Recurrent Conjunctivitis in Dogs: Causes and Prevention

Conjunctivitis in dogs is a common eye condition causing inflammation of the conjunctiva, the delicate membrane lining the eyelids and covering the eyeball. Some dogs, especially certain breeds, can suffer recurrent bouts that cause discomfort, redness, discharge, and sometimes vision issues.

This article explains the causes of recurrent conjunctivitis in dogs, how to recognise symptoms early, the treatment options available, and practical steps you can take to prevent repeated flare-ups and protect your dog's eye health with informed lifestyle management.

What is conjunctivitis in dogs?

Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva due to irritation or infection. The conjunctiva keeps eyes moist, elastic, and protected, but when inflamed, it becomes red, sore, and may secrete mucus or pus. It can affect one or both eyes and is uncomfortable for your dog.

Causes of recurrent conjunctivitis in dogs

Recurrent conjunctivitis often signals an underlying chronic issue, such as allergies, autoimmune diseases, anatomical abnormalities affecting the eyelids or eyelashes, or chronic dry eye syndrome that reduces tear production causing ongoing irritation. Common causes include:

• Allergies: Environmental allergens like pollen, dust, smoke, or flea bites can cause repeated allergic conjunctivitis attacks.
• Infections: Bacterial or viral infections may persist or recur if not fully treated or if the dog is re-exposed.
• Anatomical issues: Breeds with protruding eyes, such as the pug puppies, may have eyelid or eyelash problems that constantly irritate the eye.
• Dry eye syndrome: Insufficient tear production leads to dry, irritated eyes prone to infection.
• Autoimmune conditions: The immune system may attack eye tissues, causing chronic inflammation.

Signs your dog has conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis symptoms are usually quite obvious and include:

• Red or pink eyes with swollen, sore-looking conjunctiva.
• Sticky, gummy, or crusty discharge that may cause the eyes to close, especially during sleep.
• Constant tearing or weeping eyes.
• Clear discharge usually indicates allergies, whereas yellow or green discharge suggests bacterial infection.
• Excessive pawing or scratching of the eyes, risking further damage.

Treatment options for conjunctivitis

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may involve:

• Antibiotic eye drops or ointments: For bacterial infections.
• Antihistamines or steroids: To manage allergies and inflammation.
• Immune-modulating drugs: For autoimmune-related conjunctivitis.
• Surgical intervention: In cases of anatomical abnormalities like eyelid malformations or blocked tear ducts.

Early veterinary diagnosis is crucial to ensure the correct treatment and avoid complications. Persistent or recurrent conjunctivitis cases may require ongoing management.

How to prevent recurrent conjunctivitis flare-ups

For dogs prone to recurrent eye infections, preventing flare-ups centres on proactive care and managing underlying issues. Here are key steps you can take:

1. Maintain eye hygiene: Regularly clean your dog’s face and eyes gently with a damp cloth to remove discharge and dirt, and keep bedding and toys clean.
2. Avoid exposure to irritants: Protect your dog from smoke, dust, perfumes, and other airborne irritants that may cause eye inflammation.
3. Trim facial hair: In breeds with long fur around the eyes, such as certain cocker spaniel puppies, keeping hair trimmed helps prevent fur rubbing and irritation.
4. Identify and manage allergies: Work with your vet to pinpoint allergenic triggers—whether environmental or dietary—and reduce exposure.
5. Prevent eye trauma: Stop behaviours like hanging the head out of car windows, which can dry out eyes or introduce foreign bodies that cause irritation and infection.
6. Use protective devices: An Elizabethan collar can prevent eye-rubbing or scratching during recovery phases to avoid further injury.
7. Regular veterinary check-ups: Ongoing monitoring allows early detection of problems, adjustments in treatment, and management of chronic conditions like dry eye syndrome.
8. Treat underlying health issues promptly: Autoimmune diseases or anatomical defects should be investigated and managed by your vet to prevent recurrent conjunctivitis.

By combining vigilance, hygiene, allergen control, and professional veterinary care, you can significantly reduce the incidence of recurrent conjunctivitis and keep your dog’s eyes comfortable and healthy.

What if my dog has protruding eyes like a pug?

Breeds such as the pug are especially prone to conjunctivitis due to the shape and prominence of their eyes, which makes them vulnerable to injury and foreign bodies. For these breeds, extra care is essential:

• Regular eye inspections and cleaning.
• Avoid exposure to dusty or windy environments.
• Prevent access to irritants and minimise activities that risk eye trauma.
• Consult your vet for possible protective treatments and early intervention if symptoms appear.

When to see your vet

If you notice persistent redness, swelling, discharge, or your dog scratching their eyes frequently, seek veterinary advice promptly. Recurrent conjunctivitis warrants thorough examination to identify underlying causes such as infections, allergies, or anatomical concerns requiring specialised management.

Early diagnosis and treatment reduce discomfort and prevent complications like corneal ulcers or vision loss.

Whether your dog is young or elderly, managing eye health carefully is vital to maintain their quality of life and happiness.

Remember, responsible pet ownership includes recognising health issues early and working closely with your vet to provide the best care for your four-legged friend.

For puppies, young dogs, or adult canines, prioritising eye hygiene and avoiding irritants helps lower the risk of conjunctivitis flare-ups and supports long-term ocular health.