Dog Scratching Eyes: What It Means & How to Help

Whether they’re wide open during a squirrel chase, narrowed in concentration while digging into dinner, or sweetly requesting a cuddle, your dog’s eyes make for one adorable feature. But what if you notice them pawing at their eyes or continually rubbing their face against the furniture or floor? Dogs scratching their eyes can indicate a few potential problems, ranging from allergies to injury. Fortunately, with a few easy remedies and proactive measures, you can readily restore your pup’s irritated eyes and protect them from future trouble. Treatment options abound, but the appropriate path depends on the cause.

What Makes Dogs Scratch Their Eyes?

A dog’s vital organs (like the heart and lungs) reside deep within the body, protected by the ribcage. The eyes, on the other hand, are exposed to the world—and all its potential irritants. The “dog itching eyes” dilemma usually stems from one of three root causes.

#1 Allergies

Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies. Allergies blossom from myriad sources, which makes them a tough nut to crack. Some common culprits include¹:

• Pollen (from grass or flowers)
• Airborne mold
• Dust mites
• Pet care products
• Food items

Since potential irritants lurk around every corner, allergies are a common cause of itchy eyes. When allergens infiltrate your pup’s eyes, they can trigger a slew of unpleasant symptoms, such as¹:

• Itching
• Redness
• Watery discharge
• Swelling of the eyelid
• Persistent squinting
• Light sensitivity

Allergies don’t just affect the eyes—they can also lead to itchy paws on dogs, causing discomfort and excessive licking. Some breeds (like boxers, labrador retrievers, and cocker spaniels), are predisposed to allergies. If you’re the proud pet parent of an allergy-prone breed, remain extra vigilant.

#2 Infection

In addition to allergens, your dog’s eyes can develop infections. Infections occur when bacteria, viruses, or fungi invade the ocular tissue. These pests can aggravate the eyelid, the conjunctiva (the pink skin surrounding the eyeball), or the white of the eye itself.² If your dog contracts an infection, you’ll likely notice some combination of the following symptoms (alongside scratching):

• Discolored drainage leaking from the eye (often yellow or green)
• Crusting in or around the eye
• Red and swollen eyes or eyelids
• Squinting or refusal to open the eye

As soon as these signs appear, it’s time to take action—an untreated infection can permanently damage your dog’s vision. Infection shares many symptoms with allergies, so it can be tough to tell them apart. As a general rule, if symptoms arise in both eyes, you’re likely looking at allergies. If only one eye appears troubled, however, an infection’s probably to blame. If you think your dog may have an infection, consult with your veterinarian. Another condition that shares some symptoms with infection is known as cherry eye. It occurs when a tear gland wanders from its proper position within a dog’s third eyelid.² The prolapsed gland grows swollen and inflamed, producing an alarming red blob in the eye. Since cherry eye requires different treatment than infection (anti-inflammatory drugs or surgery), you’ll want to rule it out with the help of a vet before starting infection treatment.

#3 Wounds

Dogs have highly adventurous spirits and relish the chance to explore their surroundings. While this leads to much fun and frolicking, it also puts their eyes in harm's way. When exploring, dogs charge ahead face first and risk the following injuries:

• Corneal ulceration – A corneal ulceration is a deep cut or sore on the cornea, and it usually results from foreign object trauma or exposure to toxic substances (like exhaust fumes).³
• Punctures – Occasionally, sharp debris (like thorns and twigs) can poke a hole in the cornea, producing instant pain and swelling.
• Eyelid injuries – While eyelids protect more sensitive ocular components, they can easily sustain trauma from branches or roughhousing between fellow canines.

If they sustain an injury to the eyeball, dogs may start constantly pawing at their peepers (which, unfortunately, worsens their irritation). Sometimes, even subtle changes (like eyelash overgrowth) can produce discomfort down the road.⁴ If your dog injures their eyeball, they’ll undoubtedly partake in some excessive scratching. Their eyes will likely appear:

• Bloodshot
• Watery
• Cloudy
• Bulbous
• Partially or fully closed

Any eye wound requires prompt attention from a vet as they can quickly lead to vision loss and further troubles if left unaddressed.

How to Treat Scratchy Eyes

Now that we’ve pulled back the curtain on eye irritation, let’s talk about how to soothe away the urge to scratch. Your pup’s particular treatment path depends on the source of the discomfort.

#1 Alleviating Allergies

Allergic reactions occur when the body overreacts to harmless materials, such as pollen. During its disproportionate response, the body unleashes a chemical called histamine. In the appropriate amount, histamines help by sounding the alarm and warning other cells of an invasion.⁵ But excessive histamine levels produce the infamous cocktail of allergy symptoms we all know and loathe. If allergies are to blame for your pup’s eye-pawing ways, you have a few options at your disposal:

• Antihistamines – Antihistamines make an excellent first line of defense. They come in both oral and eye-drop form (your vet can advise on the ideal route). Since drops race straight to the source, they tend to excel at itchy eye relief.
• Eye wash – After a long day bounding around the yard, your dog’s eyes can accumulate a coating of debris and itch-inviting irritants. Keep peepers pristine with Vetericyn Plus Antimicrobial Eye Wash. It gently flushes away contaminants and restores comfort.
• Anti-inflammatory drugs – A red and swollen conjunctiva calls for a little extra help. Your vet may prescribe anti-inflammatory medicine (in either oral or eye drop form) to calm the situation.
• Steroids – For severe cases, short-term steroid use can greatly reduce troublesome symptoms. Usually prescribed in drop form, steroids provide rapid relief but carry the risk of side effects, such as energy loss, elevated thirst, and nausea.⁶ Use sparingly under the direction of your vet.

