Some dogs have a lot of hair that covers their eyes, making it difficult to see. However, this hair can cause discomfort and even damage to their eyes. Dogs can feel when hair goes into their eyes, just like humans. It can cause pain, discomfort, and even corneal ulcers. Dogs may not always show obvious signs of discomfort, but when the hair is removed, they become happier. Signs that a dog has hair in their eyes include partially closing the eye, rubbing the eye with a paw, or scooting the face along the ground. Hair rubbing against the cornea can cause ulcers, leading to a completely closed eye or excessive tearing. If the eye looks sore, inflamed, dull, or if there is a change in its reflection, it is best to consult a vet. Dogs may exhibit body language such as whining, shaking, cowering, or dropping their ears if they are bothered by their eyes. Other signs of eye discomfort include discharge from the eye, scooting the face along the ground, rubbing the eye with a paw, squinting, or partially closing the eye.
A History of Canine Senses
Dogs come in various sizes and shapes due to selective breeding for specific traits. This breeding aimed to enhance certain abilities, such as herding, tracking, or guarding. Different breeds have different senses, with some being more finely tuned than others. Dogs can feel pain, but their ability to communicate their discomfort may be different from humans. Hair in their eyes is irritating to dogs, just as it is to humans, but they express their discomfort through different body language.
The Science of In-turned Eyelids
Some breeds, like the Shar-Pei, have extra skin and wrinkles that can cause a condition called entropion. This is when the eyelids roll inward, pushing the eyelashes against the cornea. This constant irritation can cause pain, discomfort, and a permanent squint. Corrective surgery is necessary to alleviate the discomfort. The surgery involves removing excess skin to position the eyelids more naturally and away from the cornea. Living with inturned eyelids can be uncomfortable for dogs, but they may not show obvious signs of discomfort if they have always had the condition. It is recommended to have a vet examine the dog’s eyes and consider surgical correction. If surgery is not an option, pain relief and lubricating eye drops can help. Breeding dogs with inturned eyelids is not recommended as the condition can be hereditary.
“Through body language and subtle signs, dogs communicate their discomfort when hair gets in their eyes, just like humans. Understanding and addressing this issue is crucial for their well-being.”
Tips & Things to Know
1️⃣ Dogs with hair in their eyes can feel discomfort and may show signs such as rubbing at the eye, scooting the face along the ground, or holding the eye partially closed. It’s important to check for signs of discomfort and seek veterinary care if necessary.
2️⃣ Pay attention to your dog’s body language, as it can be a clue that they are bothered by their eyes. Signs such as whining, shaking, cowering, and dropped ears may indicate discomfort or pain.
3️⃣ In-turned eyelids, a condition known as entropion, can cause constant discomfort for dogs. Surgical correction is often necessary to alleviate this issue, but if surgery is not possible, pain relief and lubricating drops can help provide some relief. It’s also important not to breed dogs with in-turned eyelids to prevent passing on the problem to future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions, Answered ✅
1. Do dogs feel discomfort when hair gets in their eyes?
– Yes, dogs feel uncomfortable and can experience pain and physical damage when hair goes into their eyes.
2. How do dogs show signs of discomfort when they have hair in their eyes?
– Dogs may partially close their eyes, rub at the eye with a paw, or scoot their face along the ground to try to dislodge the hair.
3. What are the signs that a dog’s eye may be damaged from hair rubbing against it?
– Look for soreness, inflammation, dullness, or a jump in the reflection of the eye. Excessive watering or tearing and a wet cheek on one side of the face can also indicate damage.
4. What are some body language signs that a dog is bothered by their eye?
– Whining, shaking, cowering, and dropped ears can be signs that a dog is uncomfortable or in pain.
5. What is the cause of inturned eyelids in certain dog breeds and how can it be treated?
– Certain dog breeds with extra skin and wrinkles, such as the Shar-Pei, can suffer from a condition called entropion. Corrective surgery is often required to remove excess skin and reposition the eyelid to alleviate discomfort. If surgery is not possible, pain relief and lubricating drops may be recommended.
