How to Keep Your Dog's Eyes Clean

Many dogs naturally accumulate discharge around their eyes, which can lead to discomfort, irritation, or even infections if not regularly cleaned. While some breeds are more prone to eye discharge than others, every dog can benefit from a little extra care to keep their eyes clear, clean, and healthy.

Read on to get our top eye care tips, including why eye care matters, gently cleaning your dog’s eyes, and when to seek veterinary or professional grooming care if you notice signs of irritation or infection.

Tips for Cleaning Your Dog’s Eyes

Whether your dog has an occasional tear stain or frequent discharge, here’s a step-by-step guide to keeping their eyes clean and clear.

1. Choose the Right Time and Place

Find a calm, quiet time and a comfortable spot to clean your dog’s eyes. A familiar environment helps your pet feel more relaxed, and a good moment might be after a walk or meal when they’re more likely to stay still.

2. Gather Your Supplies

For gentle, effective cleaning, you’ll need:

• Sterile gauze pads or soft cotton balls
• Dog-safe eye wipes or saline solution (avoid harsh chemicals or anything with alcohol)
• A damp cloth for wiping any remaining discharge or buildup

Avoid using anything sharp or rough around the eyes, and don’t use products meant for humans, as these can be too harsh for a dog’s sensitive skin and eyes.

3. Gently Wipe the Area Around the Eyes

Dampen a cotton ball or gauze pad with the saline solution or warm water. Gently wipe around the eye, focusing on the area beneath it where discharge often accumulates. Be sure to move away from the eye rather than towards it, so no debris is accidentally pushed into the eye.

4. Address Tear Stains

For dogs with lighter coats, tear stains can be common and noticeable. You can use a dog-safe tear stain remover or opt for wipes specifically formulated for tear stains. Gently dab the stained area, being cautious to avoid direct contact with the eye itself.

If tear staining is frequent or worsening, consult your vet as it can indicate underlying health issues or dietary imbalances.

5. Trim Excess Fur Around the Eyes

Excess fur around the eyes can cause irritation, trap dirt, or lead to eye infections. A quick trim of fur near your dog’s eyes every few weeks will help keep their vision clear and reduce discharge. Be very careful, and if you’re uncomfortable with trimming, your groomer can assist with this delicate area.

When to Clean Your Dog’s Eyes

For most dogs, a gentle wipe once a week is enough. However, if your dog is prone to discharge or has a flat face and large eyes (like Pugs or Bulldogs), daily or every-other-day cleaning may be necessary.

Here’s a quick guide:

• Weekly Cleaning: For dogs with minimal eye discharge and no history of eye issues.
• Daily or Every-Other-Day Cleaning: For breeds prone to tearing or dogs with frequent discharge.

Signs of Eye Issues to Watch For

While regular cleaning helps maintain eye health, some symptoms indicate a more serious issue that requires veterinary care. Watch for these signs in your dog’s eyes:

• Excessive discharge: Persistent, yellow, green, or thick discharge can indicate infection.
• Redness or swelling: Red eyes, puffiness, or any swelling may point to irritation or allergies.
• Cloudiness or color changes: A cloudy appearance or color changes in your dog’s eyes could indicate an eye condition or age-related issue.
• Frequent pawing at the eyes: If your dog is pawing, scratching, or rubbing their face, it could mean their eyes are uncomfortable or itchy.
• Sensitivity to light or squinting: Squinting or avoiding bright light can be a sign of pain or irritation.

Extra Tips for Eye Health

1. Protect Against Debris: Avoid windy or dusty environments that might irritate your dog’s eyes. If you’re out in an area with lots of pollen or debris, check your dog’s eyes when you get home.
2. Regular Grooming: Professional grooming can help keep the eye area clear, especially for dogs with long fur that can obscure their vision or cause irritation. Aussie Pet Mobile has experience with all kinds of dogs and can help keep your pet’s eyes clear and bright.
3. Dietary Supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids and other vitamins can support eye health. Talk to your vet about any beneficial supplements for your dog’s diet.
4. Veterinary Checkups: Regular vet visits ensure that any minor eye conditions are caught early and treated before they develop into bigger issues.

Keeping your dog’s eyes clean is essential for their comfort and health. With a little weekly or daily attention, you can help prevent irritation, infection, and staining, allowing your pet to enjoy bright, healthy eyes. And remember, regular grooming appointments at Aussie Pet Mobile  are a great way to keep your pet’s eyes and overall appearance looking their best!