Have you ever noticed your canine companion scratching at their eyes? It’s a familiar sight for many dog owners, but have you ever wondered why they do it? Our furry friends can’t always communicate their discomfort to us. It’s important for us to understand their behaviors and address any underlying issues.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the reasons behind why dogs scratch their eyes. Various factors, such as allergies and infections, can contribute to this behavior.
We’ll explore the unique anatomy of a dog’s eye compared to humans. We’ll also cover common causes of eye irritation in dogs. We’ll explain how to recognize signs of discomfort or pain in your pup. We’ll share preventive measures for maintaining healthy eyes. We’ll also discuss when it’s necessary to seek veterinary care.
By the end of this post, you’ll understand why your beloved pooch scratches at their eyes. You’ll also learn how you can help them maintain optimal eye health. So let’s dig in.
Why do dogs scratch their eyes?
Table of Contents
There are several reasons why dogs might scratch their eyes, including allergies, eye diseases, parasites, foreign objects, and eye abnormalities. These are some of the most common causes of eye scratching in dogs:
| Allergies | Allergies can be triggered by environmental factors like pollen and dust, or even food sensitivities. Canine atopic dermatitis (cAD) is a common inherited allergy that can cause red and itchy skin in dogs. Other types of allergies include flea allergy dermatitis and food allergies. |
| Eye Diseases | Dogs can develop various eye conditions such as pink eye, dry eyes, glaucoma, and corneal ulcers that can lead to eye scratching. These conditions are often painful and require diagnosis and treatment from a veterinarian. |
| Parasites | Parasites such as fleas and mites can irritate a dog’s skin and cause them to scratch at their eyes. Regular use of flea prevention and control can help prevent this issue. |
| Foreign Objects | Things like dirt or debris getting into the eyes can cause discomfort and lead to scratching. It’s important to regularly check your dog’s eyes for any foreign objects and remove them promptly. |
| Eye Abnormalities | Certain breeds are more susceptible to eye problems like ectropion or entropion, which can result in eye scratching. In some cases, corrective surgery may be necessary to prevent further damage to the eyes. |
To ensure your dog’s optimal health and well-being, seek proper diagnosis and treatment from a veterinarian if you notice them scratching their eyes. It is crucial.
Regular eye examinations can help identify potential issues. They can also prevent them from developing into more serious conditions.
Additionally, using protective gear such as goggles or face masks can help prevent further eye damage from scratching.
Reasons why dogs scratch their eyes
Dogs may scratch their eyes for various reasons, both medical and non-medical. These can include allergies, skin conditions, dry eye, corneal ulcers, glaucoma, eyelash defects, and mites that cause mange.
Non-medical causes can also contribute to eye irritation. These include dirt or dust entering the eye, foreign objects, or abnormalities in the eye itself.
Medical Causes:
Allergies:
Allergies are the most common cause of itchy eyes in dogs, just like us.
They can be triggered by environmental factors such as pollen or food. Common signs of allergies in dogs include skin itching, redness, and excessive tearing.
There are three main types of allergies that can affect your furry friend. They are environmental allergies, food allergies, and acute allergic reactions.
Environmental allergens can cause intense itching in areas such as paws and ears. If left untreated, this itching may lead to serious skin problems. Food allergies can develop over time. They often require an elimination diet to identify the trigger ingredient.
Acute allergic reactions can be life-threatening. They are usually caused by insect bites or vaccines.
Canine Atopic Dermatitis (cAD):
Canine Atopic Dermatitis (cAD) is a genetic condition that results in skin damage and is commonly caused by skin allergies.
It requires lifelong treatment to manage symptoms. Other underlying causes of cAD may include hormonal imbalances. Diseases such as hypothyroidism or cancer can also cause it.
Certain breeds are more prone to developing cAD. These breeds include West Highland White Terriers, Shar Peis, Boxers, Boston Terriers, Lhasa Apsos, Golden Retrievers, Dalmatians, Bulldogs, Chinese Shar Peis, Scottish Terriers, Poodles, and English Setters.
Dirt or Dust:
Irritation caused by dirt or dust entering a dog’s eyes can also lead to scratching.
This is particularly common during walks. They may come into contact with foreign substances. To prevent this, you can use protective gear such as goggles. You can also use wipes to clean their eyes after being outdoors.
Corneal Ulcers:
Corneal ulcers are wounds that penetrate through the outer layer of the eye. They can result in a cloudy, gray appearance.
They are typically caused by chemical burns or physical trauma. Immediate treatment is required to prevent blindness. If you suspect your dog has a corneal ulcer, it is crucial to seek veterinary care right away.
Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca):
Dry eye is a condition where the body attacks the gland responsible for producing tears. This results in dryness and potential damage to the cornea.
It is most commonly seen in breeds such as Cocker Spaniels, Bulldogs, West Highland White Terriers, and Shih Tzus.
3 tips on what to do when your dog has itchy eyes
There are many simple and effective strategies to help ease your pet’s itchy eyes.
These tips include:
- Flush the eyes with warm water or a gentle saline solution: In cases where your dog’s eyes are irritated by foreign objects or irritants, flushing them with warm water or a gentle saline solution can aid in removing the irritant and soothing their eyes. When performing this task, ensure that you use lukewarm water and a clean cloth or cotton ball to gently wipe away any debris.
- Use eye washes or drops for dogs: There are various eye washes and drops available in the market specifically designed for dogs. These products contain ingredients such as chamomile, aloe vera, and vitamin E that can effectively reduce inflammation and irritation.
- Administer medication: If your dog is experiencing an allergic reaction, your veterinarian may prescribe antihistamines, anti-inflammatories, or steroids to reduce itching and prevent scratching. These medications can be administered orally or in the form of eye drops.
- Prevent scratching: Scratching can worsen your dog’s itchy eyes and potentially cause further harm. To prevent this, using an Elizabethan collar, commonly known as a cone of shame, can prevent your dog from scratching their eyes while they heal.
- Use natural remedies: Natural remedies like bathing your dog with colloidal oatmeal, fish oil, or baking soda can provide relief from the itch and moisturize their skin. You can also consult with your veterinarian for other natural options that may be suitable for your furry friend.
Remember to always consult with your veterinarian if your dog’s itchy eyes do not improve or if there are signs of infection.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are various reasons why dogs may scratch their eyes. These include allergies, eye diseases, parasites, foreign objects, and eye abnormalities.
As pet owners, we must understand these potential causes. Then, we can take proactive steps to address them. Regular eye check-ups and preventive measures can help maintain your dog’s optimal eye health. Using protective gear is an example of a preventive measure.
If you notice your dog scratching their eyes, seek proper diagnosis and treatment from a veterinarian. Follow the tips in this article to keep your furry friend’s eyes healthy and free from irritation.
Our canine companions cannot directly communicate their discomfort to us. By being attentive and proactive, we can provide them with the care they need for happy and healthy eyes.
