Red eyes in dogs occur when the tissues of the eye become inflamed. This may be due to minor irritation or a serious eye disease. Because early treatment can prevent pain and protect your dog’s vision, always speak to a vet if you notice redness.

Many eye problems can cause redness. Finding the exact cause and best treatment requires a detailed veterinary examination of the eye. It helps with diagnosis if you can describe any changes you have noticed, such as discharges, cloudiness or bluing of the eye, excessive blinking or holding the eye closed.

What to do if your dog has red eyes

If your dog has red eye(s) but seems comfortable (not pawing, squinting or holding the eye shut):

• Gently clean the eye(s) using boiled and cooled water with a clean cotton pad 2-3 times per day. 

• Monitor closely for a few hours. 

• If there’s no improvement or new signs appear, contact a vet. 

Common causes of red eyes

A variety of problems can cause your dog's eye to become red. 

Surface problems and irritants

• Conjunctivitis: inflammation of the conjunctivae, the lining around the eye

• Corneal ulcer: scratches or surface injury to the eye

• Allergies

• Irritants: smoke, dust, sand, wind

• Dry eye: reduced tear production

• Cherry eye: an inflamed and protruding third eyelid gland

• Entropion: eyelids rolling inward, causing irritation

• Injury or trauma: direct damage to the eye

Internal (deeper) and serious eye disease

• Glaucoma: increased pressure inside the eye

• Uveitis: inflammation inside the eye

• Bleeding: due to trauma or clotting problems

• Tumour: growth affecting the eye or surrounding tissues

• High blood pressure: may cause eye redness and bleeding

When to seek veterinary advice

Contact a vet immediately if your dog has red eyes plus:

• Sudden, severe bloodshot appearance

• Squinting or inability to open the eye

• Pawing at the face, signs of pain or lethargy

• Cloudy or bluish eye

• Blood inside the eye

• Bulging eye(s)

• Sudden loss of vision

Joii can help with advice and support:

• If you are concerned that your dog’s eyes look different to usual

• If you need help applying or giving medication

How to prevent red eyes in your dog

It’s not always possible to prevent red eye conditions, but you can reduce risks:

• Seek early vet advice if you notice squinting, discharge, or bloodshot eyes.

• Supervise your dog when meeting cats or other dogs for the first time.

• Be aware of the risks when walking your dog in dusty or long grass areas.

• Keep hair around the eyes trimmed, especially in long-haired breeds.

How to look after your dog with red eyes

After your vet has examined your dog, follow their advice closely. Key measures include:

• Keep the buster collar on at all times to prevent further injury.

• Give or apply all medications as prescribed by your vet, at the correct time and dose.

• Follow the advice for any updates or follow-up appointments.

• Monitor for any eye discharge and prevent build-up with regular, gentle cleansing.

Vet treatment for red eyes in dogs

Treatment depends on the underlying cause, and may include:

Prescription medication (by mouth or as eye drops): 

• Anti-inflammatory medicines to reduce swelling

• Antibiotics for bacterial infection

• Eye lubricants or tear stimulants for dry eye

• Pain relief

• Medicines to reduce high pressure inside the eye (for glaucoma)

Surgery (for certain conditions):

• Correction of eyelid problems, such as entropion

• Cherry eye gland replacement surgery

• Corneal grafts or other procedures for severe ulcers or trauma
  
  

Are some dogs more at risk of red eyes?

Some breeds are more prone to red eyes due to their facial shape or loose eyelids.

• Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds, including Bulldogs, Boxers, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Their eyes protrude, making them vulnerable to irritation and injury

• Breeds with loose eyelids, including Golden Retriever, Great Dane, St. Bernard, Labrador, and Poodle: Their eyelids may not protect the eyes properly