Will Dogs With Long Eyelashes Suffer Eye Problems

Understanding Canine Eyelash Issues

Dogs with particularly long eyelashes may indeed experience various eye problems. While those adorable long lashes might look charming, they can create complications for our furry friends. Let’s explore the relationship between long canine eyelashes and potential eye health concerns.

Long eyelashes in certain breeds like Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos, Pekingese, and other long-haired dogs can become problematic when not properly maintained. These beautiful features serve a purpose—protecting eyes from debris and sunlight—but when they grow excessively long, they may cause irritation and more serious conditions.

Common Eye Problems Associated with Long Eyelashes

Debris Collection

According to veterinary experts like Amy McCauley, “The super long ones are inclined to catch debris which can then be flickering in the eye all the time.” This constant irritation from trapped dust, pollen, or other particles can lead to chronic discomfort for dogs.

When debris becomes trapped in or around the eye area, dogs may exhibit symptoms such as:
– Excessive tearing
– Frequent pawing at the eyes
– Redness and inflammation
– Squinting or blinking more than usual

Mechanical Irritation

Long eyelashes can physically irritate the eye surface. As McCauley notes, “They also can tickle them a bit.” This constant tickling sensation from lashes brushing against the cornea can cause significant discomfort and potentially lead to corneal abrasions over time.

Distichiasis and Ectopic Cilia

Some dogs develop abnormal eyelash growth patterns that exacerbate problems:

– Distichiasis: A condition where extra eyelashes grow from abnormal locations along the eyelid margin
– Ectopic cilia: Eyelashes that grow through the conjunctiva (inner eyelid surface) and directly contact the cornea

These conditions are particularly common in breeds with long facial hair and can cause severe irritation, corneal ulcers, and chronic discomfort if left untreated.

Breed Predisposition to Eyelash-Related Problems

Certain breeds are more likely to experience eyelash-related eye problems due to their facial structure and hair growth patterns.

Facial Hair vs. Eyelashes

It’s important to distinguish between actual eyelashes and facial hair that grows near the eyes. Many breeds with “long eyelashes” are actually experiencing issues with facial hair falling into their eyes. This hair can cause similar problems to overgrown eyelashes, requiring regular grooming to prevent eye irritation.

Superficial Pigmentary Keratitis

One serious condition that can develop in dogs with chronic eye irritation from long eyelashes or facial hair is superficial pigmentary keratitis (SPK). This condition involves pigment deposition on the cornea due to chronic inflammation.

Dr. Jeff Nichol, a residency-trained veterinary specialist, notes that this condition is particularly concerning in small breed dogs. The chronic irritation from eyelashes or facial hair constantly rubbing against the eye can trigger this inflammatory response.

Signs of SPK include:
– Brown or black pigmentation visible on the surface of the eye
– Chronic redness and irritation
– Increased tearing
– Progressive vision impairment if left untreated

Advanced cases may require specialized treatments, including superficial radiation therapy in severe situations. Early intervention is crucial to prevent permanent damage.

Grooming and Prevention

Proper grooming plays a vital role in preventing eye problems in dogs with long eyelashes or facial hair.

Regular Trimming

For breeds with excessive facial hair around the eyes, regular trimming is essential. This doesn’t mean removing the protective eyelashes themselves but rather keeping the surrounding facial hair at a manageable length.

When trimming around your dog’s eyes:
– Use blunt-tipped scissors designed for facial grooming
– Work in good lighting
– Have someone help hold your dog still
– Consider professional grooming for nervous dogs

Daily Eye Cleaning

Establishing a routine of gentle eye cleaning can help prevent problems:
– Use a veterinarian-approved eye wipe or solution
– Gently wipe from the inner corner outward
– Remove any discharge or debris
– Watch for signs of irritation or infection

Professional Grooming

For breeds particularly prone to eye problems, regular professional grooming every 4-6 weeks can help maintain appropriate hair length around the eyes. Professional groomers are trained to safely trim facial hair without risking injury to the eyes.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

While proper grooming can prevent many issues, some eyelash-related problems require professional veterinary intervention.

Seek immediate veterinary attention if your dog shows:
– Excessive tearing or discharge
– Squinting or keeping the eye closed
– Visible redness or swelling
– Cloudy appearance to the eye
– Pawing persistently at the eye
– Any change in eye color or appearance

Treatment Options for Eyelash Disorders

When abnormal eyelash growth or positioning causes problems, several treatment options exist:

For Distichiasis:
– Cryotherapy (freezing) to destroy the hair follicles
– Electroepilation to permanently remove problematic lashes
– Surgical removal of affected tissue

For Ectopic Cilia:
– Surgical removal is typically required
– May need specialized ophthalmology referral

For Trichiasis (inward-growing normal hairs):
– Medial canthoplasty procedures
– Regular grooming and management

Long-Term Management

For dogs with a genetic predisposition to eyelash problems, long-term management strategies are essential:

Regular Veterinary Check-ups

Schedule routine eye examinations with your veterinarian, especially for breeds prone to eye issues. Early detection of problems can prevent more serious complications.

Consistent Grooming Schedule

Maintain a regular grooming schedule appropriate to your dog’s breed and hair growth rate. Some dogs may need facial trimming every 2-3 weeks to prevent hair from irritating their eyes.

Protective Eye Medications

In some cases, veterinarians may recommend:
– Lubricating eye drops to reduce friction
– Anti-inflammatory medications for chronic irritation
– Antibiotics if secondary infections develop

The Vision Impact Question

Many pet owners wonder if long hair covering a dog’s eyes will affect their vision or cause blindness. While a Shih Tzu or similar breed won’t go blind simply from having hair in front of their eyes, the chronic irritation and potential for secondary conditions can eventually impact vision if left unaddressed.

The primary concerns are:
– Development of corneal ulcers from chronic irritation
– Superficial pigmentary keratitis causing corneal opacity
– Chronic inflammation leading to more serious eye diseases

Proper management through grooming and veterinary care can prevent these vision-threatening complications.

Conclusion

Dogs with long eyelashes or facial hair around the eyes are indeed at higher risk for eye problems. While these features add to their charm and character, they require attentive care to prevent discomfort and serious complications. Regular grooming, careful observation, and prompt veterinary care when issues arise will help keep your dog’s eyes healthy and comfortable.

Remember that breeds with naturally long eyelashes or facial hair have evolved with these features, but our domestic environments may present different challenges than their ancestral habitats. With proper care, these beautiful characteristics can remain a distinctive feature without compromising your pet’s eye health and comfort.