Swollen Eyes in Dogs - Symptoms and Conjunctivitis In Dogs and Puppies

Considering that most dog owners consider their pets to be members of the family, it is not uncommon for a person to be significantly upset when seeing their dogs swollen up.



Since dogs generally tend to suffer in silence, one must be able to pick up any behavioral changes that could indicate a possible health concern. For example, when a dog has swollen eyes or red eyes, they tend to be rather irritable and restless. They will tend to rub their paws against their eyes in an attempt to ease the discomfort. The main idea of taking these indications seriously is because you never know if the condition is simply an allergic reaction or the signs of a terminal eye disease. You will want to take your dog to a veterinarian in order to correctly identify the condition as your treatment options will heavily depend on this.  

Symptoms of Swollen Eyes in Dogs

A dog’s eyes may be prone to a number of different infections and problems. The dog’s eye may also suffer from damage when a foreign particle or object lodges itself in the eye. The symptom of dog swollen eyes is indicative of such a problem.



Normally speaking, if both eyes are swollen then it is indicative of a more serious problem than just dirt that is lodged in the eyes. This situation might result in symptoms which include dog swollen eyes and face as well. When this problem occurs, it is important to visit a veterinarian. Only the vet would be able to make an accurate diagnosis and plan a subsequent treatment for the condition.

There are many different symptoms that will indicate some medical problem with the dog. These could include dog swollen eyes and face, dog swollen eyes and mouth, red swollen eyes in dogs, dog swollen eyelids and even dog swollen eyes with discharge coming from the eyes. We can now explore the various different ailments that could possible affect dogs.

Conjunctivitis In Dogs and Puppies

Conjunctivitis is a condition that is not alien to human beings as well. This is a condition where the ‘white’ part of the eye gets red and inflamed because of the presence of some infectious material in the area.



This infection can be caused by a viral or bacterial infection. It is not restricted to one particular type of infection. Canine conjunctivitis could even be caused by the presence of parasites in the area. It should be understood that dogs tend to sniff about and spend plenty of time outside and in garbage so as to find something to play with or to eat. This is why dogs tend to be prone to developing such conditions, particularly if they are allowed to roam around in unhygienic localities where there may be dirt and garbage strewn around.

Conjunctivitis is a condition that usually does not need treatment as it clears off on its own. However, you could use anti-bacterial ointments or oral medication to help hasten the process of recovery. You would also notice that the dog is very irritable at this time as conjunctivitis tends to promote itching in the eyes and the eyelids.

Apart from conjunctivitis there are other infections that lead to dog swollen eyes or puppy swollen eyes. These include conditions like blepharitis and scleritis. The treatment of these conditions is also done through oral medication although topical application of creams may be recommended to reduce the itchiness and irritation felt by the dog.

Whatever the condition that is causing the dog swollen eyes, it is important to follow some simple steps to help with the recovery of the condition. While the dog may be on treatment, some steps taken at home can help rid the animal of the annoying condition. One such step is associated with hygiene and cleanliness. Normally, one does not wash the dog every day. However, when there is an infection in the eye, it may be necessary to clean the dog more frequently, particularly the area around the affected eyes and face. This cleaning can be done immediately before the application of any topical creams or ointments. This will serve to ensure that dirt and infected discharge are removed from the area before it is covered with the ointment. Apart from this, one can ensure that the bedding material and any upholstery in the living area of the dog are washed and replaced so that any lingering infections in these parts of the house are removed. During an episode of dog swollen eyes, one should ensure that the dog gets plenty of vitamins and minerals in its diet so that recovery is hastened.

Conjunctivitis is one of the most common eye conditions that dogs suffer from. Conjunctivitis in dogs can be caused by either a viral or bacterial infection or parasites or tear duct disorders. Along with the dog eye swelling, one will also notice a discharge from the eye. The most effective treatment options can be taken in the form of antibacterial ointments or anti inflammatory medications that will be prescribed by your veterinarian. Blepharitis is another very common eye condition that dogs suffer from and is also characterized by a distinct sensitivity to light. The condition can be caused by a number of factors including chemical reactions, injuries or radiation therapies as well as parasitic infections. The condition can be treated by flushing out the irritant with the help of an antibacterial ointment. Cherry eye is a condition that affects mainly the younger dogs and is characterized by a prolapse of the gland of the third eyelid. This gland tends to protrude and get inflamed. Cataract is another very common problem that causes the swelling of the eyes. Essentially, cataract is the result of the presence of white opacities in the lens of the eye and the disease may either be congenital or acquired after birth. Cataract could also be caused by some other medical condition such as Diabetes Mellitus or even the result of various infections or radiation therapies. Artificial tears are one of the best first aid treatment options, but should only be administered once you have consulted your veterinarian. Dog swollen eye treatment includes washing the dogs eye with water. This will help flush out any foreign particles that may be the rot of the irritation.