Poor Eyesight in Dogs

Poor eyesight in dogs may be caused by old age, but may also be due to accidents or other medical conditions. Canines can adapt to not being able to see, as they will rely on their other senses. However, if possible, the problem should be detected and treated.

Causes of Poor Eyesight in Dogs

Generally speaking, dogs have poor eyesight when compared to humans. Dogs don’t see as many colors as humans, but they are able to get by using their other senses and may be able to identify movement. Dogs may also be considered nearsighted, but they are able to see better than humans during nighttime.

However, some dogs may have poor eyesight due to a series of problems.

Dogs that have vision problems may be senior dogs or may be affected by a medical condition such as:

  • Cataract
  • An eye infection
  • Glaucoma or increased pressure in the eye
  • A foreign object that is stuck in the eye
  • An injury to the eye

There are also other conditions that may determine temporary or permanent vision impairment.

Some dog breeds are also more prone to developing vision problems.

How to Detect Poor Eyesight in Dogs

A dog with poor eyesight can present a number of symptoms such as frequent bumping into doors or furniture and having reduced activity.

In time, the dog should be able to adapt to his poor eyesight, but during the first weeks, he will be having a difficult time, until he learns the position of furniture and how to get by in the house or outdoors.

You may also find out if your pet has poor eyesight if you move in front of him and he won’t react in any way.

When looking at the eyes, you may notice some irregularities or even excessive tears or pus accumulated in the area.

Treatment for Poor Eyesight

The treatment for the vision problems of dogs may vary according to the condition causing the poor eyesight.

The treatment may be a cure of antibiotics to clear a possible infection, but may also be eye drops that will require daily application.

In some cases (i.e. cataract) there may be need for surgery. If the dog is affected by glaucoma, surgery may be possible in some cases, but in others, there is not much you can do.

Ideally, the total loss of vision should be prevented if possible.

As mentioned before, dogs are able to adapt if they lose their vision and will rely on their sense of smell and hearing to be able to move and survive. However, if your dog has vision problems you can also facilitate his access in the house by building ramps and making sure you don’t move the furniture. Your dog will learn the position of the furniture and will be able to move around judging by his memory and hearing.

 

Comments