Eye discharge, otherwise known as runny eyes, is one of the most common problems in dogs. Fortunately, this condition is easily identifiable as the dogs will tend to rub their faces on the ground or even wink their eyes shut from time to time. A watery eye discharge or mucus could be a sign of a foreign body. Alternatively, it could signify a serious eye infection. Dog owners should take their pets to the veterinarian, of course, but most do not know about dog runny eyes home remedy options. Some of the products may then cause significant, if not permanent, damage to the eyes or interact with the other medications, so it would be important to know how to handle the problem.
Article Summary
Causes of Runny Eyes in Dogs
Red and itchy eyes may be from dog conjunctivitis, a bacterial or viral infection of a dog’s eye. It may also result in foreign material eye irritation. It presents with yellow-greenish pus or eye discharge which is an inflammation of the lining of the eye. It may also be caused by epiphora, which translates to watery eye disorder in dogs. It can be from abnormal eyelashes or tumors as well as inflammations. Dry eye is also a cause of increased tears. Dry eye presents in inflammation and mucus around the eyes from injury or an attack from your dog’s immune system. Corneal ulcers, which are superficial sores around the eye area, can be caused by trauma to the eyes. These corneal ulcers [1] lead to sensitivity to light, squinting, and watery eyes.
Treating Watery Dog’s Eye at Home
Though all eye infections need immediate care, meaning taking the dog to the veterinarian, you can also provide support at home. It alleviates the condition and makes the dog as comfortable as possible.
Natural saline eye drops
These are the most common options for dog eye treatments as they flush allergens from the eyes. You are free to use as much saline solution as possible until the fluid runs from the eyes. If the situation does not improve for the dog after 48 hours or if it becomes worse, it’s time to go to the vet. A saline rinse [2] is appropriate if the discharge is minimal with some redness. Please do not use human eye drops as your pup may have a negative reaction.
Cold compress
Cold compresses are a superficial but sometimes effective solution for inflammation around the eyes. A cold and wet washcloth for dogs with red or itchy eyes would be comfortable, especially if you are removing a foreign body. Alternatively, you can use ice packs for inflammations. The compress should be applied for several minutes at a time to reduce any swelling. It is not a treatment for any condition, but your dog will definitely feel better while you work on the solution.
Benadryl
Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that is available over the counter. It is also effective in allergen treatment within dogs as well as people. This medication works by reducing the effects of natural histamines, but they work a bit slowly, so you may wait up to weeks before seeing the results. It would be advisable, though, to check with the vet to make certain the brand of Benadryl is safe for the dog.
E-collar
Putting an e-collar is more of a preventive approach for the condition than a treatment. Dogs with watery eyes are probably itchy, so there would be a compulsion to keep rubbing their faces on things or with their paws. That would cause the eye to become further inflamed and worsen the situation. An e-collar would prevent it from happening while treatment is offered. The basic rule with e-collars is they should reach two inches past the nose of the dog when put around its neck.
Preventing Eye Infections
For one, you need to keep observing the dog’s eyes. The pupils need to be the same size, and the eyes need to be free of crusting. Your dog’s eyes should have a little moisture, but watch out for things like squinting and the inner eyelid. If you see tear-stained fur or pupils that are not the same size, it could mean something is wrong. Try to brush the hair out of its eyes regularly as well learn how wash a dog’s face properly. Irritants such as soaps and flea medicine should be kept away from your dog’s eyes because these are the chemicals that result in inflammation.
FAQs
How do I get rid of my dog’s runny eyes?
There are different home remedies you can utilize. Pet owners can use a damp cloth with warm water or an eye cleaning solution that is specifically made for dogs. It is also advisable to keep the fur around the dog eye trimmed short. You can also use home remedies such as saline eye drops and e-collars.
Why does my dog have watery eyes?
There are several causes of dog eye discharge like conjunctivitis, which is a viral or bacterial infection. It could also be from corneal ulcers, pink eye, or other inflammations from foreign bodies. These may lead to excessive eye discharge.
How do you tell your pet has a dog eye infection or allergic reaction?
Your dog’s infected eye will have swelling, a smelly eye discharge, or redness in the eye. They may also have sensitivity to light, cloudy eyes, or different-sized pupils. Behaviorally, dogs will try to close their eyes or rub their face on the ground to ease their discomfort.