Since allergens love to hitchhike on fur, a spick and span coat helps keep itchy eyes at bay. Bathe your pup often with a high-quality pet shampoo full of soothing ingredients that relieve hot spots and dermatitis.

#2 Eliminating Infections

Dog eye infections can be nerve-wracking. Fortunately, most respond well to treatment. If you suspect your dog has an infection and symptoms don’t lessen within 24 hours,⁷ you should seek veterinary attention. While the particular course of action depends on the cause, treatment options include:

• Antibiotic drops – The first line of defense, antibiotics combat bacterial and fungal growth on the eye and beneath the eyelid.
• Artificial tears – Since infections often dry out the eye (and invite incessant scratching), restoring moisture helps lubricate the eye and promote healing.
• Oral antibiotics – In severe cases, especially those affecting the eyelid, your vet may prescribe oral antibiotics for generalized infection-fighting.

While most infections clear up quickly with treatment, they aren’t a cakewalk for your pup. Spare them future itching by taking preventative measures, such as:

• Mowing and weeding – Tall grass and underbrush harbor heaps of contaminants. Minimize exposure during outdoor play by regularly trimming foliage.
• Grooming face fur – Long fur easily plays host to bacteria, and it’s a short jump to the eyeball. Routine grooming keeps face fur from becoming an itchy eye hotbed.
• Keeping windows shut while driving – Pups love to stick their head out the windows during a drive, but rushing wind easily deposits debris into the eyeball.

During blustery weather, pay special attention to your dog’s eye care routine: Clean your dog’s eyes and keep them moisturized.

#3 Healing Wounds

If your dog experiences acute eye trauma and exhibits alarming symptoms, seek prompt medical attention. Most eye injuries won’t improve on their own, and more serious lesions require specialized treatment. After an exam, your vet will likely recommend one of the following options, depending on the wound’s severity:

• Anesthetic and antibiotic eye drops – Often an initial measure, these medicated pet eye drops take the edge off while quelling any accompanying infection.
• Contact lenses – To allow for healing, your vet may prescribe protective contact lenses that shield the outer eye while the body does its healing work.
• Surgery – Complicated ulcers, or deep foreign object penetration, require surgical intervention. The specific procedure depends on injury type and severity.

During the recovery period, your pup may need to do some time in a recovery cone or inflatable collar. They won’t always appreciate it, but the cone promotes healing by shielding the eye from further scratching and trauma.

All Eyes on Vetericyn

While you can’t keep a boisterous pup from dashing through the yard, you can relieve the itchy eyes they acquire during their exploits. With regular washes and proper maintenance, your pup can sport clean peepers while exploring to their heart’s content. At Vetericyn, we understand that nothing beats a thriving pup’s radiant energy. Their precious charm lends our lives endless richness. That’s why we set out to craft a collection of premium pet health products to enhance their quality of life and longevity. From our nutrient-packed dog supplements to our ultra-soothing pet hot spot spray, our solutions cover the full spectrum of pet health. Discover the Vetericyn difference: Explore our pet care products today.

Reviewed by C. Scott Van Winkle

Scott has been with Innovacyn for the past 11 years and has been working within the Burlingame portfolio of companies for the past 23 years. Scott brings a diverse background to Innovacyn. With an upbringing as the 5th generation on his families cattle ranch, Scott has a passion for animal health and the continuous improvement surrounding agricultural practices. Scott earned marketing and business management degrees from the University of Idaho and holds an Executive MBA from Pepperdine University.

Sources:

1. Townsgate Pet Hospital. Understanding Eye Allergies in Dogs. https://www.townsgatepethospital.com/blog/understanding-eye-allergies-in-dogs-townsgate-pet-hospital
2. PetMD. Dog Eye Problems. https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/evr_dg_eye_problems_in_dogs
3. VCA Animal Hospitals. Corneal Ulcers in Dogs. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/corneal-ulcers-in-dogs
4. VCA Animal Hospitals. Distichia or Distichiasis in Dogs. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/distichia-or-distichiasis-in-dogs
5. Medline Plus. Histamine: The Stuff Allergies are Made Of. https://medlineplus.gov/medlineplus-videos/histamine-the-stuff-allergies-are-made-of/
6. VCA Animal Hospitals. Steroid Treatment - Effects in Dogs. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/steroid-treatment-long-term-effects-in-dogs
7. American Kennel Club. Dog Eye Infections: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dog-eye-infections/