Entropion is a painful condition in dogs where the eyelids turn inward toward the eye, causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea. It is most often a congenital disease caused by the structure of the face and the musculature of the eyelids, but it can also be caused by trauma, infection or muscle loss around the eyes due to old age or weight loss.
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Tearing and Redness
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In less severe cases of entropion, excessive tearing and redness on and around the eye are common. There may be muscle spasms in the eyelid and around the eye, and even an involuntary closing of the eye called blepharospasm.
In-rolling Eyelids
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Poodles are also susceptible to entropion. If the disease is pronounced, the in-rolling of the eyelids is visible and ingrown or out-of-place eyelashes may appear around the eyelid edges. The upper or lower lid or both can roll inward, causing the skin around the eye to appear thick and heavy. In addition, the cornea will begin to form excessive scar tissue from the constant scratching of the eyelashes.
Ocular Discharge
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A symptom of severe entropion is a thick, gummy ocular discharge. If an infection has been induced by the corneal rubbing of the eyelashes, the discharge will sometimes contain pus and/or blood, and the eyes will appear swollen. The eyelids may become matted together so the eyes won't open. Inexperienced dog owners may mistake the condition in puppies, assuming the puppies haven't matured enough for their eyes to open, when in fact they have a severe case of congenital entropion.
Constant Pain
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Congenital entropion usually appears during a puppy's first year. Entropion is painful and will affect the animal's behavior causing it to become aggressive, depressed, withdrawn or anxious. The animal may cause further injury to its eyes in an effort to relieve the pain by rubbing or scratching, and in extreme cases, the cornea can rupture. The application of eye drops or other topical medicines can provide relief from the symptoms but the only effective cure is surgery.
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