Is It Normal for My Dog to Have Runny Eyes?

Common Causes of Runny Eyes in Dogs

Persistent eye discharge in dogs is often due to irritation or an underlying health issue. Common causes include allergies, which may lead to tearing, itching, and face rubbing. Allergic reactions can also cause hives and are usually temporary once the allergen is removed. Another frequent cause is a foreign body—like grass seeds, dirt, or plant matter—getting trapped in the eye or behind the eyelids. Dogs who ride in open vehicles or run through tall grass are at higher risk.

Signs of a foreign object include excessive tearing, blinking, squinting, pawing at the eye, and the third eyelid protruding. If the eye is scratched or penetrated, it requires immediate veterinary attention. Even if the object is removed, continued discomfort or discharge means a vet visit is necessary.

When to See a Veterinarian

You should contact your veterinarian if your dog has ongoing eye discharge, especially if it’s accompanied by redness, cloudiness, crusting, squinting, or a visible third eyelid. These signs may indicate an infection or injury. The American Veterinary Dental College and other sources recommend regular eye checks as part of routine health monitoring.

If your dog has tear stains—especially on white dogs—this can be a sign of allergies or tear duct problems. While some owners use dietary supplements to reduce staining, the root cause should be diagnosed by a vet first. Never attempt to treat a suspected eye injury without professional guidance.

How to Safely Check Your Dog’s Eyes

Regularly inspect your dog’s eyes for signs of trouble. A healthy eye should be clear with no excessive discharge. Look for uneven eye opening, unequal pupil size, bulging, ingrown eyelashes, or hair touching the eye. If you notice gunk in the corners, gently wipe it away with a moist cotton ball.

Avoid using cotton balls with harsh chemicals or cleaning solutions. If you suspect a foreign object, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Instead, restrain your dog and seek veterinary help. If you must flush the eye, use cool water or sterile saline for 10–15 minutes, but stop if the dog shows pain or worsening symptoms.

Treatment and Prevention Tips

For mild irritation from dust or pollen, a vet may prescribe corticosteroid eye drops or ointments. Oral antihistamines may also help reduce allergic responses. However, never use human medications without vet approval.

To prevent eye issues: - Keep your dog’s face clean and hair trimmed away from the eyes. - Avoid letting your dog run through dense brush or ride with head out of car windows. - Clean eyes and ears weekly with vet-recommended products. - Monitor for signs of infection, such as odor, swelling, or discharge.

What Not to Do

Do not attempt to remove deeply embedded objects or treat suspected corneal injuries yourself. Doing so can cause further damage. Never use cotton swabs or sharp tools near the eye. If your dog is squinting or pawing at the eye after a foreign body is removed, seek veterinary care immediately.