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Dog Eye Health 101: How to Keep Your Pup’s Eyes Clean & Healthy
Our dogs’ eyes are everything. They are the windows into their goofy, lovable souls, the force behind those sassy side-eyes and the reason we get to enjoy the wide-eyed excitement when you so much as whisper the word “walk”.
But beyond all the adorable expressions, keeping up with your dog’s eye health is super important for their overall well-being. After all, how else are they supposed to expertly track a rogue tennis ball, keep a lookout for snack opportunities, or take in the breathtaking sights of their favourite park?
Just like us, dogs can run into all sorts of eye issues like irritation, infections, dryness, or even more serious conditions that could affect their vision. And since they can’t exactly grab some eye drops or schedule a vet appointment themselves, it’s up to us, their devoted humans, to make sure their eyes stay healthy.
Thankfully, keeping your pup’s peepers healthy isn’t complicated. With just a few simple habits and a little know-how, you can help prevent common problems and protect your dog’s vision for years to come.
Today, we’re exploring all the best tips and tricks for maintaining top-notch dog eye health. From daily care routines to the best food toppers for dog eye health, we’ve got everything you need to make sure your four-legged best friend sees the world clearly.
How To Properly and Safely Clean Your Dog’s Eyes
Some dogs are just naturally prone to those stubborn “eye bogies” (as we lovingly call them in my household). While a little morning eye gunk is normal, letting it build up can lead to irritation, staining, and even infections.
If you’ve got a short-nosed breed like a Shih Tzu, Pekingese, or Pug, you’ll likely know the struggle of dog eye discharge all too well because these squishy-faced cuties often have shallow eye sockets or extra skin folds that make excessive tearing a daily occurrence. Cocker Spaniels and Poodles also tend to have blocked tear ducts, meaning they’re more likely to develop tear stains and eye discharge. If your pup falls into one of these categories, it’s definitely worth stocking up on some quality eye wipes for dogs to stay on top of their eye health.
So, how do you safely and effectively clean your dog’s eyes?
- Start by dampening a clean cloth or cotton ball with warm water or a vet-approved saline solution. You can also use eye wipes specially designed for dogs. This helps loosen any dried discharge and soothes your pup’s eyes.
- Gently hold the damp cloth over your dog’s closed eyelids for a few seconds to soften any crusty build-up.
- Then wipe from the inner corner of the eye (near the nose) outward toward the ears, always using a fresh section of the cloth for each stroke.
- Be sure to use a new cloth or cotton ball for each eye to avoid spreading bacteria
- Pat the area dry with a soft paper towel or dry cloth when you’re done.
It’s important to avoid using soap, alcohol, or peroxide, as these can sting and cause irritation. If your dog has a lot of discharge, you may need to change the cloth a few times to get everything properly cleaned. Regularly trimming the fur around your dog’s eyes can also help prevent buildup and irritation.
If your dog wakes up every morning with stained, gunky eyes or if cleaning them feels like a full-time job, the Gentle Tear Stain Eye Wipes from Dogslife are a must-have. These pre-soaked, aloe-infused dog wipes are designed to gently and effectively remove tear stains and discharge without irritation. They’re safe for daily use, even on sensitive pups, and the soothing aloe vera formula helps keep the delicate eye area calm and clean. With a pack of 100 pre-moistened wipes, you’ll always have a quick and convenient way to keep your dog’s eye health in check.
The Best Ingredients for Dog Eye Health
Just like us, dogs rely on good nutrition to maintain healthy vision. A well-balanced diet packed with key nutrients can help protect their eyes from issues like dryness, infections, and even age-related degeneration. If you want to keep your pup’s eyesight sharp and their peepers bright, incorporating the right foods is a great place to start.
Carrots
I feel like we were all told as children to eat our carrots to help us see in the dark. Well, our parents weren’t lying, because carrots are a classic eye-health booster for both humans and dogs. They’re packed with beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, an essential nutrient for maintaining clear vision. Vitamin A helps protect the surface of the eye and supports night vision, allowing your dog to see better in low-light conditions which is essential for those late-night toilet trips.
Blueberries
Blueberries are tiny but mighty when it comes to dog eye health. They’re loaded with antioxidants, including vitamin C and E, which help fight oxidative stress and reduce the risk of eye diseases like cataracts. The compounds in blueberries also support the health of the retina, the part of the eye responsible for detecting light and colour.
