Best dog breeds that need regular eye cleaning

Dogs are beloved members of many households, but some breeds come with specific grooming needs—particularly when it comes to eye care. Certain dog breeds are more prone to eye discharge, tear staining, or infections due to their facial anatomy, coat type, or genetic predispositions. Regular eye cleaning isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s essential for preventing discomfort, infections, and vision problems. This article explores the best dog breeds that require regular eye cleaning and offers guidance on how to care for their eyes effectively.

Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is known for its adorable flat face and long, luxurious coat, but these traits also make them prone to eye issues. Their large, protruding eyes are easily irritated by dust, hair, and other environmental factors. Tear staining is also a common concern.

Eye Care Tips:

• Use a soft, damp cloth or canine eye wipes daily.

• Keep facial hair trimmed to prevent it from irritating the eyes.

• Consult a vet if discharge becomes excessive or changes color.

Pekingese

Another flat-faced (brachycephalic) breed, the Pekingese has prominent eyes that are vulnerable to injury and infection. Their facial structure can cause tear duct issues, leading to chronic staining and discharge.

Eye Care Tips:

• Gently clean around the eyes every day.

• Avoid letting the fur grow too long near the eyes.

• Regular veterinary checkups are recommended to monitor for ulcers or infections.

Maltese

The Maltese, with its long white coat and expressive eyes, is especially prone to tear staining. The contrast between their white fur and reddish-brown stains from tears can be striking and undesirable.

Eye Care Tips:

• Use tear stain removers formulated for dogs.

• Clean the area under the eyes at least once a day.

• Ensure the diet does not contribute to excessive tearing.

Poodle (Toy and Miniature)

Toy and Miniature Poodles are not only stylish but also sensitive when it comes to their eyes. Their dense, curly fur can grow into their eyes if not regularly groomed, leading to irritation and tearing.

Eye Care Tips:

• Schedule regular grooming sessions.

• Use pH-balanced eye wipes to clean discharge.

• Trim facial hair frequently to avoid eye contact.

Bichon Frise

With a coat similar to the Maltese, the Bichon Frise is another breed that deals with tear staining and eye discharge. Their curly coat tends to trap moisture, which can exacerbate staining and lead to infections if not addressed promptly.

Eye Care Tips:

• Daily eye wiping with gentle pads.

• Maintain hygiene around the eyes and muzzle.

• Keep the fur short around the eyes to minimize buildup.

Bulldog (English and French)

Both English and French Bulldogs are prone to tear staining and eye discharge due to their short snouts and deep facial folds. These breeds often have narrow tear ducts and prominent eyes, increasing the risk of conjunctivitis and infections.

Eye Care Tips:

• Regularly clean the folds and under-eye area.

• Watch for signs of red, irritated eyes or greenish discharge.

• Use vet-approved products to prevent bacterial buildup.

Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels are known for their soulful eyes and lush ears, but they also have a predisposition to several eye conditions like cherry eye, glaucoma, and dry eye. Their long hair can easily irritate the eyes if not properly managed.

Eye Care Tips:

• Routine eye examinations by a vet.

• Keep eye area dry and clean daily.

• Use lubricating eye drops if prescribed.

Pug

Pugs, with their endearing expressions and large round eyes, are susceptible to corneal ulcers, dry eye, and discharge. Their eyes are so prominent that they are at greater risk for injury and debris accumulation.

Eye Care Tips:

• Daily cleaning around the eyes and facial folds.

• Avoid dusty environments and harsh wind exposure.

• Immediate veterinary attention for any eye trauma.

Lhasa Apso

Like the Shih Tzu, the Lhasa Apso sports a long coat and flat face, both of which contribute to eye issues. Tear staining and infections can be common if their eyes are not regularly maintained.

Eye Care Tips:

• Trim the hair around the eyes frequently.

• Clean with a damp cloth or pet-safe eye wipes.

• Inspect for signs of redness or irritation.

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkies are known for their silky coats, which can fall into their eyes and cause irritation. While they are not as prone to tear staining as white-coated breeds, their grooming needs are still significant.

Eye Care Tips:

• Keep topknots or hair bands to pull hair away from the eyes.

• Clean discharge daily to avoid buildup.

• Schedule consistent grooming to manage coat length.

Pomeranian

Pomeranians have thick, fluffy coats and expressive faces. Though their eyes are not as protruding as brachycephalic breeds, they still experience tear staining and discharge due to their size and eye structure.

Eye Care Tips:

• Wipe the eyes every day to prevent crust formation.

• Use vet-recommended tear stain solutions.

• Watch for watery eyes or changes in tear color.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

This affectionate breed is vulnerable to several eye conditions such as cataracts, dry eye, and retinal issues. Their large, round eyes can gather discharge easily, requiring consistent cleaning.

Eye Care Tips:

• Use a soft cloth daily to wipe away buildup.

• Be vigilant for early signs of genetic eye conditions.

• Regular veterinary screening is essential.

Japanese Chin

With a flat face and bulging eyes, the Japanese Chin is another breed that requires careful eye maintenance. Their eyes can dry out or get injured easily due to how exposed they are.

Eye Care Tips:

• Apply vet-recommended moisturizing drops if needed.

• Clean the eyes gently every day.

• Avoid rough play or situations where eye injuries could occur.

Eye Cleaning Tools and Best Practices

To ensure your dog’s eyes remain healthy and clear, using the right tools and techniques is essential:

• Eye Wipes: Pre-moistened, hypoallergenic wipes made specifically for pets.

• Sterile Saline Solution: Ideal for flushing out debris or soothing irritated eyes.

• Soft Cloths or Cotton Pads: Used for gentle wiping, especially around sensitive areas.

• Rounded-tip Scissors or Grooming Clippers: For trimming hair around the eyes, reducing the chance of fur poking or irritating the eye.

When to See a Vet

Regular cleaning helps, but there are times when professional care is needed. Consult your vet if:

• Your dog’s eyes are red, swollen, or emit a foul odor.

• There’s a sudden increase in discharge or change in color.

• Your dog is squinting, pawing at their eyes, or showing signs of discomfort.

• Vision appears impaired.

Final Thoughts

Proper eye care is crucial for many popular dog breeds, particularly those with distinctive facial features or long coats. Integrating a regular eye-cleaning routine into your pet care schedule can significantly improve your dog’s comfort and reduce the risk of chronic problems. Choosing breeds that fit your grooming commitment level is key, and for those that require regular eye care, diligence and the right products go a long way toward maintaining their health and appearance.