It’s common for dogs to have a little moisture around their eyes from time to time, especially after a nap or when they’re outside in the wind. However, if your dog’s eyes are constantly watery, have visible discharge, or appear red and irritated, it could indicate an underlying health issue. Understanding the causes and treatments for weepy eyes in dogs can help you take the proper steps to keep your pet comfortable and healthy.
What Are Weepy Eyes in Dogs?
Weepy eyes, also known as epiphora, occur when a dog’s eyes produce excessive tears or when the tears fail to drain properly through the tear ducts. While mild tearing can be harmless, persistent weeping often points to an irritation, infection, or blockage in the tear ducts.
The discharge may vary — from clear, watery tears to thick, yellow, or green mucus — depending on the cause. Noticing the color and consistency of your dog’s eye discharge can provide valuable insights into their overall eye health.
Common Causes of Weepy Eyes in Dogs
There are many reasons why your dog may have watery or runny eyes. Some are minor and easily treatable, while others may need veterinary attention.
1. Allergies
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies caused by pollen, dust, mold, or certain foods. Allergic reactions can lead to watery eyes, sneezing, and itching. If you notice your dog rubbing its face or scratching its eyes, allergies might be the culprit.
2. Eye Irritation
Wind, shampoo, smoke, or foreign particles (like dust or grass seeds) can irritate your dog’s eyes. This irritation often triggers the production of tears as a protective response. Check for visible debris and avoid using human eye drops, as they may worsen the condition.
3. Blocked Tear Ducts
When tear ducts are blocked or narrowed, tears cannot drain properly through the nose. This leads to continuous tear overflow and dark, damp stains under the eyes. Your vet can flush or open the ducts if needed.
4. Infections
Eye infections caused by bacteria or viruses, such as conjunctivitis (often referred to as pink eye), can lead to watery eyes, redness, puffiness, and a yellow or green discharge. Infections may develop from allergies, injuries, or exposure to other infected animals.
5. Breed-Related Issues
Some dog breeds are naturally more prone to eye issues due to their distinctive facial features and anatomy. For example:
- Brachycephalic breeds (like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus) have shallow eye sockets that make their eyes protrude, increasing the risk of dryness and irritation.
- Breeds with long hair around the eyes (like Cocker Spaniels or Maltese) can have tear staining from constant contact with fur.
- Regular trimming and cleaning can help prevent these problems.
6. Ingrown Eyelashes or Entropion
In some dogs, eyelashes grow inward (a condition called entropion) and constantly rub against the eyeball, causing tears and discomfort. This can lead to corneal ulcers if untreated and may require surgical correction.
7. Eye Injuries
Scratches, insect bites, or trauma can cause inflammation and tearing. Any visible swelling, squinting, or sudden weeping after an injury needs immediate veterinary care.
8. Other Medical Conditions
Conditions like glaucoma, ulcers, or dry eye syndrome (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) can cause persistent tearing or discharge. These require professional diagnosis and long-term management.
Symptoms to Watch For
Weepy eyes can sometimes appear mild, but they shouldn’t be ignored. Look for the following signs:
- Excessive tearing or discharge
- Redness or swelling around the eyes
- Squinting or pawing at the eyes
- Crusty buildup around the eyelids
- Cloudiness or color change in the eyes
- Tear stains under the eyes (brown or reddish marks)
- Sensitivity to light
If these symptoms persist for more than a couple of days, it’s best to consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis.
Diagnosis and Veterinary Care
Your veterinarian will conduct a detailed eye checkup to determine what’s causing the excessive tearing. This may include:
- Fluorescein stain test to detect scratches or ulcers on the cornea
- Tear duct flushing to check for blockages
- Allergy testing if environmental triggers are suspected
- Bacterial culture in case of infection
Based on the findings, your vet will recommend appropriate treatment to relieve your dog’s discomfort.
Treatment Options for Weepy Eyes in Dogs
The right treatment varies based on the underlying cause and may involve the following options:
1. Cleaning and Hygiene
In mild situations, you can carefully wipe your dog’s eyes with a damp and clean cloth or wipes approved by your vet. Be sure to clean from the inner corner outward to avoid spreading any potential infection.
2. Medication
Your vet might recommend antibiotic or anti-inflammatory eye drops, ointments, or oral medicines to help reduce infection and soothe inflammation. Follow the prescribed dosage carefully and complete the full course.
3. Allergy Management
If allergies are the cause, your veterinarian might recommend antihistamines, hypoallergenic diets, or reducing exposure to allergens such as pollen or dust. Air purifiers and regular cleaning can also help.
4. Surgery
In severe cases, such as blocked tear ducts or entropion, minor surgical procedures may be required to correct the issue and prevent future irritation.
5. Home Care
Maintain regular grooming, especially for long-haired breeds, to keep them healthy and well-groomed. Trim the hair around your dog’s eyes and keep their face dry to prevent tear staining.
Preventing Weepy Eyes in Dogs
While not all causes can be prevented, these simple habits can reduce the risk:
- Keep your dog’s face clean and dry
- Trim fur around the eyes regularly
- Avoid exposing your dog to smoke, dust, or strong fragrances
- Use vet-approved shampoos and grooming products
- Feed a balanced diet to support immune health
- Schedule regular vet checkups
When to See a Vet
If your dog’s weepy eyes are accompanied by redness, swelling, colored discharge, or visible pain, don’t delay a vet visit. Early diagnosis can prevent complications and preserve your dog’s vision.
Final Thoughts
Occasional tearing isn’t always a cause for concern, but persistent or excessive weeping needs attention. Whether it’s allergies, irritation, or an underlying medical issue, identifying the root cause is key to effective treatment. Keeping your dog’s eyes clean and scheduling regular vet visits are the best ways to ensure lifelong eye health.
Your pet’s eyes are windows to their well-being — take care of them, and they’ll keep looking at you with the same loving sparkle every day.
