Dog Eyelid Illnesses

There are a number of diseases, infections and conditions that can affect the eyelids of dogs. Some diseases are bacterial in nature; others are caused by viruses. Many of these conditions require immediate veterinary care because they can have unwanted, adverse and permanent effects on the eyes and the surrounding structures.

  1. Entropion

    • Veterinarian Bari Spielman of PetPlace.com states that entropion is an inherited illness in which the eyelid rolls inward. This inward rolling can affect the upper or lower eyelid, though typically the lower eyelid is affected. Entropion can lead to an infection as well as permanent scratching of the eyeball surface. Treatment for canine entropion involves surgical correction; however, if caught early during puppyhood, an eyelid-tacking procedure may be used.

    Cherry Eye

    • Dogs have what is referred to as a third eyelid located in the inner corners of the eyes. This eyelid contains a tear gland and should not be visible under normal circumstances. When this eyelid becomes visible and swells up, it is referred to as cherry eye. The treatment for cherry eye involves surgical correction. Without surgery, the gland will continue to protrude into the eye and can result in complications such as infection or dry eye.

    Ectropion

    • While entropion is the inward turning of the eyelids, ectropion is the outward turning of the eyelids. Like its counterpart, ectropion requires surgery. Left untreated, ectropion can lead to permanent damage to the eye or to other eye issues such as dry eye.

    Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

    • Conjunctivitis, more commonly referred to as "pink eye," is a condition in which the lining of the eyelids become infected. These infections are often bacterial but can also be due to a fungus or virus. Unfortunately, much like the human version, canine conjunctivitis is highly contagious and can even be spread from dog to owner. Depending on the cause of the infection, the dog will require either antibiotic, antifungal or other medications.

    Blepharitis

    • According to the website PetMD.com, blepharitis is a condition in which the eyelid becomes thick, red and inflamed. Blephartis can also cause small, white pimples located along the edges of the eyelids. Unfortunately, blepharitis is difficult to treat and may require a long-term treatment approach involving daily cleanings of the crust around the affected eye as well as oral and topical antibiotics. Blepharitis can result in permanent damage to the eye if left untreated.