As a dog owner, you’ll likely encounter a few health quirks that can be surprising or worrying. One condition that often catches pet parents off guard is cherry eye — a unique, visible eye issue in dogs that may look alarming but can be managed effectively with proper care and treatment.
In this blog, we’ll explore what cherry eye is, how to spot it early, why it happens, and what you can do to help your dog stay comfortable and healthy.
What Is Cherry Eye?
Cherry eye refers to the swelling or prolapse of the nictitating membrane gland, commonly known as the third eyelid gland. This gland normally sits in the inner corner of your dog’s eye and helps produce part of the tear film — essential for keeping the eye lubricated and protected.
When this gland slips out of position, it becomes visible as a red, grape-like mass — hence the name cherry eye. Although it may look painful, the gland itself isn’t typically painful at first, but it does require veterinary attention.
Spotting the Signs: How Cherry Eye Appears
Here are the most common signs of cherry eye in dogs:
- Red or pink swelling in the corner of the eye
- A small, roundish mass protruding from the eye
- Eye irritation or tearing
- Occasional discharge (clear or thick)
- Rubbing the eye due to discomfort
The appearance can vary from mild to more noticeable, depending on how far the gland has prolapsed.
Which Dogs Are Most at Risk?
Cherry eye is more common in certain dog breeds, especially those with shorter noses or flatter faces. These include:
- Bulldogs (English and French)
- Beagles
- Cocker Spaniels
- Bloodhounds
- Shih Tzus
- Lhasa Apsos
Younger dogs, particularly those under 2 years old, are also more likely to develop cherry eye.
Why Does Cherry Eye Happen?
The exact reason isn’t always clear, but there are a few factors involved:
1. Weak Connective Tissue
Certain dogs have looser supportive tissues around the gland, making it easier for it to shift out of place.
2. Genetic Predisposition
Some breeds are genetically more susceptible — meaning cherry eye can run in families.
3. Trauma or Irritation
In rare cases, injury or rubbing the eye can cause or worsen the condition.
Although it may look dramatic, cherry eye isn’t typically an emergency — but it does need proper care to prevent complications.
What Happens If It’s Left Untreated?
Ignoring cherry eye can lead to:
- Chronic irritation and discomfort
- Dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca)
- Frequent infections
- Corneal ulcers or scarring
Because the gland contributes to tear production, removing it entirely used to be common. Still, vets now avoid this unless necessary, as it can increase the risk of dry eye later in life.
Treatment Options: What to Expect
1. Medical Management
When caught early or if there’s irritation, a vet may recommend:
- Lubricating eye drops
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Protective eye care
2. Surgical Repair (Most Common)
The best long-term solution is a surgical procedure to reposition and secure the gland. There are two main approaches:
- Pocket technique: The gland is placed back into a protective tissue pocket
- Anchoring technique: The gland is stitched to strong tissue to hold it in place
Both approaches aim to preserve the gland and its function.
Supporting Recovery at Home
After surgery, you can help support healing with:
✔ A clean, calm environment
✔ Preventing scratching or rubbing (use an Elizabethan collar)
✔ Administering eye drops exactly as prescribed
✔ Watching for discharge, redness, or swelling
Follow-up vet visits are key to ensuring the eye heals well and the gland stays in place.
Final Thoughts
Cherry eye may look dramatic, but with timely veterinary care and patience, most dogs recover well and go on to live happy lives.
As a pet parent, watching for early signs — like redness or swelling — ensures you can act quickly and prevent long-term issues. Always consult your veterinarian if you notice any eye changes in your dog.
