Bassett Hound Eye Problems

Basset hounds, which are descended from bloodhounds, were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885. Basset hounds are generally healthy, but they are susceptible to a number of different inherited eye disorders.

  1. Types

    • Basset hounds are affected by both ectropion and entropion. Ectropion is characterized by rolled-out or sagging eyelids, while entropion is a rolling-in of the eyelids. They are also susceptible to a disorder called exposure keratopathy syndrome, a misplaced gland in the third eyelid commonly known as cherry eye, and glaucoma.

    Effects

    • Ectropion leaves too much of the surface of the eye exposed, which causes irritation. In entropion, hairs and eyelashes damage the eye by rubbing against the cornea. Dogs with exposure keratopathy syndrome have chronically irritated eyes because of constant eye surface exposure, leading to corneal ulcers. Cherry eye, a condition where the gland inside the cartilage extends over the third eyelid&'s border, causes redness and swelling. Glaucoma is a blinding disease caused by a painful buildup of fluid pressure inside the eye.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Severe ectropion and entropion are corrected through surgery. Exposure keratopathy syndrome is corrected by surgically reducing the size of the eyelid opening. Cherry eye requires surgical re-anchoring of the gland and cartilage back into their correct position. Veterinarians treat glaucoma with a combination of anti-glaucoma medication and surgery.