Why does my dog's eye discharge smell bad?
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Overview
Bad-smelling eye discharge in dogs usually means there’s something more going on than a little normal tear build-up. It can happen with irritation, infection, a blocked tear duct, or discharge that’s sat around long enough to start smelling unpleasant.
You can often check a few simple things at home first, but a smell change is worth taking seriously if it’s new, strong, or comes with redness, swelling, squinting or your dog rubbing at the eye.
Things To Check
1. See whether the smell is coming from one eye or both, as that can help you notice if the problem is localised or more general.
2. Look closely for redness, swelling, cloudiness, or your dog keeping the eye partly closed.
3. Check the colour and texture of the discharge. Clear, watery discharge is different from thick, yellow, green or brown discharge.
4. Notice whether your dog is rubbing the face, pawing at the eye, or blinking more than usual.
5. Check for anything obvious near the eye, such as dust, grass seeds, dirt, or matted fur around the eyelids.
6. See if the smell gets worse after sleep, exercise, grooming, or time outdoors.
7. Check whether there’s also a smell from the ear, skin, or mouth, since sometimes owners first notice an odour in the face area.
Common Causes
The most common reason is discharge that’s been sitting around the eye and collecting bacteria or debris, which can make it smell unpleasant.
Eye irritation from dust, pollen, grooming products or a small foreign body can also lead to extra tearing and discharge.
Infections of the eye or eyelids can cause smelly, thicker discharge, especially if the area looks red or sore.
Some dogs develop tear drainage problems or ongoing eye shape and lash issues that mean discharge builds up more easily.
Less commonly, a wound, corneal scratch or another more painful eye problem may be involved, especially if your dog is squinting or keeping the eye closed.
What To Do
Gently wipe away fresh discharge with clean cotton wool or soft gauze dampened with cooled boiled water or a vet-recommended eye wipe.
Keep the area around the eye dry and free from matted fur, but don’t trim too close if your dog won’t stay still.
Try to stop rubbing or scratching, and keep an eye on whether the discharge is getting thicker, smellier or more frequent.
If the issue is mild and your dog seems comfortable, monitor it closely for a short period. If it keeps coming back, gets worse, or your dog seems sore, book a vet check.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet promptly if the discharge is thick, coloured, foul-smelling or keeps returning, or if your dog has redness, swelling, squinting, cloudiness, pain, or seems bothered by light. Eye problems can change quickly, so it’s best not to wait if the eye looks sore.
Products That May Help
If your dog’s eyes are prone to a bit of daily gunk or you’re keeping on top of gentle grooming, this collection may help support a simple cleaning routine at home.
Related Questions
Is smelly eye discharge in dogs always an infection?
Can I clean my dog’s eye discharge at home?
Why does my dog keep getting discharge in one eye?
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.