What should I do if my dog's eyes are watery? - briefly
If your dog's eyes are watery, it could be due to allergies or irritants in the environment. Clean the eye area with warm water and consult your veterinarian for further advice.
What should I do if my dog's eyes are watery? - in detail
If your dog's eyes are watery, it could be due to various reasons ranging from minor irritants to more serious issues. Here’s what you should do:
-
Observe and Document: Carefully observe the severity and frequency of the tearing. Note any accompanying symptoms such as redness, swelling, discharge, or changes in behavior. This information can be valuable when discussing the issue with a veterinarian.
-
Check for Foreign Bodies: Inspect your dog’s eyes for any visible foreign objects like grass seeds, dust, or hair. If you see something, gently rinse the eye with saline solution or clean water, but avoid using chemicals or soap. Never attempt to remove an embedded object without professional help.
-
Evaluate Environmental Factors: Excessive tearing can sometimes be triggered by environmental irritants such as smoke, perfumes, or allergens. Try to identify and eliminate any potential triggers in your dog’s environment.
-
Monitor for Allergies: Allergic reactions are common causes of watery eyes in dogs. If the tearing is accompanied by itching, sneezing, or other allergy symptoms, consult your veterinarian. They might recommend antihistamines or other treatments to manage allergies.
-
Consider Breed Predisposition: Certain breeds with flat faces (brachycephalic) like Pugs and Bulldogs are prone to eye issues due to their facial structure. Regularly clean the area around their eyes to prevent infections.
-
Check for Infections or Diseases: Watery eyes can also be a sign of more serious conditions such as conjunctivitis, glaucoma, or corneal ulcers. If the tearing is persistent or worsening, accompanied by pain, or if your dog is pawing at its eyes, seek veterinary care immediately.
-
Professional Assessment: It’s crucial to have a vet assess the situation. They can perform a thorough examination and may recommend diagnostic tests such as blood work or eye swabs to identify the underlying cause.
-
Follow Veterinarian Advice: Your veterinarian will provide guidance on appropriate treatments, which could range from topical ointments and drops to oral medications depending on the diagnosis. Always follow their instructions for administering any prescribed medication.
-
Regular Check-ups: Even if the tearing resolves, schedule regular check-ups with your vet to monitor your dog’s eye health and ensure no underlying conditions are developing.
By being vigilant and prompt in addressing watery eyes, you can help prevent minor issues from becoming major problems for your dog's ocular health.