What to Do When Your Dog Has Excessive Tear Production

Excessive tearing in dogs is a common problem that can stem from a variety of causes, ranging from minor irritations to serious underlying health issues. Understanding the reasons behind your dog’s watery eyes is crucial for providing appropriate care and preventing complications. This comprehensive guide will explore the common causes of excessive tear production in dogs, effective cleaning and care methods, and when professional veterinary attention is necessary.

Understanding the Root Causes of Doggy Tears

While a little tear production is normal, excessive tearing often indicates a problem. Several factors can contribute to this, including:

Allergies: Environmental allergens like pollen, dust mites, and certain foods can trigger an allergic reaction, resulting in increased tear production, redness, and itching. These allergies can be seasonal or year-round.

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): This inflammation of the conjunctiva (the membrane lining the eyelid and covering the white part of the eye) can be caused by bacterial, viral, or fungal infections, as well as irritants like dust or foreign bodies. Symptoms include redness, swelling, discharge, and excessive tearing.

Blocked Tear Ducts: The tear ducts drain tears from the eye into the nasal cavity. A blockage in these ducts can prevent proper drainage, leading to overflow and excessive tearing. This blockage can be caused by infection, inflammation, or anatomical abnormalities.

Eyelid Issues: Inwardly turning eyelids (entropion) or abnormally growing eyelashes (distichiasis or ectopic cilia) can irritate the cornea (the transparent front part of the eye), causing excessive tear production and discomfort. This often requires veterinary intervention.

Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca): Surprisingly, a lack of sufficient tear production can also lead to excessive tearing. This paradoxical situation arises because the reduced quality of tears fails to properly lubricate and protect the eye, triggering compensatory increased tear production that is often insufficient and less effective.

Infections: Various bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can affect the eyes, causing inflammation and excessive tearing. Canine distemper, for example, is a serious viral infection that can have severe ocular complications.

Dental Problems: Believe it or not, dental disease, especially involving the upper teeth near the eye, can lead to irritation and secondary tear duct inflammation, resulting in excessive tearing.

Irritants: Foreign bodies such as dust, grass seeds, or other debris can irritate the eye, causing excessive tearing. Similarly, certain chemicals or cleaning products can also lead to irritation.

Genetics and Breed Predisposition: Some breeds, such as Poodles, Pekingese, Shih Tzus, and Bulldogs, are more prone to excessive tearing due to their facial structure and tear duct anatomy.

Daily Eye Care and Cleaning

Regardless of the underlying cause, maintaining good eye hygiene is crucial. Here’s how to properly clean your dog’s eyes:

1. Gentle Cleaning: Use a soft, damp cloth or cotton ball (avoid cotton balls that may leave fibres behind) to gently wipe away any discharge or debris from the corners of the eyes. Always wipe from the inner corner outward to prevent spreading any infection. Warm water is generally sufficient. Avoid harsh rubbing, as this can further irritate the eye.

2. Specialized Eye Cleansers: For stubborn discharge or suspected infection, use a canine-specific eye cleanser or solution recommended by your veterinarian. Never use human eye products on your dog.

3. Eye Drops or Ointments: Your veterinarian may prescribe eye drops or ointments to treat underlying infections or allergies. Always administer medication as directed.

When to Seek Veterinary Attention

While routine cleaning can address minor issues, certain signs warrant immediate veterinary attention:

Severe redness or swelling: This may indicate a serious infection or injury.

Cloudy or opaque cornea: This suggests corneal ulceration or other corneal damage.

Persistent discharge (especially if it’s yellow-green or bloody): This often points towards an infection.

Squinting or pawing at the eye: This is a sign of pain and discomfort.

Lack of response to light: This can be a serious indication of severe eye disease.

Persistent tearing despite cleaning: If the tearing doesn’t improve after a few days of home care, veterinary consultation is essential.

Dietary Considerations

A diet high in sodium can exacerbate tear staining. Opt for high-quality dog food with moderate salt content. If you suspect dietary allergies are involved, consult your veterinarian about a hypoallergenic or elimination diet.

Conclusion

Excessive tearing in dogs is a symptom, not a disease. Careful observation, proper cleaning techniques, and timely veterinary care are essential for diagnosing and treating the underlying cause. Remember, early intervention can prevent serious complications and ensure your dog’s eye health and comfort. Do not hesitate to consult a veterinarian if you have any concerns about your dog’s eyes.