
Caring for Your Dog's Eyes
Always look out for eye problems, especially in older dogs
A healthy dog’s eyes should be clear, bright and free from dirt, discharge and inflammation (redness). The whites of the eye should be white, not red or yellow.
Common signs that your dog may have an eye problem include:
- Red inner eyelids
- Matter stuck on the surface or in the corners of the eye
- Cloudiness within the eyeball
- A dull eye surface
- The third eyelid coming across the eye which looks like a pink curtain or fold of membrane
- Excessive tearing or unusual discharges
- Tear-stained fur around the eyes
Eye tests used to diagnose eye problems in dogs include:
- Fluorescein stain test to identify the presence of corneal ulcers or defects in the surface of the eye
- Schirmer Tear Test to measure the level of tear production
- Eye pressure measurement to detect glaucoma
- Ophthalmoscopy to look at the internal structures of the eye
More about glaucoma and your dog
Yes, dogs can get conjunctivitis. Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the membrane that covers the inner lining of the eyelids. This inflammation may extend to involve the white of the eye as well. Conjunctivitis may be caused by allergies or by bacterial, fungal or viral infections.
Health Plans to keep your dog healthy
At Vets4Pets we offer a range of Health Plans that make essential routine treatments more affordable. You'll save money on things like annual vaccinations, flea and worm treatment and routine health check-ups.

Dog Advice
Read more of our expert dog advice to keep your dog happy and healthy.