Keeping an Eye on Your Dog’s Eye Health

Your dog’s eyes are not only the “windows to their soul,” they’re also an important part of their overall health. Eye problems in dogs are common and can range from minor irritations to serious conditions that threaten vision. The good news is that most issues can be successfully treated, especially if caught early.

Canine Eye Anatomy 101

Understanding the basic structure of your dog’s eye can make it easier to recognize when something isn’t right. While dogs’ eyes work much like ours, there are a few key differences that help them see better in dim light and detect motion.

• Cornea: The clear, curved surface at the front of the eye that lets light in. It’s very sensitive and easily scratched.

• Iris and Pupil: The colored part (iris) controls how much light enters through the dark central opening (pupil).

• Lens: Sits behind the iris and focuses light onto the back of the eye. This is where cataracts can form.

• Retina: The light-sensitive layer lining the back of the eye that sends signals to the brain, allowing your dog to see.

• Tapetum lucidum: A reflective layer behind the retina that gives dogs their “eye shine” in the dark and improves night vision.

• Third eyelid (nictitating membrane): A protective inner eyelid that sweeps across the eye to remove debris and spread tears. Problems here can cause “cherry eye.”

• Tear glands and drainage system: Produce and distribute tears that nourish and protect the cornea. Blockages or reduced tear production can lead to “dry eye.”

Knowing these parts helps you recognize changes when something goes wrong and understand why your veterinarian performs specific tests.

How to Recognize Eye Pain in Dogs

Dogs don’t always show pain in obvious ways, but painful eyes should not be overlooked. Look for:

• Squinting or blinking one eye

• Light sensitivity (avoiding bright rooms or squinting outside)

• Unequal eye size (one eye appearing larger or smaller than the other)

• Behavior changes such as irritability, restlessness, or hiding