Entropion in dogs is an eye condition in which a dog's eyelids roll inwards, causing irritation, pain, and additional eye issues. Today, our Danbury vets explain the condition, its symptoms, and the often necessary surgery that is required.
Eye Entropion in Dogs
Entropion is primarily caused by a genetic abnormality that causes a dog's eyelids to roll inward and likely requires surgery to fix. This inward positioning means that your pup's fur and eyelashes can rub against the surface of the eye. Entropion will often cause your dog pain, conjunctivitis, eye infections, corneal ulcers, or perforations.
In some cases, the development of pigment on the cornea can occur, affecting your dog's vision.
Entropion is a common problem in several breeds including, but not limited to:
- Bulldog
- Akita
- Staffordshire Terrier
- Basset Hound
- Bloodhound
- Toy and Miniature Poodle
- Dalmatian
- Cocker Spaniel
- Pomeranian
- Chesapeake Bay Retriever
- Pug
- Rottweiler
- Shar Pei
- Shih Tzu
- Saint Bernard
- Siberian Husky
- Golden Retriever
- Gordon Setter
- Great Dane
- Great Pyrenees
- Irish Setter
- English Springer Spaniel
- English Toy Spaniel
- Flat-coated Retriever
Signs of Entropion in Dogs
Signs of entropion typically appear early with most dogs being diagnosed before they reach their first birthday.
Squinting, excessive eye watering and holding eyes shut are the most common signs of entropion. Although in some cases flat-faced breeds of dogs will show no outward signs of discomfort.
Treating Entropion in Dogs
Puppies will sometimes grow out of entropion and no treatment will be required. However, if the condition is causing discomfort a procedure known as 'tacking' or temporary eyelid eversion can help to relieve symptoms in young dogs.
Medical treatments can include antibiotic ointments to decrease damage to the cornea, but medications will not resolve the entropion itself. To correct the issue, surgical intervention will be required.
Entropion Surgery in Dogs (Blepharoplasty)
If entropion continues to be an issue as your puppy reaches their first birthday surgery can be performed, to correct the issue and relieve your pup's discomfort.
To avoid over-correcting this condition (leading to the eyelids rolling outward known as ectropion) two surgeries may be performed, the first being the primary (major) correction and the second being a minor corrective surgery.
Before and after the surgery your dog may be prescribed medications such as ophthalmic antibiotics or lubricants to treat conditions resulting from the irritation caused by entropion.
Prognosis for Dogs with Entropion
Following surgery, most dogs recover well and the condition does not return.
That said, recurrence is common in Shar Peis due to their excessive folds of skin around the eyes. Although it is unlikely to return in other breeds, it is still possible.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet for an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition.
