Dog Eye Boogers: When to Worry About Them?

November 18, 2019
dog eye boogers

Dog Eye Boogers: A Comprehensive Guide to Canine Eye Health

Waking up with crusty eyes is an unpleasant experience for anyone, and it’s no different for our canine companions. Those annoying eye boogers in dogs, also referred to as eye gunk or dog eye discharge, can be a common occurrence for dogs. And while mostly harmless, they can sometimes signal underlying issues. 

Read on to explore the different types of eye boogers in dogs. What are their causes, when they might be cause for concern, and the best ways to care for your dog’s eye health.

Why do Dogs get Eye Boogers ? Are they normal for dogs?

dog eye boogers on a normal dog

Eye boogers are normal, until they’re not.

In the realm of canine eye health, a certain amount of eye discharge is considered normal. In fact, in some dog breeds eye boogers are somewhat par for the course. 

Throughout the day, dogs produce tears to lubricate their cornea and conjunctiva. These tears drain down tear ducts.  However, various substances like mucus, dust, and oil can accumulate, leading to the formation of eye boogers. This is a natural, harmless process – and can be easily solved by gently wiping your dog’s eyes with homemade Banixx Pet Wipes.

In other words, for dogs, eye boogers are normal… until they’re not.

Different Types of Dog Eye Boogers

PetMD identifies five common types of dog eye discharge, each potentially indicative of underlying conditions:

A Little Goop or Crust

veterinarian care for dog ear infectionsOccasionally, this can be a combination of dried tears, oil, and mucus that didn’t drain through tear ducts. It’s usually normal, clear, or slightly reddish-brown in color, and most seen after sleep. To treat, simply wash your hands and gently wipe away with a cloth or gauze soaked in warm water.

On the other hand, should your dog’s eye show any signs of redness or signs of discomfort, it’s time to consult your veterinarian. Discomfort may manifest itself as your dog rubbing his eyes, blinking excessively or squinting.

Watery Eyes

Excessive tearing, known as epiphora, can result from tear ducts not working properly.  There’s a “log jam” of tears. If left untreated, these overly abundant tears can cause the skin around your dog’s eyes to become infected and/or smelly. The resultant build-up of moisture and the warmth of your dog’s skin are fertile areas for infection.

Epiphora can be caused by a myriad of underlying problems, ranging in in severity from 

  • a foreign object being stuck in the eye, or 
  • eyelashes growing where they shouldn’t be, or 
  • more acute serious conditions like conjunctivitis and even glaucoma.

Reddish-brown Tear Stains

poodle with eye stains

Dogs with poodle stains may need weekly application.

These stains, commonly known as poodle stains, are not typically a cause for concern. They can, however, provide a breeding ground for infections as we mentioned above. Keeping the area clean and dry is essential. One of the easiest, safest, pain-free methods to do this is with Banixx Pet Care: simply moisten a sterile gauze with Banixx and wipe away! Be sure to wash your hands before and after and don’t overuse any gauze wipe.  These wipes may contain infection or dirt so it’s best to dispose of them safely and promptly. 

Remember – although this type of eye infection is generally just a cosmetic concern, do contact your veterinarian if you notice any of the following:

  • An increase in the amount of tear staining.
  • A change in the appearance of your dog’s tear staining.
  • Your dog’s eyes become red or painful.

 White-Gray Discharge

Chronic dry eyes, or keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), can lead to a grayish-white discharge. 

When a dog experiences chronic dry eyes, they suffer a dramatic reduction in tear production and natural lubrication. To make up for those lost tears, the eye will then begin producing more mucus. It results in a discharge that’s grayish white in color.

KCS requires veterinary attention as it can cause irritation, infections, the formations of ulcers, and even blindness. Thus, if your dog’s eyes are filled with grayish white discharge, Time Out! it’s time to take them to your vet.

Yellow or Green Eye Boogers in your Dog’s Eyes

Pink Eye Treatment For Dogs

Dog with Conjunctivitis

Typically, yellow or green eye boogers are a symptom of an eye infection like conjunctivitis, nonetheless, it may also indicate systemic illnesses.

Conjunctivitis: This occurs when the mucus membranes of your dog’s eyes become inflamed. Besides your dog developing yellow or green eye boogers, conjunctivitis presents in other ways.  For example he may have red eyes, swelling around the eyes, or general discomfort followed by pawing at their face.

Systemic Illness: Occasionally, symptoms that appear to be an eye infection may be an indication that your dog has a systemic illness.  In this list are such illnesses such as respiratory system distress or nervous system disorders.

Again, we must stress. Consult with your veterinarian. 

Dog Eye Booger Treatment

As we’ve described, while a certain amount of eye discharge is normal, excessive green or yellow discharge clearly requires attention. 

If your dog shows signs of discomfort, bloodshot eyes, or a foul smell, consult your veterinarian promptly. Early intervention is crucial for dog eye health.

How to Safely Clean Dog Eye Boogers with Banixx

banixx pet spray

Banixx Pet care spray 8oz

Whether your dog’s eye boogers are normal or indicative of a more serious underlying issue, proper cleaning of  your dog’s is essential. 

Banixx Pet Care is a clinically proven solution that’s trusted as an eye cleaner for dogs. It’s antibacterial and antifungal, ensuring a thorough dog eye cleaner process without any negative effects.

Application: Liberally apply Banixx to a sterile gauze pad and wipe the affected area at least once per day. Sterile gauze is preferred over cotton balls to avoid fibers getting caught in eyelashes.

Frequency: Apply Banixx as often as needed. As the pet parent, you are the best judge of your dog’s eye cleaning requirements.

Banixx can safely be used in conjunction with any other prescribed medications, providing a potent combination for addressing eye conditions.

Clear-Eyed Companionship with Banixx Pet Care

Understanding the types of dog eye boogers – and their potential causes – is crucial for maintaining your dog’s eye health. Always remember: while some eye discharge is normal, changes in color, consistency, or accompanying symptoms should prompt a visit to the vet. 

Regular cleaning with a non-toxic solution like Banixx Pet Care keeps their eyes clean and healthy.  But it also gives you a view of any potential issues as soon as they crop up. With the help of Banixx you can enjoy clear-eyed companionship for years to come.

Banixx Dog Blog

Of course, you already know to be cautious when it comes to your dog’s health – otherwise you wouldn’t be reading this! That’s why we hope you’ll come back to our blog to learn more about how to keep your four-legged friend happy and healthy.  If on the other hand, you are interested in how to maintain your dog’s nails/claws, or handle an ear infection, we cover that too.  Interested in more quirky items ? such as how long can a dog go without peeing, yep, we have that…or Why does my dog drink from a toilet?  Yes, delve into those areas for you too!

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