Your dog’s eyes are sensitive. They’re constantly exposed to dust, dirt and other particles. This can lead to issues like tear stains or dog eye boogers. It can create eye mucus as well. Fortunately, regular eye cleaning can help you catch early signs of infection and avoid discomfort for your pet. For example, Zoetis pet care blog explains that excessive tearing can result from insufficient draining of the tear film. This blocks the tear ducts. Dog eye cleaning becomes a simple part of their grooming routine with the right techniques and supplies. Pet owners can easily keep the canine’s vision clear and free from irritants.
Preparing to Clean Your Dog’s Eyes
Choose a calm environment. Dogs sense our energy, so choose a calm setting where your dog feels relaxed. Gather the supplies. You’ll need dog eye wipes and eye wash. Saline solution for dogs is also a must-have. A soft, clean cloth or cotton pads is the last item on the list. These materials are gentler and prevent the risk of eye irritation. Some dogs feel calmer with treats or gentle petting while being handled. A treat after cleaning helps reinforce positive associations with eye care.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Dog’s Eyes
Wash Your Hands and Prepare the Cleaning Supplies
Start by thoroughly washing your hands. This will help avoid the transfer of germs. Having saline solution for dogs ready helps clear any residue, while dog eye wipes and a soft cloth are ideal for wiping the area around the eyes. Avoid scented wipes or solutions meant for humans, as these may irritate your dog’s sensitive eyes.
Gently Restrain Your Dog to Prevent Movement
Keeping your dog steady is essential. This is especially true if they’re new to the cleaning process. Some dogs feel more comfortable when held gently by someone they trust. Others are fine if you speak calmly. All the handling must be done very gently and calmly. Aim for a relaxed hold to help keep them calm and comfortable.
Wiping Away Tear Stains and Eye Discharge
Tear stains can build up around the eyes. Dog eye boogers are also common. This happens very often in tear-prone breeds. Gently dab the area with a dog eye wipe to clean. Use a soft cloth moistened with saline solution. Hold a warm cloth against the area for a few seconds if the discharge is dry or crusty. It will soften the discharge. This makes it easier to remove without discomfort. PetMD has a very informative article on the various kinds of eye discharge and what they mean.
Using Saline Solution to Flush the Eyes
Dogs can have visible dirt or dust in their eyes after being outside. Gently flush it out if this happens. Using saline solution for dogs is safe. It helps to wash away debris without causing irritation. Simply tilt your dog’s head back. Drip a few drops into the inner corner of their eye. Let it flow across naturally.
Cleaning the Fur Around the Eyes
Long-haired dogs can benefit from regular fur cleaning around the eyes. It is also good for breeds prone to staining. Moisten a cloth with dog eye wash. Wipe gently around the eye area. It will keep fur clean and reduce the risk of irritation from trapped debris. Be careful not to pull on the fur around the eyes. It is a sensitive area.
Tips for Cleaning Eyes Based on Dog Breeds
Flat-Faced Breeds: Special Considerations for Bulldogs, Pugs, etc.
Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds have eyes that are more exposed. Common examples are Bulldogs and Pugs. It often means a need for more frequent cleaning. Their eye structure can make them prone to infections. With excessive eye mucus dog can suffer. Gentle wiping daily with dog eye wipes helps prevent tear stains. It also keeps the eyes fresh.
Long-Haired Breeds: Managing Hair Around the Eyes
Breeds with long hair may get hair stuck in their eyes. It leads to irritation or canine eye mucus. Shih Tzus or Yorkshire Terriers are such dogs. Trim the hair around their eyes regularly. You can ask your groomer to keep it short. Using eye wash for dogs after trimming helps ensure no stray hairs remain near their eyes.
Tear-Prone Breeds: Bichons, Maltese, and Poodles
Certain breeds, like Bichons, Maltese, and Poodles, are prone to tear staining. This dark staining occurs as a reaction between tears and the fur. Clean daily dogs eyes with wipes formulated to reduce stains, helping keep fur bright. This also prevents buildup from dried tears, sometimes called dog eye boogers, which can accumulate if not removed.
Breeds with Protruding Eyes: Tips for Pekingese, Shih Tzu, etc.
How to clean dogs eyes when they are prominent or protruding? Pekingese or Shih Tzus are more susceptible to debris getting trapped on the eye surface. Cleaning with a dog eye wash without pressing directly on the eye helps protect them from infections. Using eye wash for dogs regularly can keep the eyes healthy by gently rinsing away dust and particles.
Here are some general tips on how to clean dogs eyes.
Routine checks. Examine your dog’s eyes every week. Look for redness, swelling, or abnormal discharge.
Avoid irritants. Dust, smoke, and strong perfumes can irritate a dog’s eyes. Try to keep their environment as clean and allergen-free as possible.
Hydration. Proper hydration helps reduce the chance of dog eye crust or mucus buildup, so always provide fresh water.