Sweet Potatoes
Another beta-carotene powerhouse, sweet potatoes offer the same vitamin A benefits as carrots, helping to maintain strong and healthy eyesight. They also contain lutein, a carotenoid that acts as a natural sunblock for the eyes, protecting them from harmful UV rays. The natural fibre in sweet potatoes also supports digestion, making them a fantastic all-around addition to your dog’s diet.
Spinach
Leafy greens like spinach are full of lutein and zeaxanthin, two powerful antioxidants that help filter harmful blue light and reduce the risk of macular degeneration. Spinach is also rich in iron and vitamin C, both of which support overall eye health and circulation. If your dog isn’t a fan of greens, try blending spinach into their meals or sneaking it into homemade dog treats for an extra nutrient boost.
Seaweed
Seaweed is a lesser-known superfood for dog eye health, but it’s packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce eye inflammation and keep tear production balanced. It also contains iodine and zinc, two essential minerals that support vision and immune health. Some studies suggest that omega-3s can help prevent dry eyes and even slow down the progression of age-related vision loss. A sprinkle of dried seaweed over your dog’s food is an easy way to give them an extra eye-protecting boost.
Dog Supplements for Dog Eye Health
Ensuring your pup gets the right nutrients is key to maintaining dog eye health. While a balanced diet is a great start, supplements can provide an extra boost to support vision and can help prevent common eye issues and keep those puppy-dog eyes bright and clear. Here at WOOOF, we have a fantastic range of dog treats, food toppers and supplements for dog eye health that’s effortless to integrate into their routine.
Salmon, Bananas & Berries Superfood Dog Bites by Denzel’s
These bite-sized chews from Denzel’s are packed with blueberries which as we’ve already explained are a powerhouse of antioxidants. That means they’ll help fight oxidative stress, which can lead to vision problems. They also contain fresh bananas and apples, adding essential vitamins and fibre to support overall health.
Beef, Broccoli & Blueberry Furr Boost Dog Drink
If your pup isn’t a fan of drinking plain water, this hydrating smoothie is a fantastic way to ensure they’re getting enough fluids while also supporting dog eye health. With blueberries providing eye-loving antioxidants and broccoli adding extra vitamin C, the Furr Boost Drink for dogs is both nutritious and delicious. Try freezing it on a lick mat for an enriching experience or drizzle it over food to encourage picky eaters to clean their bowls.
Salmon, Sweet Potato & Blueberry Furr Boost Dog Drink
Another fantastic option from Furr Boost, this blend contains omega-3-rich salmon, which helps reduce eye inflammation and keeps tear production balanced. The sweet potatoes provide beta-carotene, which supports clear vision, while blueberries protect against cellular damage. Serve it as a puppuccino, freeze it into our WOOOF Pupsicle, or use it as a tasty topper to keep your pup’s meals interesting.
Chicken, Spinach & Chickpeas Protein Dog Bites by Denzel’s
These protein-packed treats are made with real chicken, spinach, and chickpeas, giving your dog a lean energy source while also boosting their immune system. Spinach is rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, two powerful antioxidants that help filter harmful blue light and prevent eye strain. The soft texture makes them ideal for training, and since they’re low-calorie, you don’t have to worry about overindulging your pup.
Restore Topper for Dogs by Maxbone
If your dog needs an extra nutrient boost, this freeze-dried salmon topper is a great choice. It contains wild Alaskan salmon, zucchini, seaweed, broccoli, spinach, sweet potato, blueberries, and turmeric, all of which contribute to dog eye health by providing essential vitamins, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids. Just sprinkle it over your dog’s regular food or onto a lick mat to add an extra layer of flavour and nutrition to their diet.
Chicken Bone Broth Gravy Food Topper for Dogs by Hackney Dog House
Bone broth is loaded with nutrients that support dog eye health, including glycine, collagen, and essential minerals. These ingredients help maintain strong eye tissue, promote hydration, and support overall well-being. Since this topper is high in protein and gentle on sensitive stomachs, it’s a great choice for dogs of all ages. Simply pour it over their food or mix it into their favourite treat like dog-friendly peanut butter or natural yoghurt before slathering it over their lick mat.
