Reasons Why a Dog's Eye Would Sink in

Eye problems in dogs are some of the most common reasons for veterinary visits, as their symptoms are extremely easy to see. Sunken eyes are a common symptom that dog owners can see, and the reasons why a dog's eye would sink in vary greatly. This type of eye problem may or may not be a serious situation, depending on the severity and underlying cause.

  1. Dehydration

    • Sunken eyes combined with dry gums or tongue and loose skin can be associated with dehydration. Sunken eyes can also occur in association with numerous other conditions that cause excessive fluid loss, such as high fevers, vomiting or diarrhea. Dehydration is always considered an emergency, so you should take your dog to the vet immediately. Water alone may not be enough to reverse the effects of dehydration warns Vetinfo.com, a website with information written by veterinarians.

    Trauma

    • Trauma to a dog's head may cause muscle or nerve damage that may affect the dog's eyes. Horner's Syndrome is often the result of such trauma and occurs when the sympathetic nerves fail to stimulate certain facial muscles. According to Carrie Gustavson from the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Illinois, the dog may also exhibit smaller pupils, droopy upper eyelids, protruding third eyelids and dilation of blood vessels, in addition to the sunken eyes.

    Diseases

    • Numerous diseases can have a sinking effect on a dog's eyes. Examples of such diseases include parvovirus, rabies, meningitis, lyme disease, encephalitis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever and diseases of the organs. Treatment varies and depends on the type of disease affecting the eyes.

    Glaucoma

    • Ron Ofri, DVM, of the Koret School of Veterinary Medicine in the Hebrew University of Jerusalem describes dogs with canine glaucoma as often having bulgy, protruding eyes but, occasionally, dogs experience sunken eyes, instead. Other symptoms associated with glaucoma are cloudy pupils, sensitivity to light and tearing. Veterinarians often prescribe drugs to help the glaucoma and prevent blindness. In extreme cases, surgery is necessary.

    Tumors

    • Tumors in the eye region or, even, elsewhere in the head may affect how certain nerves communicate with the muscles near the dog's eyes. As a result, the muscles may not function correctly and pull the eyes further into the socket than they should. Veterinarians may opt to remove tumors surgically if they determine they are malignant and dangerous to the dog's health.