How to prevent crusty eyes in dogs

Crusty eyes in dogs, often referred to as “eye discharge” or “eye boogers,” are a common issue that pet owners face. While some level of eye discharge is normal for dogs, especially in the mornings, excessive or crusty eye buildup can indicate an underlying health issue. Preventing crusty eyes requires understanding the causes and taking proactive measures to care for your dog’s eye health. Here’s how you can prevent crusty eyes in dogs:

1. Regular Cleaning of the Eyes

To keep your dog’s eyes clean and free from crusty buildup, regular cleaning is essential. Use a soft, damp cloth or cotton ball to gently wipe away any discharge. Make sure to use a dog-safe eye wipe or saline solution to avoid irritating your pet’s eyes.

• How to clean: Soak the cotton ball or cloth with saline solution and gently wipe the area around your dog’s eyes. Avoid pressing too hard on the eye or using harsh chemicals, which could cause irritation.

• Frequency: Clean your dog’s eyes daily or as often as needed, especially if your dog has a tendency to accumulate eye crust.

2. Monitor Diet and Hydration

Proper hydration and a balanced diet can significantly impact your dog’s overall health, including their eye health. Dehydration can lead to dry eyes, which could result in crusty eyes. Ensure your dog has access to clean, fresh water at all times and feed them a nutritious diet suited for their age, size, and breed.

• Good food choices: Opt for high-quality dog food that contains vitamins and minerals essential for maintaining healthy eyes. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oils, are known to support eye health.

3. Address Allergies

Environmental allergies are a leading cause of eye discharge in dogs. If your dog is allergic to pollen, dust mites, mold, or other allergens, their eyes may become watery or crusty. Identifying and managing the allergens is crucial to preventing eye problems.

• Limit exposure: If you know your dog is allergic to specific substances, try to limit their exposure to these triggers. For example, during high pollen seasons, keep your dog indoors or wipe them down after outdoor walks.

• Medication: Consult your veterinarian about allergy medications or antihistamines that may help alleviate your dog’s symptoms.

4. Routine Veterinary Check-ups

Regular vet check-ups are vital to ensure your dog’s overall health, including their eye health. Eye discharge can sometimes be a symptom of more serious issues such as infections, conjunctivitis, or eye disease.

• Infections: Bacterial or viral infections can lead to excessive discharge and crustiness. If your dog’s eyes are red, swollen, or producing green or yellow discharge, take them to the vet for an evaluation and proper treatment.

• Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): This is another common eye condition in dogs that causes discharge. A vet will diagnose and recommend appropriate treatments, such as eye drops or ointments.

5. Keep the Hair Around the Eyes Trimmed

Long hair around your dog’s eyes can irritate them and contribute to the buildup of crusty eyes. Trimming the hair around their eyes can prevent this. Some dogs, especially breeds with long coats, may need more frequent grooming to prevent hair from touching their eyes.

• Grooming: Be cautious when trimming around the eyes, as this area is sensitive. If you’re unsure, take your dog to a professional groomer who can trim the area safely.

• Breed Considerations: Certain dog breeds, such as Poodles, Shih Tzus, and Bichon Frises, are more prone to eye discharge due to the shape of their eyes and the growth of hair around them.

6. Use of Eye Drops or Lubricants

If your dog suffers from dry eyes (a condition known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca or KCS), it can lead to crusty eyes and discomfort. In such cases, your vet may recommend the use of eye drops or artificial tears to keep your dog’s eyes lubricated and free from dryness.

• Prescribed drops: Always use vet-recommended eye drops or lubricants to avoid causing further irritation or injury.

• Hydration: Ensure your dog’s environment isn’t too dry, as this can exacerbate the condition. Using a humidifier in your home can help alleviate dryness in the air.

7. Maintain a Clean Environment

The environment your dog lives in plays a significant role in their eye health. Dust, dirt, and allergens in the home can contribute to eye discharge and irritation. Keeping your home clean and free from allergens is crucial.

• Regular cleaning: Vacuum frequently to reduce dust and allergens, and wash your dog’s bedding regularly.

• Air quality: Consider using air purifiers to reduce the number of airborne particles that could affect your dog’s eyes.

8. Prevent and Treat Eyelash Issues

Sometimes crusty eyes are caused by a condition where eyelashes grow inwards and irritate the cornea, causing discharge and discomfort. This condition is known as entropion, and it may require medical treatment.

• Signs to watch for: If you notice your dog squinting, pawing at their eyes, or having excessive discharge, this may be an indication of an eyelash or eyelid problem.

• Veterinary intervention: If your dog shows signs of entropion or other eyelid issues, consult your vet. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the condition.

9. Manage Tear Duct Issues

Tear duct issues, such as blocked tear ducts, can cause a buildup of eye discharge, leading to crusty eyes. This issue can be caused by genetic factors, infections, or other health problems.

• Vet assessment: If you notice persistent watery eyes or crustiness, consult your vet to check if the tear ducts are blocked. Treatment may include flushing the ducts or prescribing medication to resolve the issue.

10. Monitor for Foreign Objects

Sometimes, foreign objects like dust, sand, or hair can get into your dog’s eyes and cause irritation. This can lead to excessive watering and crusty eyes. Always inspect your dog’s eyes if you notice them squinting or pawing at their face, as they may have something stuck in their eye.

• Gentle cleaning: If a foreign object is visible and accessible, use a clean, damp cloth to gently wipe it away. If you can’t remove it safely, seek professional help from a vet.

• Protection: If you’re going outdoors with your dog, especially in areas with lots of dust or debris, consider using protective eyewear designed for dogs, particularly for breeds with exposed eyes.

Conclusion

Crusty eyes in dogs can be managed and prevented with proper care, hygiene, and regular veterinary visits. By understanding the underlying causes, maintaining good eye health practices, and seeking professional help when necessary, you can help your dog avoid discomfort and keep their eyes healthy. Always monitor for changes in eye health and take action early to prevent more serious issues.