Golden Paste Turmeric Topper by Golden Paste Co.
Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great natural support for dog eye health. The curcumin in turmeric may help with conditions like uveitis, conjunctivitis, dry eye, glaucoma, and cataracts, reducing inflammation and preventing further damage. The Golden Paste Turmeric Topper is already pre-mixed so it’s super easy to use, just squeeze the recommended amount onto your dog’s food and let them enjoy the benefits.
Boosterz Super Boost Natural Supplement for Dogs
Finally, this daily supplement from Boosterz is packed with spirulina, seaweed, and rosehips, all of which provide key nutrients for dog eye health. Spirulina and seaweed are rich in omega-3s, which help prevent dry eyes and inflammation, while rosehips are full of vitamin C to strengthen the immune system.
When To Call the Vet
As much as we try to keep our pups’ eyes clean and healthy, sometimes things go beyond what we can manage at home. It’s our job as pet parents to know when something doesn’t seem quite right, because while a little bit of eye gunk in the morning is normal, persistent or unusual symptoms could mean something more serious. If you notice any of the following signs, don’t hesitate to call your vet.
- Excessive Discharge or Pus – A little morning “eye bogie” is normal, but if your dog has constant, thick, yellow, or green discharge, it could be a sign of infection.
- Redness or Swelling – If your pup’s eyes look inflamed, irritated, or swollen, this could indicate an allergy, conjunctivitis, or even a more serious condition.
- Cloudiness or a Change in Eye Colour – A hazy or cloudy appearance can be a warning sign of cataracts, glaucoma, or other vision issues.
- Frequent Pawing or Rubbing – If your dog is constantly rubbing their eyes, they may be experiencing discomfort, pain, or irritation.
- Squinting or Keeping an Eye Closed – This can be a sign of an injury, infection, or something stuck in the eye that needs professional attention.
- Sudden Vision Changes – If your dog is bumping into furniture, acting disoriented, or struggling to see in low light, it’s time for a vet check-up.
When it comes to dog eye health, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. If something seems off, don’t wait and give your vet a call and get your pup the care they need. Their eyes are their window to the world, and it’s up to us to keep their vision as clear and healthy as possible.
Conclusion
Your dog’s eyes do so much more than just melt your heart with their puppy-dog stares, they help them navigate the world, play with their favourite enrichment toys, and lock eyes with you in those special moments of connection. It’s why keeping up with dog eye health is so important, whether it’s simply avoiding gunky build-up and tear stains and keeping a close eye on infections and deterioration.
With a simple routine like regular eye cleaning, a nutrient-rich diet, and knowing when to call the vet, you can keep your dog’s vision sharp and their eyes healthy. Here at WOOOF, we’ve got everything you need to stay on top of dog eye health. From gentle eye wipes that make daily cleaning a breeze to food toppers and supplements packed with vision-boosting ingredients, we make it easy to give your pup the best eye care possible.
The Author: Charlotte Harris
Charlotte has been a writer and dog owner her whole life, so combining these two things together is a dream come true. Her greatest love is her oversized Golden Retriever, Milo, who has a love of tough chews and anything filled with peanut butter!
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Why does my dog wake up with tear stains?
Tear stains are usually caused by excessive tearing, which can be due to genetics, blocked tear ducts, allergies, or even diet. Breeds with shallow eye sockets, like Pugs or Maltese, are more prone to them. While mild staining is normal, keeping your pup’s face clean with eye wipes for dogs can help prevent buildup. If the stains are getting worse or smell bad, it might be worth a vet visit to rule out infections.
How often should I clean my dog’s eyes?
Depends on the dog! Some pups barely need it, while others (looking at you, Bulldogs and Poodles) need daily wipe-downs to prevent irritation and tear stains. A quick clean with dog eye wipes a few times a week can help keep things fresh and gunk-free.
What’s the best way to support my dog’s eye health long-term?
We suggest keeping their eyes clean with gentle wipes and feeding them nutrient-packed food toppers for vision support. And of course, always watch for any signs of irritation or vision changes. Regular vet check-ups also help catch any issues before they become serious. A little daily care goes a long way in keeping those puppy-dog eyes bright and healthy.
