Dogs and warts around the eyes: causes and treatments

Warts are a common skin condition in dogs, much like in humans, and the chance of developing them slightly increases as your dog ages. These growths can appear anywhere on your dog’s body and often go unnoticed by your pet. However, when warts develop around the sensitive eye area, they can lead to discomfort, vision problems, and other complications requiring attention.

In this article, we explore the nature of warts around your dog’s eyes, why they form, potential issues they can cause, and the appropriate care and treatment options to keep your cherished pet comfortable and healthy.

A gentle introduction to dog warts

Dog warts, or papillomas, are skin growths caused by infections with canine papillomaviruses. They are viral in nature and vary in size, shape, and texture. Typically, warts are firmly attached to the skin, making them difficult to remove without causing bleeding or irritation.

Importantly, these warts are contagious among dogs but do not transfer to humans or other species. Your dog can catch papillomavirus from direct contact with infected dogs or contaminated objects such as bedding or collars. Infection requires a break in the skin, such as a scratch or minor injury, for the virus to enter the body.

Many healthy dogs, especially younger ones, can clear these warts with their immune systems over a few weeks to months, and often the warts resolve without treatment. However, dogs with weaker immune systems, such as the elderly or immune-compromised, are more susceptible and may require veterinary care.

How do dogs develop warts around their eyes?

Warts develop when the canine papillomavirus infects the skin near or around the eyes. They commonly affect dogs under the age of three, whose immune systems are still developing. However, older dogs can also develop wart-like growths near their eyes which might not be caused by the virus but by other skin conditions and tumours.

Warts may appear as single rounded growths or clusters and are often the same colour as your dog’s skin around the eyes. They might also take the form of small tendrils. Because the virus spreads through the bloodstream, warts may appear in areas beyond the initial point of infection.

The delicate skin around the eyes means these warts can interfere with eyelid function by causing squinting or preventing full closure of the eyes. This can lead to rubbing, irritation, and even damage to the cornea if untreated. Warts at eyelid edges may also cause eyelashes to grow abnormally or turn inward, increasing irritation and discomfort.

Recognising the signs and symptoms

Warts around the eyes can cause visual obstruction or discomfort. You might notice your dog squinting, pawing at its eyes, or rubbing its face against surfaces. On examination, warts may hinder the dog’s ability to fully open or close its eyes. If you see any lumps or growths around your dog’s eyes, especially if they appear black or bleed, have them promptly checked by your vet to rule out tumours or other serious conditions.

Veterinary diagnosis and when to seek help

A veterinarian usually diagnoses warts by a physical examination. In some cases, if the growth looks unusual or does not resemble typical papillomas, a biopsy may be performed to rule out malignant tumours or other skin disorders.

Any wart causing discomfort, interfering with vision, or irritating the eye should be assessed promptly. It’s crucial to prioritise your dog’s comfort and eye health by seeking veterinary advice as soon as possible.

Treatment options for warts near the eyes

If the warts are small, not causing problems, and your dog is otherwise healthy, your vet may recommend monitoring them while your dog’s immune system clears the infection naturally.

However, if the warts obstruct vision, cause pain, or lead to irritation, removal is usually necessary. This typically involves a straightforward surgical procedure performed under sedation or general anaesthetic to gently remove the growths without damaging nearby tissues.

In some cases, antiviral treatments or immune-modulating therapies might be considered to help resolve stubborn warts, although these are less commonly used and require veterinary supervision.

Preventing warts and promoting your dog’s health

While you cannot completely prevent papillomavirus infections, good hygiene and avoiding contact with dogs known to have warts can reduce the risk. Maintaining your dog’s overall health with a balanced diet, regular vet check-ups, and prompt treatment of skin injuries also helps their immune system stay strong to fend off infections.

Remember, when looking for a new dog or puppy, always choose reputable breeders or consider adoption from rescue centres to support responsible pet ownership.

Conclusion

Warts around your dog’s eyes are usually caused by canine papillomavirus and can vary in appearance and impact. While many will clear on their own, warts near the eyes warrant careful attention due to the risk of irritation, discomfort, and vision problems.

If you notice warts around your dog's eyes, ensure a responsible veterinary examination to confirm the diagnosis and discuss the best treatment plan to maintain your dog's wellbeing. Early attention and care will help keep your beloved pet healthy and comfortable.