How to Identify Common Dog Eye Problems

✓ Veterinarian Reviewed
Reviewed by Dr Gloria Ebeyer (BAVBS, DVM, Grad Cert SAECC, MANZCVS [Veterinary Practice])
Last reviewed: July 2026

Dog eye problems can sometimes be difficult to spot, particularly during their early stages. Knowing how to identify dog eye problems can help you recognise changes sooner and seek veterinary advice when needed.

This guide covers common signs, causes and dog eye conditions to look out for.

What do healthy dog eyes look like?

Healthy eyes are bright and clear. A small amount of clear discharge in the morning is generally normal, especially in breeds with prominent eyes or long fur around the face. If you notice your dog constantly rubbing their eyes with their paws, it may be a sign of an underlying problem. Being familiar with your dog's eyes makes it much easier to spot changes early.

Signs of eye problems in dogs

Redness, irritation or other changes may indicate an eye problem. Some things to look out for include:

• Redness in the white of the eye or surrounding skin
• Cloudiness, a blue-grey haze, or visible changes to the colour of the eye
• Thick yellow, or green discharge
• Excessive watering or tear staining
• Squinting, holding the eye partially or fully closed
• Swelling around the eye or eyelid
• Visible third eyelid, which is the pink membrane in the inner corner
• Pawing or rubbing at the face
• Bumping into objects or apparent vision loss
• A visible lump, growth, or change in the shape of the eye

Common dog eye diseases and conditions

Here are some of the most common dog eye conditions to look out for:

• Conjunctivitis: Inflammation of the membrane lining the eye and eyelid, often caused by allergies, irritants or infection. Common signs include redness, swelling and discharge.
  
  
• Dry eye: Occurs when a dog does not produce enough tears, resulting in a dry, irritated eye surface. Left untreated, it can damage the cornea.
  
  
• Cherry eye: A prolapse of the gland behind the third eyelid that appears as a red, fleshy lump in the inner corner of the eye. It is more common in breeds such as Bulldogs, Cocker Spaniels and Basset Hounds.
  
  
• Cataracts: Clouding of the lens that can affect vision and may lead to blindness in advanced cases. Cataracts can be age-related or associated with conditions such as diabetes.
  
  
• Corneal ulcers: Scratches or sores on the eye’s surface, often caused by injury, foreign objects or underlying conditions. They are usually painful and can worsen quickly.
  
  
• Glaucoma: A build-up of pressure within the eye that can cause pain and permanent vision loss if untreated.
  
  
• Tear staining: Common in light-coloured or flat-faced breeds and usually harmless. However, discomfort may indicate a blocked tear duct or underlying irritation.
  
  
• Proptosis: Occurs when the eyeball is pushed forward out of its socket, trapping the eyelids behind it. Flat-faced, short-snouted breeds such as Pugs, Shih Tzus, Boston Terriers and French Bulldogs are particularly at risk because of their shallow eye sockets.

What causes dog eye problems?

Dog eye problems may be caused by genetics, environmental irritants, injury or underlying health conditions. Common triggers include dust, smoke, pollen and bacterial, viral or fungal infections.

Scratches from rough play and foreign objects such as grass seeds can also cause problems. Breed-related structural traits may increase the risk, particularly in flat-faced or loose-skinned breeds.

Age-related changes, reduced tear production, diabetes and autoimmune disease may also contribute. Because the causes vary widely, diagnosis by a veterinarian is always recommended.

When to see a vet

It's a good idea to book a vet visit if you notice any persistent redness, discharge, squinting, or visible changes to your dog's eye that don't resolve within a day or two.

If your dog shows sudden vision loss, a visibly injured or bulging eye, or signs of severe pain or distress, treat it as an emergency. Petstock offers a range of vet services for dogs, with purpose-built animal hospitals fitted with the latest equipment.

Noticed something off with your dog's eyes? Check out Petstock’s full range of dog eye care products today.