Puppy Allergies in the Eyes

Just like humans, dogs can develop allergies, even as small pups. Allergies in the eyes are seen in all breeds of puppies who have a sensitivity to things in the environment like pollen, trees and other plants. A puppy with eye allergies will suffer with itchy runny, red eyes. The Go Pets American Website, says conjunctivitis (pink eye) is commonly seen in dogs. This condition is caused by inflammation and can be mistaken for allergies. If the allergies are severe and your dog is constantly weeping, see your vet for treatment options.

  1. Inhalant Allergies

    • According to the Nelson Animal Hospital, there are several different types of allergies seen in dogs; however, there are only two main types of eye allergies that affect dogs and puppies. These two main types are inhalant allergies and bacterial allergies. Inhalant allergies are also called atopy.

      Puppies exhibit allergy symptoms and red eyes from irritants like dust mites, ragweed and cedar. Mold, mildew and household chemicals can also cause your puppy to suffer with allergies. Allergies can be year round or seasonal depending on how severe they are. Puppies with severe allergies may need medicated eye drops.

    Bacterial Allergies

    • Puppies can also suffer from bacterial allergies such as Staphylococcus (Staph). This is a less common type of dog allergy. The Nelson Animal Hospital Website says if your puppy has a strong immune system the staph will not cause problems; however, if your dog's immunity is impaired or the flesh around the eyes is not healthy a serious problem can develop.

      The puppy can develop hair loss and an infection. The only course of treatment is antibiotics, yet using too much over time can cause your dog to develop a resistance, which is another problem all by itself.

    Prevention

    • The Nelson Animal Hospital Website says, there are some things you can do to help prevent allergies. They recommend giving your dog 100 IU of vitamin E and 100 mg of vitamin C each day for every 10 lbs. of body weight. So, if your puppy is only 5 lbs., cut this dosage in half and increase it as your dog grows older. Calendula ointment is an herbal medication found at health food stores that can soothe itchy areas around your dogs eyes.

      Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats that can boost your dogs immune system. Give your puppy 1 tbsp. of cod liver oil per day as this contains high amounts of omega-3 fats and other nutrients. Keep the hair around your dogs eyes trimmed clean. In addition, feed your dog a high quality dog food with added nutrients and protein.