What Happens to a Bulldog When It Gets Entropion & Ectropion?

Dogs with excessive facial skin, like bulldogs, tend to have problems with their eyes. The extra skin causes two particular problems. One is entropion, a condition where the eyelid rolls inward. The opposite condition is ectropion which is characterized by the eyelid rolling outward. Both of these congenital problems require medical attention and are part of owning a bulldog.

  1. Swollen Eyelids

    • Both entropion and ectropion cause bulldog's eyelids to swell. In entropion the lower eyelid is generally the problem. As the eye rolls inward the lashes brush against the eyeball. This irritation causes the swelling. In ectropion the outward turn of the eye also causes swelling.

    Tearing

    • The brushing of the eyelashes against the eyeball in entropion causes tearing. The dog senses the eye irritation and does the only thing it knows how -- it rubs his eyes with his paws. This leads to irritated eyes that turn red, water up and produce tears. Tearing also results from ectropion as the eyes watering up in a natural reaction and self-defense mechanism.

    Surgery

    • Surgery is typically the remedy for entropion, as it is the only way to prevent the eyes from rolling inward. Surgery cures the problem in 90 to 95 percent of the cases, according to Michigan Ave Animal Hospital. The surgery involves removing tissue under each eye and then tying together the remaining tissue. This has the effect of pulling the eyelid down. The goal is to redo the eyes to a position like most dogs, thus reducing lash irritation.

    Decreased Vision

    • Both conditions affect the bulldog's ability to see. With entropion the diminished eyesight is accompanied by a sensitivity to light. With ectropion the cornea becomes inflamed due to being exposed.