If your dog has red, watery, or irritated eyes, they may have an eye infection. Dog eye infections are pretty common, especially in pups whose eyes may be more exposed to dust, pollen, and outdoor elements. While some cases are minor, untreated eye infections can lead to serious problems, so it’s important to know what to look for and how to treat eye infections safely.
Common Causes of Eye Infection in Dogs
Eye infections in dogs can come from many different sources. Some are related to the environment, while others stem from health conditions or even injuries.
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Just like people, dogs can develop allergies to things like pollen, dust mites, or mold. These allergens irritate the mucous membrane of the eye, leading to redness, swelling, and watery discharge. Unlike bacterial infections, this type of irritation is not an infection—it’s an allergic reaction. For this type of eye infection, your vet may recommend artificial tears or anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce irritation and stimulate tear production.
Canine Eye Infections
In dogs, eye infections commonly occur due to bacterial and viral infections, both of which can affect one or both eyes. Bacterial infections often cause thick yellow or green discharge with noticeable swelling and discomfort, while viral infections such as canine herpesvirus may look more like watery “pink eye” and are sometimes accompanied by nasal discharge or general skin irritation around the face.
If left untreated, these infections can spread or become chronic, leading to more serious eye problems. A veterinarian may prescribe topical and oral medications, including eye drops or ointments, to treat eye infections and relieve pain. In more severe cases, anti-inflammatory drugs may also be used to reduce swelling and protect the delicate tissues of your dog’s eyes.
Injury or Scratching
A scratch from rough play, running through tall grass, or rubbing the eye too hard can damage the surface of your dog’s eye. Even a small injury can lead to bacterial infections if not treated quickly. Dogs with eyelash abnormalities may also scratch their corneas repeatedly, increasing the risk of infection.
Blocked Tear Ducts
Healthy tear ducts help flush irritants away and keep your dog’s eyes lubricated. When they become blocked, tear production is disrupted, leaving your dog vulnerable to eye irritation, dryness, and infection. In this case, your vet may use a Schirmer tear test to measure tear production and recommend artificial tears or flushing the ducts.
Foreign Bodies
Sometimes the cause of a dog eye infection is as simple as a speck of dirt, grass seed, or hair stuck in the eye. These irritants can lead to redness, pawing at the face, and excessive tearing. If not removed, they may cause an infection.
While you can sometimes flush out minor debris at home with sterile saline or artificial tears, you should never try to dig around in your dog’s eye. If you suspect something is lodged deeper or symptoms don’t improve right away, it’s best to seek veterinary care. Your vet can safely remove the object, check for scratches, and recommend eye drops or anti-inflammatory drugs to prevent further complications.
Canine Conjunctivitis Symptoms
Dog conjunctivitis, also called “pink eye,” is one of the most noticeable eye conditions.
Watch for:
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Redness or swelling near your dog's eyelids
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Watery eyes or thick discharge (clear, yellow, or green)
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Pawing or rubbing at the eye
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Excessive blinking
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Light sensitivity
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Squinting or keeping the eye closed
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Nasal discharge or skin irritation around the face
If your pup is showing multiple symptoms, it’s best to get a diagnosis so you know whether you’re dealing with allergies, bacterial infections, or viral infections.
At-Home Dog Eye Infection Treatment
If you’ve noticed redness, discharge, or eye irritation in your pup, there are a few things you can do at home to provide comfort until you can get veterinary care. These steps won’t replace professional treatment for bacterial and viral infections, but they can go a long way in easing discomfort and preventing the problem from getting worse.
Keep The Eye Clean
Gently wipe away any discharge from your dog’s eyes using a soft, damp cloth or sterile saline solution. Always use a fresh cloth for each wipe so you don’t spread bacteria from one eye to the other. Avoid cotton balls, as the fibers can irritate the mucous membrane. Keeping the eye area clean also makes it easier to monitor changes in discharge, which can help your vet figure out if you’re dealing with bacterial infections, viral infections, or just environmental irritation.
A clean, comfortable resting spot can make a big difference when your pup is dealing with an eye infection. Orthopedic dog beds with washable covers not only support your dog’s joints but also help maintain a hygienic environment by reducing exposure to dust mites, dander, and bacteria. Regularly washing the cover keeps your dog’s eyes from being irritated by allergens or debris that can build up in their bedding.
Artificial Tears
Lubricating eye drops designed for pets can help soothe irritation, wash out small particles, and stimulate tear production. They’re especially helpful if your dog has blocked tear ducts or dry eye. Never use human eye drops unless directed by a vet—some contain ingredients that can actually worsen irritation.
Limit Irritants
Just like with people, a dog’s eyes are sensitive to environmental triggers. Keep your pup away from smoke, strong cleaning products, and dusty rooms. If allergies are suspected, reducing exposure to pollen, dust mites, and mold can help minimize flare-ups and reduce secondary eye infections.
Use a Cone, If Needed
When they’re in pain, dogs often paw or rub at their eyes, which can make the infection worse or even cause new injuries. A cone or soft recovery collar can prevent scratching while the eye heals. It might not be your dog’s favorite accessory, but it’s a short-term solution that can protect their vision in the long run.
Support Your Dog’s Immune System
A balanced diet, clean environment, and plenty of rest all help your pup’s body fight off infections. Keeping their bedding (especially their dog bed cover) clean can reduce dust and bacteria exposure that might aggravate their eyes.
Monitor Closely
Watch for changes in discharge color, swelling, or light sensitivity. If symptoms worsen or don’t improve within 24–48 hours, veterinary care is essential. Left untreated, even minor eye infections in dogs can lead to more serious complications.
Note: These home care steps can provide relief, but they won’t cure bacterial infections or viral infections. In most cases, your vet will prescribe eye drops, oral medications, or anti-inflammatory drugs to properly treat eye infections and address the underlying cause.
When to See a Vet
Not all eye issues can be treated at home. If your dog shows these signs, it’s time to call your vet to schedule an eye exam:
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Persistent redness or swelling
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Thick yellow or green discharge
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Cloudiness in the eye
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Constant squinting or light sensitivity
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Signs of pain (when they’re in pain, dogs often paw at their eyes or avoid touch)
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Symptoms lasting more than 24–48 hours without improvement
Your vet may recommend eye drops, oral medications, or anti-inflammatory drugs depending on the underlying cause. They might also run tests, like a Schirmer tear test, to check tear production and rule out chronic issues.
Ways to Support Your Dog's Eye Health
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Regular grooming: Trim long hair around the eyes to prevent irritation.
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Protective environment: Keep your home and dog bed free of dust mites and allergens.
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Healthy diet: Nutrient-rich food supports your dog’s immune system, helping them fight off bacterial and viral infections.
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Routine checkups: Veterinary care ensures early detection of eyelash abnormalities, blocked tear ducts, and other underlying causes.
Will a Dog's Eye Infection Heal on Its Own?
Most of the time, no. While minor irritations may clear up, bacterial infections, viral infections, and blocked tear ducts don’t usually resolve without effective treatment from a veterinarian. Leaving an eye infection untreated can lead to scarring, extreme pain, chronic eye irritation, or even vision loss.
