Dog Eye Problems: What Different Symptoms Mean
Quick Answer: Watch and Assess
A small amount of clear discharge is normal. Red, painful, cloudy, or suddenly blind eyes need same-day veterinary attention -- eye conditions can deteriorate rapidly.
The eyes are sensitive and conditions that seem minor can progress quickly. When in doubt, err on the side of a vet call.
Most Common Causes
Conjunctivitis (common)
Pink or red eyes with discharge. Can be viral, bacterial, or allergic. Common and treatable.
Eye discharge (normal variation) (common)
Small amounts of clear or brownish discharge, especially in the corners, is normal. Excessive or discolored discharge is not.
Dry eye (KCS) (moderate)
Thick, mucoid discharge. Eyes look dull and uncomfortable. Requires lifelong treatment.
Corneal ulcer (moderate)
Squinting, pawing at eye, clear or mucoid discharge, may be visible white or cloudy spot on the eye. Painful.
Glaucoma (moderate)
Increased pressure in the eye. Often presents with sudden pain, enlarged eye, redness. Can cause permanent vision loss within hours.
Cherry eye (third eyelid prolapse) (moderate)
Red fleshy mass in inner corner of the eye. More common in certain breeds. Not painful, but requires surgical correction.
Wait, Act, or Emergency?
You Can Watch and Wait If:
- Small amount of clear discharge, no squinting or redness
Call or Visit Your Vet If:
- Any squinting or keeping one eye closed
- Yellow or green discharge
- Red or bloodshot whites of the eye
- Dog pawing at their eye
Go to Emergency Vet Immediately If:
- Sudden cloudiness or bulging of the eye
- Eye that has popped out of socket (proptosis) -- cover with moist cloth and go immediately
- Sudden apparent blindness
Our interactive checker walks you through symptoms, severity, and duration -- and gives you a clear go/wait/monitor answer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Your Dog an American Bulldog?
American Bulldogs have breed-specific health vulnerabilities. ABRA-registered dogs from health-tested lines have better documented health histories.