Can Dogs Get Eye Infections?
Redness, discharge and squinting are key signs. Do not use human drops, and see a vet quickly.
Yes, dogs can get eye infections, which cause redness, discharge, squinting and pawing at the eye. Causes range from bacteria and viruses to allergies, injuries and irritants. Because eye problems can worsen fast and threaten sight, any sign that lasts more than a day deserves a quick veterinary visit. One familiar form is conjunctivitis, or pink eye.
Symptoms to Watch For
Because allergies can inflame the eyes and ears at the same time, a dog with sore eyes is worth checking for ear infections too.
| Sign | What you might notice |
|---|---|
| Redness | A pink or bloodshot look to the eye |
| Discharge | Watery, or thick yellow or green gunk |
| Squinting | Holding the eye partly or fully closed |
| Swelling | Puffy lids or tissue around the eye |
| Pawing and rubbing | Rubbing the eye on paws or furniture |
What to Do
- Clean gently. Wipe away discharge with a soft cloth and sterile saline.
- Stop the rubbing. A recovery cone or a pair of dog goggles prevents further damage.
- Skip human drops. Do not use any medication unless your vet directs it.
- See your vet. Get the eye examined so the right treatment can start.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs of an eye infection in dogs?
Common signs include redness, yellow or green discharge, watery eyes, squinting, swelling, cloudiness, and pawing or rubbing at the eye. Your dog may also keep the eye partly closed or seem sensitive to light. Any of these lasting more than a day should be seen by a vet.
What causes eye infections in dogs?
Causes include bacterial and viral infections, allergies, foreign objects like grass seeds, dry eye, injuries and irritants such as dust or shampoo. Some breeds with prominent eyes or facial folds are more prone. The right treatment depends on the cause, which is why a vet exam matters.
Can I use human eye drops on my dog?
No. Never put human eye drops or ointments in your dog's eye unless your vet specifically tells you to, as some are harmful and can mask a serious problem. You can gently rinse the eye with sterile saline, but let the vet choose any medicated treatment.
How are dog eye infections treated?
Treatment depends on the cause and may include medicated eye drops or ointment, removing a foreign object, treating an allergy, or addressing dry eye with tear-stimulating drops. Most simple infections clear quickly once the right treatment starts, which is why prompt care is important.
⚠️ Emergency? If your dog may have swallowed something toxic or is seriously unwell, contact your vet or a pet poison helpline immediately (in the US, the Pet Poison Helpline is 855-764-7661).
Sources: American Kennel Club (akc.org), VCA Animal Hospitals (vcahospitals.com) and the American Veterinary Medical Association (avma.org). This guide is for general information and is not a substitute for advice from your own veterinarian. See our editorial & review policy.
