What should I check if my dog has eye discharge? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your dog has eye discharge, the first things to check are what it looks like, whether one or both eyes are affected, and whether there are any other signs such as redness, squinting or swelling. A small amount of clear discharge can sometimes happen with irritation or sleep, but thicker, coloured or persistent discharge may point to a problem that needs attention.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the discharge is clear, white, yellow or green, and whether it is watery, sticky or crusty.
2. Look at whether one eye or both eyes are affected, as that can give a clue to whether it may be local irritation or something more general.
3. See if your dog is squinting, rubbing the eye, keeping it shut or seems bothered by light.
4. Check for redness, swelling, cloudiness, a visible scratch, or the eyelids sticking together.
5. Think about recent triggers such as windy walks, dust, grass seeds, shampoo, grooming, or playing in long grass.
6. Notice whether there is any sneezing, nasal discharge, coughing or general unwellness at the same time.
7. Check your dog's face and coat for signs of skin irritation, tear staining or matted hair around the eye.
8. Make a note of how long it has been going on and whether it is getting better, staying the same or worsening.
Common Causes
The most common causes are mild irritation, dust or debris in the eye, or normal tear overflow, especially in dogs with prominent eyes or flatter faces. Allergies can also cause watery eyes and discharge, often alongside itching or sneezing.
Less commonly, eye discharge can be linked to a blocked tear duct, an infection, a scratch on the eye surface, or an eyelid problem. If the eye looks painful, cloudy, very red or swollen, it deserves more careful attention.
What To Do
Gently wipe away discharge with clean cotton wool or soft gauze and cooled boiled water or sterile saline, using a fresh piece for each eye. Keep the area around the eye clean and dry, and avoid using human eye drops or any product not made for pets.
If your dog has been out in grass, dust or pollen, a calm rinse of the face with clean water may help remove irritants. Keep an eye on whether the discharge returns, changes colour or becomes thicker, and avoid letting your dog rub the eye if you can.
When To Contact A Vet
Get veterinary advice promptly if the discharge is yellow or green, the eye is red or swollen, your dog is squinting, rubbing at it, or the eye looks cloudy or painful. These signs can suggest a problem that needs proper treatment rather than simple cleaning.
You should also speak to a vet if the discharge is only in one eye and keeps coming back, if there is any sudden change after a walk or rough play, or if your dog seems unwell in themselves.
Products That May Help
If your dog is prone to a bit of gunk around the eyes, gentle grooming and day-to-day coat care can make it easier to keep the area clean and spot changes early.
Related Questions
Why does my dog keep getting eye discharge?
Is yellow eye discharge in dogs serious?
Can I clean my dog's eye discharge at home?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.