The large, expressive eyes of the shih tzu are perhaps its most endearing feature. Their round, full shape gives them an almost childlike quality, but unfortunately it is this appealing shape that puts them at risk for the disorder known as dry eye.
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Significance
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Dry eyes in your shih tzu can be the precursor to a serious condition called keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS). KCS occurs when your dog is unable to produce a sufficient amount of tears. A poorly lubricated eye is more vulnerable to infection and damage.
Breed Specifics
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The shih tzu, and other brachycephalic dogs (dogs with "pushed in" faces) such as pugs, lhasa apsos and pekingese are at a greater risk for dry eye. The eyes of a brachycephalic dog bulge toward the front of their faces which creates an eye surface larger then the eyelid can cover. This can cause insufficient lubrication and protection to the eye.
Identification
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Your shih tzu's veterinarian can use the Schirmer tear test to diagnose dry eye. It is a painless test that entails a strip of filter paper being placed inside the dog's eyelid to measure moisture.
Symptoms
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If your shih tzu has frequent redness in the eye, repeatedly suffers from eye infections, or if there is an appearance of damage to the cornea, ask the dog's veterinarian if a Schirmer tear test is indicated.
Treatment
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Shih tzus with dry eye can be given artificial tears in the form of eyedrops and topical antibiotics if they are needed for treating eye infections. Some shih tzus may benefit from medications that increase the production of natural tears. With proper care, shih tzus with dry eye can live a long, healthy life.
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