Eye health in dogs is just as important as their overall well-being. Symptoms such as discharge, redness, or swelling in the eyes may be caused by a temporary irritation, but they can also signal a serious infection. In this article, we will explain the possible causes of eye discharge and redness in dogs, when veterinary intervention is necessary, and how to provide proper at-home care.

1. What Are the Symptoms of Eye Discharge and Redness?

• Clear, white, yellow, or green discharge

• Crusting or dryness around the eyes

• Frequent rubbing or scratching with paws

• Swelling of the eyelids

• Redness or visible blood vessels in the eyes

• Sensitivity to light

• Squinting or keeping the eyes closed

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2. What Are the Causes?
Eye discharge and redness can occur for various reasons:

a. Allergies:
Environmental allergens such as pollen, dust, perfume, or cleaning products can irritate the eyes.

b. Eye infections (conjunctivitis):
Viral, bacterial, or fungal infections are common and usually accompanied by discharge and swelling.

c. Foreign bodies:
Dust, sand, or small plant particles can cause irritation when they enter the eye.

d. Eye injuries:
Scratches, collisions, or fights may damage the eye surface.

e. Blocked tear ducts:
Common in small breeds. When tears cannot drain properly, constant discharge occurs.

f. Structural eye problems:
Breeds like Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Bulldogs have more exposed eyes, making them prone to irritation.

g. Dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca):
Insufficient tear production can damage the cornea.

h. Serious eye diseases such as glaucoma or uveitis

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3. How to Clean at Home?
Home care is only suitable for mild and short-term symptoms. Steps:

a. Use sterile gauze or cotton pads (avoid fluffy cotton balls).
b. Use lukewarm sterile water or a vet-approved eye-cleaning solution.
c. Gently wipe the eye area. Clean in one direction—from the inner corner outward.
d. Use a separate pad for each eye to prevent spreading infection.
e. If dryness persists, use soothing eye lotions recommended by your vet.

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4. When to See a Veterinarian?
Seek immediate veterinary care if:

• The discharge is yellow or green and heavy

• The eye is swollen or remains shut

• Sensitivity to light is present

• There is whiteness, cloudiness, or opacity on the eye surface

• Symptoms don’t improve within 24 hours

• Trauma or foreign body in the eye is suspected

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5. Preventive Tips

• Trim the fur around the eyes regularly.

• Avoid contact with chemicals like perfumes or shampoos.

• Wipe the eye area after outdoor walks, especially during pollen season.

• Be cautious during walks in windy weather.

• Strengthen the immune system with quality dry food and supportive vitamins.

Conclusion:
Redness and discharge in your dog’s eyes are signs that should be taken seriously. With early intervention and regular cleaning, most issues can be managed easily. However, in more serious cases, seeking veterinary care without delay is the most important step to protecting your dog’s eye health.