Conjunctivitis in dogs

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the ‘conjunctiva’ of the eye – a lining over the eyelid and eyeball that acts as a barrier to infection and foreign objects. When it is infected or inflamed it is known as conjunctivitis, or ‘pink eye’.

It’s important to take your dog to the vet if you think they have conjunctivitis.

What are the symptoms of conjunctivitis in dogs?

The symptoms of conjunctivitis may include:

• weepy or runny eyes
• clear or green discharge from the eye
• reddening of the whites of the eyes
• pawing at the affected eye or rubbing their face against objects
• squinting and blinking more than normal

Conjunctivitis can be in one or both eyes depending on the cause.

How do dogs get conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis can be caused by:

• foreign bodies such as a grass seed or grit getting into the eye
• an allergy
• an injury
• bites in the eye area
• dry eye (caused by a lack of tears)
• eye diseases, such as glaucoma
• a bacterial infection
• a viral infection, such as canine herpes or canine distemper
• parasites, such as eye worm

Treatment for conjunctivitis

Your vet will give your dog a thorough eye exam to look for the cause of your dog’s conjunctivitis. This will determine the treatment needed for your pet.

Treatment can include:

• medicated eye drops
• lubricants for the eye
• antihistamines or anti-inflammatories
• sedation to remove a foreign body
• surgery (if are other serious underlying problems)
• a buster collar to prevent further irritation from your dog rubbing the eye

If you're worried about giving your dog their eye drops, we have some great advice on how to do this.

Will my dog fully recover from conjunctivitis?

Most dogs make a full recovery from conjunctivitis. In rare cases, dogs that also had damage to the eyeball or other underlying conditions, can be left with permanent sight problems or may need to stay on treatment for the rest of their life. Early treatment gives your dog the very best chance of avoiding these complications.

If your dog suffers with allergies, conjunctivitis is likely to flare up from time to time.

Can you catch conjunctivitis from a dog?

It is extremely unlikely, but it's important to get your dog to the vet right away.