Will Dogs With Long Eyelashes Suffer Eye Problems

Dogs with particularly long eyelashes or facial hair may indeed experience various eye problems if proper care isn’t taken. While those adorable furry faces with hair cascading over their eyes might look cute, this aesthetic feature can lead to significant health issues for our canine companions. Let’s explore the relationship between long eyelashes, facial hair, and canine eye health.

How Long Hair Affects Canine Eye Health

Many dog breeds, particularly Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos, Maltese, and other long-haired breeds, naturally have hair that grows over their eyes. This hair isn’t just a cosmetic concern—it can cause real problems if not properly managed.

According to veterinary experts, dogs with long hair in front of their eyes frequently suffer from eye issues. The hair often gets into the eyes, causing significant irritation. This constant irritation can lead to more serious conditions if left unaddressed.

Common Eye Problems in Long-Haired Dogs

Dogs with excessive facial hair around the eyes commonly experience:

1. Chronic irritation – Hair constantly rubbing against the cornea creates ongoing discomfort
2. Excessive tearing – The eye produces more tears to try to flush out the irritant
3. Eye infections – Bacteria can build up in the moist environment created by tears and hair
4. Corneal ulcers – Persistent scratching from hair can damage the cornea’s surface
5. Tear staining – Reddish-brown stains develop on the fur beneath the eyes due to constant tearing

Can Dogs Go Blind From Untrimmed Facial Hair?

A common concern among pet owners is whether untrimmed facial hair can lead to blindness. While complete blindness is rare as a direct result of facial hair alone, untreated eye conditions that develop from hair irritation can potentially lead to vision impairment.

For example, if hair constantly irritates the eye and causes a corneal ulcer that becomes infected, this could potentially progress to more serious vision problems if left untreated. Additionally, chronic inflammation can lead to conditions like superficial pigmentary keratitis, which can affect vision over time.

Superficial Pigmentary Keratitis

Superficial pigmentary keratitis is a condition seen frequently in certain breeds, particularly those with prominent eyes and facial hair. This condition involves pigment deposits on the cornea, often resulting from chronic irritation.

As Dr. Jeff Nichol, a residency-trained veterinary specialist notes, advanced cases may require specialized treatment such as superficial radiation. This highlights the importance of addressing eye problems promptly, as they can progress to conditions requiring significant medical intervention.

Signs Your Dog May Be Suffering From Eye Problems

It’s important to recognize when your dog might be experiencing eye discomfort. Watch for these signs:

– Excessive tearing or watery eyes
– Frequent squinting or blinking
– Pawing at the eyes
– Redness in or around the eyes
– Cloudy appearance to the eye
– Visible third eyelid
– Changes in behavior (bumping into objects, hesitancy on stairs)
– Brown tear staining on facial fur

The Case of Shih Tzus and Watery Eyes

Shih Tzus are particularly prone to eye problems related to their facial structure and hair. Many Shih Tzu owners report chronic issues with watery eyes. This breed often suffers from:

– Entropion (inward-turning eyelids)
– Distichiasis (abnormal growth of eyelashes)
– Exposure keratopathy (due to prominent eyes)
– Tear duct abnormalities

These anatomical factors, combined with long facial hair, create a perfect storm for eye problems. One pet owner reported, “My Shih Tzu is always with watery eyes,” which veterinarians confirm can be caused by allergies, infections, eye irritants, or structural problems common to the breed.

Proper Grooming and Care for Dogs with Long Eyelashes

Regular grooming is essential for dogs with long facial hair or eyelashes. Here are some recommended practices:

Grooming Recommendations

1. Regular trimming – Keep hair around the eyes short enough that it doesn’t touch the eyeball
2. Daily cleaning – Gently wipe around the eyes with a damp, clean cloth
3. Professional grooming – Consider regular appointments with a professional groomer familiar with your dog’s breed
4. Proper technique – Use rounded-tip scissors specifically designed for facial grooming
5. Consistency – Maintain a regular grooming schedule rather than waiting until hair becomes problematic

When to Seek Veterinary Care

While proper grooming can prevent many issues, some eye problems require professional medical attention. Consult your veterinarian if you notice:

– Persistent redness or irritation
– Changes in eye appearance
– Squinting or apparent pain
– Cloudy or bluish cornea
– Excessive discharge
– Any sudden changes in vision or behavior

Conclusion

Dogs with long eyelashes or facial hair covering their eyes are indeed at higher risk for eye problems. While these features may be breed standards or considered aesthetically pleasing, they require diligent care to prevent discomfort and potential health issues.

Regular grooming, consistent eye cleaning, and prompt attention to any signs of eye irritation are essential for maintaining your dog’s ocular health. By taking these preventative measures, you can help ensure your long-lashed canine companion maintains healthy, comfortable eyes throughout their life.

Remember that some breeds are genetically predisposed to eye issues, so working closely with both your groomer and veterinarian is the best approach to keeping your dog’s eyes healthy despite their luxurious lashes or facial hair.