Why is My Dog Squinting? Squinting and Blinking in Dogs
If your dog is squinting, blinking excessively, or keeping one eye tightly shut, it is often a sign of significant eye pain. These symptoms should never be ignored, as they can indicate serious conditios such as corneal ulcers, eye trauma, or a foreign object trapped in the eye. At Animal Eye Specialists in Plano, TX, our veterinary ophthalmologists provide advanced diagnostic testing and treatment to identify the source of your dog's discomfort and protect their vision.
Why Is My Dog Squinting?
Squinting, also known as blepharospasm, occurs when a dog involuntarily closes or partially closes the eye due to irritation or pain. Even minor injuries to the surface of the eye can cause significant discomfort.
Common causes of dog squinting include:
- Corneal ulcers
- Eye scratches
- Foreign objects in the eye
- Eye trauma
- Dry eye
- Conjunctivitis
- Glaucoma
- Uveitis
- Eyelid abnormalities
Because many of these conditions require different treatments, a thorough ophthalmic examination is essential.
Corneal Ulcers in Dogs
A corneal ulcer is a scratch or wound on the clear outer surface of the eye. Corneal ulcers are one of the most common causes of eye pain in dogs and can range from mild surface injuries to deep ulcers that threaten vision.
Signs of a corneal ulcer may include:
- Squinting or keeping the eye closed
- Excessive blinking
- Increased tearing
- Redness
- Eye discharge
- Pawing at the face
- Sensitivity to light
Without proper treatment, some ulcers can rapidly worsen and lead to serious complications.
Eye Trauma and Foreign Objects
Dogs can injure their eyes while playing, running through vegetation, interacting with other animals, or experiencing accidental trauma. Foreign material such as grass seeds, dirt, or debris can also become trapped beneath the eyelids and cause severe irritation.
Prompt evaluation is important because even small injuries can develop into larger problems if left untreated.
Advanced Diagnostic Testing
At Animal Eye Specialists, we use specialized diagnostic tools to determine the cause and severity of your dog's eye condition.
Fluorescein Staining
Fluorescein staining is a simple, painless test that highlights scratches, ulcers, and defects on the surface of the eye. This diagnostic procedure allows us to accurately map the size and depth of a corneal ulcer and develop the most appropriate treatment plan.
Comprehensive Eye Examination
A complete ophthalmic examination helps evaluate the cornea, eyelids, tear production, and internal structures of the eye to identify any underlying causes of pain or irritation.
Advanced Corneal Repair Procedures
While many superficial ulcers can heal with medical management, more severe cases may require specialized treatment. Deep or melting corneal ulcers can progress quickly and threaten the integrity of the eye.
Our ophthalmology team provides advanced corneal repair procedures designed to stabilize the eye, promote healing, and preserve vision whenever possible. Early intervention often leads to the best outcomes.
When Should You Seek Immediate Care?
You should contact a veterinary ophthalmologist right away if your dog is:
- Keeping one eye shut
- Squinting continuously
- Blinking excessively
- Pawing at the eye
- Showing redness or swelling
- Experiencing eye discharge
- Suddenly sensitive to light
- Appearing to have an eye injury
Because ocular pain can worsen quickly, prompt evaluation is highly recommended.
Schedule an Evaluation
If your dog is squinting, blinking excessively, or keeping one eye closed, don't wait to seek care. At Animal Eye Specialists in Plano, TX, we diagnose and treat corneal ulcers, eye injuries, and other painful eye conditions using advanced diagnostic and surgical techniques. Call (972) 437-3937 today to schedule an ophthalmic evaluation and help protect your dog's vision.
