How to safely remove dog eye crust

Dog eye crust, also known as eye boogers or discharge, is common and usually harmless, but it’s important to remove it safely to avoid causing irritation or infection. Here’s how to do it the right way.

1. Understand the Type of Eye Discharge

Before removing anything from your dog’s eye area, determine the type of crust or discharge:

• Clear or slightly brownish: Typically caused by tears and not a concern.

• Yellow, green, or thick: Could signal an infection, allergy, or a more serious issue—consult your vet.

• Persistent buildup: If it keeps coming back, check for entropion, blocked tear ducts, or other underlying problems.

2. Wash Your Hands Thoroughly

Always wash your hands before and after handling your dog’s face to prevent introducing bacteria to their eyes or spreading any infection.

3. Gather the Right Supplies

You’ll need:

• Soft, clean cotton balls or gauze pads

• Dog-safe eye wipes (available at pet stores or online)

• Warm water (not hot)

• Optional: sterile saline solution (without preservatives or medications)

Avoid using:

• Tissues (they can shred and irritate the eye)

• Your fingernails (can scratch the skin or eye)

• Alcohol-based or medicated wipes not made for pets

4. Calm Your Dog

Make sure your dog is calm and secure. Use gentle praise, treats, or have a second person help hold your dog if necessary. Some dogs tolerate cleaning better when it’s part of a daily routine.

5. Moisten the Crust First

Soften the crust to avoid tugging:

• Dip a cotton ball or gauze pad in warm water or saline solution.

• Hold it gently against the crusty area for 10–20 seconds.

• This loosens dried discharge, making it easier to wipe away.

6. Wipe Gently Away from the Eye

Using the dampened cotton or pad:

• Wipe away from the corner of the eye, not toward it.

• Use a fresh cotton ball or pad for each eye to prevent cross-contamination.

• Be gentle—never rub hard or press near the eye socket.

7. Use Dog Eye Wipes for Convenience

Pet-safe eye wipes are pre-moistened and specially formulated for sensitive areas. These can be used daily to manage tear stains and mild crusts.

• Choose fragrance-free and alcohol-free wipes.

• Avoid anything with strong chemicals or unknown ingredients.

8. Prevent Future Buildup

While some eye discharge is normal, you can reduce it by:

• Keeping hair trimmed around your dog’s eyes.

• Regular grooming to remove allergens and debris.

• Using filtered water for drinking (can help reduce mineral-related staining).

• Keeping your dog’s face clean, especially after meals or walks.

9. When to See a Vet

If eye crust is:

• Green, yellow, or bloody

• Accompanied by redness, squinting, or swelling

• Persistent despite cleaning

• Smelly or appears infected

Then a vet visit is necessary. Conditions like conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers, or blocked tear ducts need professional treatment.

10. Safe Products to Use

Look for:

• Veterinary-approved saline rinses (like Nutri-Vet, Vet’s Best, or Miracle Care)

• Tear stain removers for dogs prone to heavy tearing (like Angels’ Eyes or TropiClean)

Avoid:

• Human eye drops unless prescribed

• Hydrogen peroxide or alcohol

• Products not labeled safe for dogs

11. Special Care for Certain Breeds

Flat-faced breeds (like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus) and those with prominent eyes are more prone to discharge and may need more frequent cleaning. Use extreme care, as their eyes are more vulnerable to scratches and infections.

Breeds with long facial hair (like Maltese or Cocker Spaniels) benefit from tear-stain management and more frequent wiping.

12. Make It a Routine

Daily or weekly eye cleaning can prevent buildup and help you catch any early signs of irritation or infection. Make it a calm and comfortable routine, and always reward your dog afterward.

Regular grooming, clean living spaces, and proper hydration also contribute to healthier eyes and less crust formation.

Final Thought

Eye crust in dogs is typically manageable with simple hygiene practices. Being consistent and gentle is key. Always observe changes in color, amount, or behavior during cleaning—your dog’s eyes can be a window into their health.