6 Signs Your Dog’s Vision Might Be Failing Soon

Vision problems can affect many dogs, especially as they age, but dogs of all ages may experience eye issues leading to failing sight. Early recognition of vision decline is essential for timely veterinary care and improving your dog's quality of life.

In this guide, we explore six important signs that your dog’s vision might be deteriorating, providing you with the insights to act responsibly and compassionately.

Changes to Your Dog’s Eye Appearance

One of the earliest noticeable signs of vision issues can be changes in the eyes’ appearance. Look out for cloudiness, a bluish tint, redness, discharge, or crust around the eyes. Conditions like cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy often cause these visible alterations. Early detection through veterinary examination can sometimes allow treatment or management to slow progression.

Difficulty Seeing in Low Light

Your dog may still see well in bright conditions but struggle in dim light or at night. If your dog hesitates to go outside at dusk or dawn or shows reluctance in darker indoor spaces, this might indicate beginning vision loss. Awareness of this subtle sign can help you keep your dog safe and comfortable.

Struggling to Locate Toys or Treats

If your dog, who usually enthusiastically chases toys or finds treats, starts missing them frequently or takes longer to locate them, it may be due to impaired sight. Dogs with declining vision sometimes rely less on sight and more on scent, so a sudden change in how they find objects is worth noting.

Increased Reliance on Their Sense of Smell

Dogs have a strong sense of smell, which they naturally use a lot. However, if your dog seems to sniff around more than usual, especially when searching for toys or treats they once spotted easily, it may suggest they are compensating for poor vision. Observing these behavioural shifts helps provide the care they need.

Signs of Eye Discomfort or Pain

Some eye conditions may cause irritation and pain, even while affecting vision. If your dog frequently paws at their eyes, squints, blinks excessively, or rubs their face against objects, these could be signs of discomfort warranting prompt veterinary attention. Ensuring your dog is pain-free is a crucial aspect of responsible pet care.

Clumsiness and Bumping into Objects

A dog with failing vision may become more clumsy, bump into furniture or walls, and appear uncertain in new environments or after rearrangements at home. While dogs use their memory and other senses to navigate familiar areas, persistent bumping and hesitation are warning signs. Helping your dog adjust, maintaining consistent environments, and seeking veterinary advice is important.

Additional Advice for Owners

It is important to remember that vision loss can be gradual and may not always be obvious until it becomes pronounced. Regular veterinary check-ups, especially for senior dogs, can help catch eye conditions early. If you notice any of the signs mentioned, seek veterinary advice promptly to explore options for diagnosis, potential treatment, or management to enhance your dog's wellbeing.

Responsible pet ownership extends to observing subtle health changes and advocating for your dog's comfort and happiness throughout their life.

For those looking to find a new canine companion or puppy, always seek puppies from reputable breeders or consider adoption to give dogs a loving home.