflammation. Administer them as directed, a few times a day, for a quicker recovery. However, be careful not to get them on the actual eye, but rather on the white part of the eye, as dogs' eyes are quite delicate.

3. Trim Eyelashes: Dogs can have irregular eyelash growth, which can lead to ingrown eyelashes that irritate the eye and potentially cause conjunctivitis. Regularly check and trim any extra or misaligned lashes to keep your dog comfortable and prevent infections.

It's best to use dogspecific eye drops for inflammation, as they are most effective. Just make sure to clean the area around the eyes before applying them.

Conjunctivitis in dogs should not be taken lightly. Improper treatment can lead to more severe keratitis, potentially resulting in blindness.

How to Prevent Dog Conjunctivitis

1. Be cautious when your dog is outdoors to prevent foreign objects like insects, dust, and fur from getting into its eyes. If your dog frequently blinks or scratches at its eyes, it's a sign to check for and remove any foreign bodies. Regularly trim long eyelashes to prevent irritation.

2. When bathing your dog, be mindful to avoid getting water or shampoo near its eyes. Avoid activities like fireworks or pesticide spraying around your dog.

3. If your dog contracts diseases like canine distemper, canine infectious hepatitis, dacryocystitis, or nasolacrimal duct obstruction, treat them promptly. Also, keep your dog's eyes clean and free of discharge by wiping them regularly.

If you're unsure about the cause or treatment, it's best to consult a veterinarian. Prompt treatment for dog conjunctivitis is crucial!