In this blog post, our vets in Denver will discuss entropion, a common eye issue in dogs. This condition affects numerous breeds and can lead to discomfort, irritation, and even additional eye complications. Let our veterinarians guide you through the symptoms and various treatment choices available for your furry friend.
What is eye entropion in dogs?
Entropion is a genetic condition where a dog's eyelids roll inward. This inward position results in frequent rubbing of the fur and eyelashes against the surface of the eye, leading to pain, conjunctivitis, eye infections, corneal ulcers, and even perforations. In some cases, it can also cause pigment to develop on the cornea, affecting the dog's vision.
Entropion is prevalent in several breeds, including Akita, Basset Hound, Bernese Mountain Dog, Bloodhound, Bulldog, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Clumber Spaniel, Cocker Spaniel, Dalmatian, English Springer Spaniel, English Toy Spaniel, Flat-coated Retriever, Golden Retriever, Gordon Setter, Great Dane, Great Pyrenees, Irish Setter, Japanese Chin, Labrador Retriever, Mastiff, Miniature Poodle, Newfoundland, Old English Sheepdog, Pekingese, Pomeranian, Pug, Rottweiler, Saint Bernard, Shar Pei, Siberian Husky, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Tibetan Spaniel, Vizsla, Weimaraner, and Yorkshire Terrier.
Signs That Your Dog May Have Entropion
Entropion is a condition that can affect dogs from a young age, often before they turn one year old. Dogs with entropion typically exhibit symptoms such as squinting, excessive tearing, and keeping the eyes closed. However, some flat-faced dogs may not show obvious signs of discomfort in certain situations.
Treatment for Entropion in Dogs
Sometimes, puppies can outgrow entropion on their own without needing any treatment. But if it's causing discomfort, a procedure called 'tacking' or temporary eyelid eversion can provide relief for young dogs.
To minimize corneal damage, doctors may prescribe antibiotic ointments as a medical treatment for entropion. However, medications cannot cure the condition. Surgery is necessary to fix the problem.
Entropion Surgery in Dogs - Blepharoplasty
If your puppy's entropion issues persist even after it turns one year old, the veterinarian can perform surgery to correct the problem and relieve your pup's discomfort. The veterinarian can perform two types of surgeries to prevent excessive correction of the condition, which may cause the eyelids to roll outwards. The first surgery involves major correction, followed by minor corrective surgery.
Your pup may need to take medications such as ophthalmic antibiotics or lubricants before and after the entropion surgery to treat any conditions caused by the irritation.
The cost of entropion surgery for dogs can vary based on several factors and typically ranges from $500 to $1,800. Contact your vet for details to determine the exact cost of correcting your pup's eye condition.
Can entropion return after surgery in a dog?
Dog entropion surgery recovery is generally very good, and the condition does not return. That said, recurrence is common in Shar Peis due to excessive skin folds around the eyes.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.
