Dog owners often worry when they see their dog’s eyes are red and watery. Can dogs get conjunctivitis? Yes, dogs can get conjunctivitis, but medically it’s called pterygium. It’s not just simple redness; it’s an inflammation of the thin membrane lining the inner eyelid. Although this condition is common in dogs, the causes and treatments differ significantly from those in humans.

Typical symptoms

How can I tell if my dog has conjunctivitis?

  • Red eyes: The eyes are noticeably red and bloodshot.
  • Increased discharge: It may be clear and watery, caused by allergies or dust, or it may be yellow or green purulent discharge, caused by infection.
  • Frequent blinking: Frequent blinking or closing of the eyes indicates obvious discomfort.
  • Rubbing eyes: Dogs will rub their eyes with their paws or rub against the sofa or carpet.

Special note:If the dog has symptoms in both eyes, it is usually due to allergy or infection; if it has symptoms in only one eye, it is usually due to a foreign object or injury.

Triggers and infectivity

There are usually three triggers:

  1. Allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and smoke.
  2. Viruses and bacteria
  3. Physiological problems such as injury, dry eye syndrome, and ingrown eyelashes

Infectivity is generally divided into two types

  1. Between dogs: If it is a bacterial or viral infection that is contagious, the sick dog should be isolated quickly.
  2. Between humans and dogs: Cross-species transmission is very rare, so don’t worry about getting infected. However, it’s important to note that transmission between dogs can occur through your hands, so remember to wash your hands after touching a sick dog to keep them free of pathogens.

Treatment and Home Care

  • Professional treatment: Veterinarians typically prescribe antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs to treat dogs.
  • Home care:
  • Rinse with sterile saline solution (Note: Do not use human eye drops containing steroids). For a safer and easier solution, you can try some dog eye care products available on our site.
  • Applying a warm water compress can effectively relieve a dog’s discomfort.
  • Remember to put an Elizabethan collar on your dog before grooming to prevent it from scratching you due to stress.

For detailed guidance, check our guide on how to clean a dog’s eyes, which shows step-by-step safe methods for at-home eye care.

Medical Guide

If you notice your dog’s discharge is thick, its eyes are cloudy, or it is behaving abnormally or showing signs of extreme pain, do not wait; take it to the vet immediately. Timely veterinary care can rule out serious eye conditions (dry eye, glaucoma) and help your dog’s eyes regain their brightness more quickly.