What are the characteristics of dry eye disease in canine? What to do if a dog has dry eye disease?

Pet 8:02am, 12 July 2025 138

Dry eye disease in dogs, also known as dry keratinitis in dogs. The cause is that the dog's tears are insufficient, and some viral infections such as canine distemper can also lead to dry eye disease.

1. Causes of dry eye disease in canine:

1. Inadequate secretion of tears in dogs. In addition to moistening the cornea and washing away foreign objects, the tear also has enzymes and antibodies to prevent the disease from entering. If the eyeballs lose the infiltration and protection of the tears, the cornea is prone to thickening and unevenness, and even ulcers or fibrosis, which in severe cases can lead to blindness.

2. Certain viral infections such as canine distemper can also lead to dry eye disease.

3. Certain drugs can also reduce the secretion of tears.

4. Removal of the third eyelid is also prone to dry eye syndrome.

5. Certain breeds of dogs, such as Pekingese and pugs, are prone to attack.

6. Older animals are more likely to experience insufficient tears.

2. Symptoms of dry eye disease in canine:

1. The dog blinks frequently and scratches the eyes with its forelimbs. The surface of the eyes loses its luster and the eyes are covered with small, dry and hard eye poop.

2. In the early stage of the onset, the surface of the eyeball will become turbid and dry, which will then cause fibrosis and even blepharospasm.

3. Prevention and treatment measures for dry eye disease in canine:

1. Artificial tears can be used for symptomatic treatment.

2. Antibiotic treatment to prevent and treat infection.

3. Inject drugs that stimulate the secretion of tears.