Understanding Why Are My Dogs Eyes Watery: Causes and Solutions

If you’ve noticed that your dog’s eyes seem unusually watery or produce discharge, you may wonder what’s causing this issue. Watery eyes in dogs are a common concern for pet owners and can occur for various reasons. In this blog, we’ll explore the potential causes of watery eyes in dogs, discuss the signs of possible eye infections, and provide advice on addressing the issue and seeking appropriate treatment.

Understanding Watery Eyes in Dogs

Watery eyes in dogs, also known as excessive tearing, are typically signs that something is wrong with their eye health. Tears are important, as they help keep the eye lubricated, flush out foreign bodies, and protect the eye’s surface from infection. However, when tears are produced in excess, it can lead to various issues.

Causes of Watery Eyes in Dogs

There are several potential causes of watery eyes in dogs. While some causes are relatively harmless, others may require veterinary attention. Here are some common reasons why your dog’s eyes may be watery:

1. Eye Infections

An eye infection is one of dogs’ most common causes of watery eyes. Bacterial or viral infections can cause the eye to become inflamed, leading to excessive tear production. These infections may also result in eye discharge, which could be yellow or green, indicating the presence of pus. If your dog has a persistent eye infection, it’s important to seek veterinary care to prevent further complications.

2. Corneal Ulcers

Corneal ulcers are open sores on the cornea’s surface, which can lead to watery eyes in dogs. These ulcers are often caused by trauma, such as an eye injury or a foreign object scratching the eye. Symptoms of corneal ulcers may include excessive tearing, eye redness, and squinting. Corneal ulcers can be painful and should be treated promptly to avoid further damage to your dog’s eye.

3. Blocked Tear Ducts

If your dog has blocked tear ducts, the tears cannot drain properly from the eyes, leading to excessive watering. This condition can cause tears to overflow from the eyes and may be accompanied by a sticky discharge. Blocked tear ducts can occur due to congenital defects, injuries, or inflammation. A veterinary examination and appropriate treatment may be necessary, such as a surgical procedure to unblock the ducts.

4. Foreign Bodies in the Eye

Another common cause of watery eyes in dogs is the presence of foreign bodies in the eye, such as dust, dirt, or grass. When something irritates the eye, the body produces tears to flush out the foreign object. If you notice that your dog is excessively pawing at its eyes or squinting, it may have something stuck in its eye. In these cases, it’s important to check the eye for any visible foreign objects and remove them carefully. If the foreign body is not easily visible or accessible, seeking veterinary assistance is recommended.

5. Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca)

While it may seem counterintuitive, some dogs with dry eyes may also experience watery eyes. Dry eye occurs when there is insufficient tear production to lubricate the eye’s surface. As a result, the eyes may become irritated and produce excessive tears as a compensatory response. Dry eye symptoms include watery eyes, thick discharge, and redness. Treatment for dry eye typically involves using prescription eye drops to stimulate tear production.

6. Allergies

Like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies, and one of the common symptoms is watery eyes. Allergic conjunctivitis, which is inflammation of the eye’s outer membrane caused by allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander, can lead to watery eyes. Other symptoms of allergies in dogs may include itching, sneezing, and runny noses. Suppose you suspect that allergies are causing your dog’s watery eyes. In that case, it may help reduce exposure to allergens. Consult your vet for appropriate treatment options, including antihistamines or prescription eye drops.

7. Breed-Specific Issues

Certain dog breeds are more prone to eye issues, including excessive tearing. Breeds with prominent eyes, such as Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Bulldogs, often experience watery eyes due to their anatomical structure. These dogs may have shallow eye sockets, which makes their tear ducts less effective at draining tears, leading to excessive tearing. While this may not necessarily cause concern, monitoring the situation and ensuring no underlying medical issue is still important.

8. Age-Related Changes

As dogs age, they may develop certain eye issues, including watering eyes. This could be due to weakening tear ducts, age-related changes in the structure of the eye, or other age-related conditions. Older dogs may also develop cataracts or other issues that affect their vision and cause them to tear more frequently. Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify and address age-related eye problems.

Signs of a Problematic Eye Condition

In some cases, watery eyes may indicate an underlying condition that needs immediate veterinary attention. Here are some signs that indicate your dog may have a more serious eye issue:

Green or Yellow Discharge: This could indicate a bacterial infection or an abscess.
Persistent or Severe Pain: If your dog is squinting, pawing at its eyes, or showing signs of significant discomfort, it could have an eye injury or infection.
Eye Redness: Redness in or around the eye could be a sign of irritation, an infection, or a foreign body in the eye.
Swollen or Puffy Eyes: Swelling around the eyes may indicate an allergic reaction or an infection.
Cloudy or Bluish Cornea: A cloudy appearance in the eye may signal a corneal ulcer or other serious issues.
Frequent Squinting: This can be a sign that your dog’s eyes are painful, possibly due to an injury or infection.
Loss of Vision: If your dog is having difficulty seeing or appears disoriented, it may be experiencing a vision-related issue such as cataracts or retinal disease.

If these symptoms are present, you must immediately take your dog to the vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment for Watery Eyes in Dogs

The treatment for watery eyes in dogs depends on the underlying cause. Here are some of the most common treatments used to address the issue:

1. Antibiotic or Antiviral Medication

If your dog has an eye infection, the vet may prescribe antibiotics or antiviral medications to treat the infection. Eye drops or ointments may target the infection and reduce inflammation.

2. Artificial Tears or Lubricating Eye Drops

In cases of dry eye or mild irritation, your vet may recommend artificial tears or lubricating eye drops to help soothe the eyes and reduce tearing. These products are designed to keep the eye moist and promote healing.

3. Surgical Procedures

In cases of blocked tear ducts or corneal ulcers, surgical intervention may be necessary. Your vet may recommend a procedure to unblock the tear ducts, remove foreign bodies, or repair corneal damage.

4. Allergy Medication

If allergies cause your dog’s watery eyes, your vet may prescribe antihistamines or other medications to alleviate the symptoms and reduce eye inflammation.

5. Warm Compresses

For minor irritation, applying a warm compress to your dog’s eyes may help soothe inflammation and encourage tear drainage. A clean, soft cloth soaked in warm water can be gently pressed to the eye for several minutes.

Preventing Watery Eyes in Dogs

While some causes of watery eyes are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to help prevent eye issues in your dog:

Regular Eye Cleaning: Gently wipe your dog’s eyes with a damp cloth to remove debris or discharge.
Routine Vet Check-Ups: Regular vet visits will help catch potential issues early, preventing more serious complications.
Allergy Management: If your dog suffers from allergies, reducing exposure to allergens can help manage symptoms. Keeping the house clean and avoiding areas with pollen or dust mites may help.
Proper Grooming: Regular grooming helps prevent hair from irritating the eyes and causing excessive tearing.

Conclusion

Watery eyes in dogs can be caused by various factors, ranging from minor irritations to more serious conditions like infections or eye injuries. While some dogs may have naturally watery eyes due to their breed, others may experience excessive tearing due to health issues like blocked tear ducts, allergies, or eye infections. If your dog’s eyes are watery, it’s essential to monitor for other signs of illness and seek veterinary care if needed. You can help ensure your dog’s eye health and overall well-being by maintaining proper eye care and seeking prompt treatment.