Pug Eye Problems

The pug breed is an ancient one and, according to the American Kennel Club, his features have been largely unchanged during that time -- including his large and expressive eyes. However, a pug's eyes can incur a multitude of problems, including being susceptible to debris and scratches. The pug is also prone to a number of inherited eye ailments. Pug owners must be keep close watch on their pets' eyes to ensure their health and well-being.

  1. Corneal Ulcers

    • Ulcers -- abrasions or lesions on the eye's surface -- are probably the most common eye problem in pugs. Your pug may acquire a corneal ulcer in a number of ways: trauma, dry eyes, infection, foreign bodies like sand or dirt, or even an eyelash that has grown in the wrong direction. Signs that your pug may have a corneal ulcer include tearing, squinting, avoiding light, clouding on the eye and irritation of the third eyelid. If you suspect an ulcer, get your pug immediate veterinary attention to relieve his pain and prevent further damage.

    Cataracts

    • A cataract is protein formation on the eye's lens. Cataracts can be inherited or caused by trauma, inflammation or diabetes. A cataract will appear as a cloudy film on your pug's eye. Untreated cataracts can cause loss of vision, glaucoma, retinal detachment and degeneration. Because of the tender nature of your pug's eyes, it is essential that a veterinarian treat the cataract immediately.

    Entropion

    • Entropion is a genetic condition in which the eyelids roll inward, causing hair and eyelashes to rub against the surface of the eye, which can result in corneal scratches, ulcers, irritation, and if left untreated, blindness. It most commonly occurs on the bottom lid, in the corner closest to the nose. If your pug has entropion, you may notice her tearing and blinking more than usual. Your pug must have the entropion surgically corrected.

    Exposure Keratopathy Syndrome

    • Exposure keratopathy syndrome is when your pug cannot completely close his eyelids while sleeping. If left untreated, the exposed portion of the corneas will dry out and visible stripes of pigmentation will form across the midpoints of your pug's eyes. Your vet may prescribe a lubricant to apply to your pug's eyes to keep his corneas moist.

    Pigmentary Keratitis

    • Pigmentary keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea characterized by brown spots spattered across the surface of the eyes. It is thought to result from trauma. Your veterinarian may prescribe a steroid, like cyclosporine or Gentocin Dura-Film, or he may opt to perform surgery to remove the spots.

    Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca

    • Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, or dry eye, is a common condition in pugs. Dogs with keratoconjunctivitis sicca do not produce enough tears. The condition may be genetic, or caused by trauma, antibiotics, allergies, viruses or exposure to anesthesia. Symptoms of keratoconjunctivitis sicca include redness, discharge and pain -- you may notice your pug rubbing his eyes. Your veterinarian may prescribe a topical steroid, like cyclosporine, to increase tear production and artificial tears to supply extra moisture.

    Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

    • PRA is an inherited condition that causes the slow degeneration of your pug's retinas, leading to blindness by the time your pug reaches middle age at 5 to 7 years. Symptoms of PRA are subtle: He may experience night blindness or have unusually dilated pupils. Unfortunately, there is no treatment for PRA.