Why are my Yorkshire Terrier's eyes watering? - briefly
Your Yorkshire Terrier's eyes may be watering due to irritation from allergies, dust, or foreign objects. Additionally, tear duct issues can cause excessive tearing in this breed. If the condition persists, consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Why are my Yorkshire Terrier's eyes watering? - in detail
Yorkshire Terriers, like many small breed dogs, are prone to eye issues due to their facial structure and genetics. If your Yorkshire Terrier's eyes are watering, it could be indicative of several conditions.
One common cause is conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the membrane lining the eyelids. This can result from allergies, irritants, or infections. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and a discharge that may be clear, yellow, or green. If left untreated, it can lead to more serious issues like corneal ulcers.
Another possible cause is a blocked tear duct. Tear ducts are small openings at the inner corner of each eye, responsible for draining tears into the nose. In Yorkies, these ducts can become obstructed due to their unique facial structure or an underlying health condition. When this happens, tears cannot drain properly and overflow onto the face, causing watery eyes.
Dry eye syndrome, also known as Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS), is another potential issue. This occurs when the tear glands do not produce enough tears to keep the eye moist. Paradoxically, dry eye can cause excessive tearing as the body attempts to compensate for the lack of natural tears.
Eye injuries and foreign bodies are also common in active dogs like Yorkies. If something gets stuck in your dog's eye or if they experience a scratch or other trauma, it can lead to watery eyes as well as redness, squinting, and pawing at the eye.
If your Yorkshire Terrier is experiencing persistent eye watering, it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian. They can perform a thorough examination, including tests like the Schirmer Tear Test for dry eye or a fluorescein stain test for corneal abrasions. Based on the diagnosis, appropriate treatment can be administered, which may include eye drops, antibiotics, or in some cases, surgery to unblock tear ducts.
Regular eye care and prompt attention to any changes in your dog's eyes are essential for maintaining their ocular health. Always remember that prevention is the best medicine, so keep an eye on potential irritants and maintain a clean environment to minimize the risk of eye problems.