Why Dogs Scratch Their Eyes Constantly

1 Why Dogs Scratch Their Eyes Constantly

1. Causes of Constant Eye-Scratching

1. Abnormal lashes (ingrown or double row) irritate the conjunctiva, causing itch, scratching, tearing, and spasms.

2. Eye inflammation from parasites, bacteria, or viruses (conjunctivitis, keratitis) brings scratching, heavy discharge, tears, and redness; discharge blocks vision and itches.

3. Foreign-body irritation

Lively dogs easily get sand, hair, or insects in the eye while playing—blinking, tearing, scratching follow.

4. Periorbital skin disease

Bacterial, fungal, or parasitic eczema, dermatitis, or mange around the eyes itches and prompts scratching.

2. What to Do

See a vet to find the cause, then treat it specifically. Whatever the cause, fit an Elizabethan collar at once to stop scratching.

1. Ingrown lashes: remove them or use electrolysis/cryotherapy on the follicles.

2. For conjunctivitis/keratitis: neomycin sulfate eye drops plus oral amoxicillin powder; for corneal ulcers, IV fluids at a vet.

3. Foreign bodies: flush with eye wash or have them removed, then use antibacterial drops to prevent infection.

4. Skin disease: get a skin scrape at a vet to identify type, then treat; for severe itch, a vet may okay chlorpheniramine maleate to block allergic itch.

That covers the causes and care for constant eye-scratching. If unsure of the cause, don’t self-medicate—see a vet or consult one first.