Epiphora in Dogs: Causes, Signs & Effective Treatments

Epiphora in dogs refers to the excessive tear production or watery eyes, often leading to tears overflowing onto the face. This condition can affect dogs of any breed or age but is especially common in certain breeds due to the shape and anatomy of their eyes. Importantly, epiphora is not a disease itself but a symptom indicating underlying issues that require veterinary attention.

Understanding Epiphora in Dogs

Excessive tearing can be caused by a variety of factors including congenital eye conditions, infections, allergies, trauma, or obstructions affecting tear drainage. For example, some dogs suffer from distichiasis, where abnormal eyelashes irritate the eye, or entropion, where eyelids roll inward causing discomfort and additional tearing. Other causes include trauma to the eye, sinus issues, or even tumours near the tear ducts.

Breeds Most at Risk and Responsible Breeding Considerations

Certain breeds have a higher predisposition to epiphora due to their facial and eyelid structure. Responsible ownership includes understanding breed-specific risks and seeking reputable breeders who prioritise health and welfare over appearance.

• Shetland Sheepdog puppies - often affected when young
• Shih Tzu puppies
• Lhasa Apso puppies
• Cocker Spaniel puppies
• Pekingese puppies
• Bulldog
• Dachshund puppies
• Miniature Poodle puppies

Breeds more prone to entropion and therefore at risk of epiphora include:

• Chinese Shar Pei puppies
• Pug puppies
• Mastiff puppies
• Poodles
• Chow Chow puppies
• Labrador Retriever puppies

Furthermore, breeds susceptible to ectropion, where the eyelids turn outwards causing exposure and tearing, include Great Danes, Bloodhounds, and Spaniels.

Recognising the Signs of Epiphora

Early recognition is key to managing epiphora efficiently. Key signs include:

• Excessive tearing or watery eyes causing tear stains, usually reddish-brown due to porphyrin pigment
• Squinting or frequent blinking
• Inflammation, redness, or irritation of the eyes
• Discharge that may be clear, sticky, or crusty
• Loose or sagging skin around the eyes from constant wetness
• Secondary skin infections or odours caused by moisture sitting on the fur

In brachycephalic breeds (flat-faced dogs), abnormalities like enlarged eyelid openings or ectropion often enhance vulnerability to epiphora.

Causes Beyond Breed Predisposition

Besides inherited conditions, epiphora may also occur due to acquired issues such as:

• Sinus infections or rhinitis
• Facial trauma or fractures
• Tumours affecting the eyelids or third eyelid
• Blockages in the tear ducts caused by inflammation or foreign bodies
• Infections or immune-mediated inflammation of the conjunctiva or eyelids
• Corneal ulcers or scratches causing pain and increased tearing
• Glaucoma leading to eye discomfort and tearing

How a Vet Diagnoses Epiphora

A thorough diagnosis begins with a vet taking a detailed medical history and conducting a careful eye examination. They may use tools such as fluorescein staining to detect abrasions on the cornea and may recommend imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRI in complex cases to assess underlying causes near the nose or sinuses.

Surgical exploration might be necessary for definitive diagnosis if non-invasive tests do not reveal the cause. If a foreign body is found blocking the tear ducts, flushing can often resolve the issue.

Treatment and Management Options

Treatment depends on the underlying cause:

• Medications including antibiotics for infections or antihistamines for allergies
• Regular cleaning of the eyes and surrounding skin to prevent irritation and secondary infections
• Surgical correction for anatomical abnormalities like entropion or ectropion
• Removal of foreign bodies or tumours affecting the eyes or tear ducts
• Ongoing management for recurrent or chronic conditions

Prompt and consistent vet care is vital, as untreated epiphora can lead to discomfort, skin infections, and can indicate more serious eye problems.

Living with a Dog Affected by Epiphora

Dogs diagnosed with epiphora need regular veterinary check-ups, often weekly initially, to monitor treatment efficacy and adjust therapy if needed. Even after surgical correction, some dogs may experience recurrent symptoms requiring ongoing care.

Providing a caring home environment, diligent grooming, and timely medical care can greatly improve your dog's comfort and quality of life.

FAQs

Why does my dog have watery eyes all the time?

Quick Answer: Watery eyes in dogs can be caused by allergies, infections, eye injuries, or blockages in their tear ducts leading to epiphora.

Persistent watery eyes often point to irritation or an underlying condition like a blocked tear duct or eyelid abnormalities. Dogs with certain breeds are more prone to this. Seeing a vet promptly is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Can epiphora be cured in dogs?

Quick Answer: While epiphora can often be managed well, the chance of a complete cure depends on the cause — some congenital issues require lifelong care.

For many dogs, treatment can significantly reduce symptoms and improve comfort. Surgical and medical treatments can correct many issues, but in some cases, ongoing management is necessary due to anatomical or chronic problems.

How do vets test for epiphora?

Quick Answer: Vets use eye exams, fluorescein staining, tear duct flushing, and sometimes imaging scans to diagnose causes of epiphora.

The diagnostic process includes evaluating tear production, checking for blockages, examining eyelid structure, and ruling out serious conditions like glaucoma or corneal ulcers.

Where can I find reputable breeders for at-risk breeds?

When looking for a puppy from breeds prone to epiphora such as Shih Tzu or Shetland Sheepdog, seek reputable breeders who perform health screenings and avoid breeding dogs with known eye problems. Responsible breeders prioritise the long-term health and well-being of their dogs to reduce the risk of inherited diseases.

Consider adopting or rescuing if possible, and always ensure your new pet receives a thorough vet check early in their life.

Conclusion

Epiphora in dogs is a manageable condition when identified early and treated appropriately. Knowing which breeds are more at risk, recognising the signs, and seeking veterinary care are vital steps to keeping your dog comfortable and healthy. Regular vet visits, good grooming, and attentive care will help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

If your dog shows consistent watery eyes or tear staining, do not delay in seeking professional advice. Prompt action helps prevent complications and ensures your beloved companion’s eyes stay as healthy as possible.