Canine Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye in Dogs)

Canine conjunctivitis (dog pink eye) is one of the most common dog eye problems. It is characterized by a red eye, usually with discharge, but the dog does not seem to be in pain. Read on and learn more about the types of conjunctivitis in dogs, their symptoms, causes, and treatment.

Conjunctivitis in dogs, commonly called "dog pink eye", is an inflammation of the conjunctival membrane and soft tissues surrounding the eye. The conjunctival membrane surrounds and covers the surface of the eyeball, up to the cornea. It also extends into the back of the eyelids. It protects and shields the eyeball, holds the eyeball in place, and ensures that the eyeball remains properly lubricated at all times, through the distribution of tears and moisture. In short, the conjunctival membrane plays an important part in the overall wellbeing of a dog's eye.

Conjunctivitis occurs when there is a buildup of harmful matters (e.g. bacteria, irritants) on conjunctival membrane, disrupting its natural functioning. This impairs the proper functioning of the tear ducts and other specialized cells responsible for creating moisture, and the eye will become dry and scratchy.

If your dog has a red eye with discharge but without showing any pain, he may have conjunctivitis. The eye discharge as a result of dog conjunctivitis may be clear and watery, or it may be mucus-like, or pus-like, depending on the cause of conjunctivitis.

Causes of Canine Conjunctivitis

Irritants or Allergens (Allergic Conjunctivitis)
Conjunctivitis in dogs can be caused by physical irritants such as dust, small bugs, debris, or allergens such as insect bites, or food ingredients. Dogs with allergic conjunctivitis usually have clear watery discharge and the affected eye is itchy.

Bacteria (Bacterial Conjunctivitis)
Sometimes inflammation of the conjunctival membrane can develop into a full-blown bacterial infection. The most common bacteria responsible for bacterial conjunctivitis are Streptococcus and Staphylococcus. Eye discharge as a result of bacterial conjunctivitis contains mucus and pus, and the conjunctiva is red and swollen. Sometimes the eyelids may become crusted due to the thick secretions.
When bacterial infection occurs behind the eyelids in a newborn puppy, the result is called neonatal conjunctivitis. It occurs when bacteria get to the space behind the eyelids during or shortly after birth. The puppy's eyelids are swollen and there may be a pus-like discharge if the eyes are beginning to open. Sometimes the discharge can cause the eyelids to stick together. If you suspect neonatal conjunctivitis in your puppy, consult your vet immediately because delay in treatment can lead to blindness.

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Symptoms of Canine Conjunctivitis

Besides the hallmark symptoms of eye discharge and redness, canine conjunctivitis can also cause a dog to paw at the affected eye, and rub his face against the edge of furniture or on the floor due to itchiness and irritation.

Also, conjunctivitis causes the affected eye to become more sensitive to light, so the dog may squint and may avoid going outside during the day. He may seem to be more lethargic and may sleep more.

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Treatment of Canine Conjunctivitis

Treatment of canine conjunctivitis depends on the underlying cause of the infection.

A mild case of conjunctivitis with watery discharge caused by irritants, for example, responds well to home remedies. Simply flushing the eye several times a day with a sterile saline eyewash should do the trick. You may also want to use a soft cloth to wipe the area around your dog's eye in order to remove any eye discharge and any dirt or foreign materials.

Alternatively, here is an effective herbal tincture for your dog's eyes: PetAlive Eye-Heal for Pet. It contains a blend of pure and natural herbal ingredients and can soothe the eyes while supporting eye health, especially the health of the conjunctiva.

However, for more serious cases such as bacterial conjunctivitis, veterinary treatment is necessary. The vet will first remove the secretions and crusts from the eyes and will then usually apply topical antibiotics to the infected eye. You will be instructed to do the same at home for several days beyond apparent cure.