Dog Eye Stye: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A dog eye stye is a common condition that can occur in dogs of all breeds, ages, and sizes. It is a painful and uncomfortable condition that can lead to further complications if left untreated. A dog eye stye is similar to a human eye stye, as it is a small, red, and painful bump that appears on the eyelid or around the eye.

Dog eye hygiene is a vital part of canine care and grooming. So it’s vital to always have eye wipes formulated for dog skin as part of your dog grooming kit to avoid your dog getting styes in their eyes or other eye infections.

To give you the lowdown on what you need to know if you think your dog has a stye in their eye, we’ve consulted the best veterinary sources on dog eyelid issues.

The cause of a dog eye stye is typically a bacterial infection, which can occur when dirt or debris gets into the eye or when the eye is irritated or scratched. Other causes may include allergies, autoimmune disorders, or underlying health conditions. Symptoms of a dog eye stye may include redness, swelling, discharge, and discomfort. If left untreated, a dog eye stye can lead to more serious conditions such as a corneal ulcer or even vision loss.

Dog eye styes can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor hygiene, allergies, trauma to the eyelid, or underlying medical conditions. Some breeds, such as pugs and bulldogs, are more prone to developing styes due to their facial structure and their predisposition to eyelid disorders.

Treatment for a dog eye stye typically involves applying warm compresses to the affected area to reduce inflammation and promote drainage. In some cases, antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed by a veterinarian.

It is important to seek veterinary care if a dog develops a stye, as untreated styes can lead to more serious eye infections or even vision loss.

Chalazion and Hordeolum (Stye) In Dogs

Chalazion and hordeolum, commonly known as stye, are two common eyelid disorders that can occur in dogs. Chalazion is a painless lump that is caused by the blockage of an oil gland in the eyelid, while hordeolum is a painful bump that results from an infection of the same gland. Both conditions can occur in dogs of all ages and breeds.

The symptoms of chalazion and hordeolum are similar and include swelling, redness, and tenderness of the eyelid. In some cases, the dog may also experience discharge from the affected eye. These conditions can be diagnosed through a physical examination of the eye by a veterinarian.

Treatment for chalazion and hordeolum typically involves warm compresses to the affected eye to help reduce inflammation and promote drainage. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the underlying infection. In severe cases, surgical removal of the affected gland may be necessary.

Prevention of chalazion and hordeolum can be achieved by keeping the dog’s eyes clean and free of debris. Regular veterinary check-ups can also help detect and treat these conditions early on.

Causes of Dog Eye Stye

Dog eye stye is a common condition that can occur in dogs of all breeds and ages. It is characterized by a small, red bump on the eyelid that may be painful or itchy. There are several possible causes of dog eye stye, including bacterial infections, eye trauma, underlying health conditions, and inflammation of the eyelids.

Bacterial Infections

Bacterial infections are a common cause of dog eye stye. These infections can be caused by a variety of bacteria, including staphylococcus and streptococcus. Bacteria can enter the eye through a scratch or other injury to the eye, or they may be introduced through contaminated objects, such as bedding or toys.

Eye Trauma

Eye trauma can also lead to the development of a dog eye stye. Trauma to the eye can cause damage to the eyelid or the surrounding tissue, which can lead to the formation of a stye. Trauma can be caused by a variety of factors, including scratches, bites, or blunt force trauma. However, an injury is typically not so much a cause of a stye in dogs as what an abscess may be.

Underlying Health Conditions

Underlying health conditions can also contribute to the development of a dog eye stye. Dogs with weakened immune systems or underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes or allergies, may be more susceptible to developing styes. In addition, dogs that are stressed or anxious may be more prone to developing styes.

Inflammation of the Eyelids (Blepharitis)

Inflammation of the eyelids, known as blepharitis, can also contribute to the development of a dog eye stye. Blepharitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including allergies, infections, or autoimmune disorders. Inflammation of the eyelids can cause the oil glands in the eyelids to become blocked, which can lead to the formation of a stye.

Cellulitis 

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin and underlying tissues, which can affect the eyelid area and lead to the development of styes when bacteria invade the eyelid’s oil glands.

Overall, there are several possible causes of dog eye stye, including bacterial infections, eye trauma, underlying health conditions, and inflammation of the eyelids. It is important to seek veterinary care if your dog develops a stye, as treatment may be necessary to prevent complications and promote healing.

Signs and Symptoms of a Stye in Dogs

When dogs develop a stye, which is an infection of the eyelid, you might observe the following signs:

• After 1 to 2 days, the stye typically becomes more noticeable at the edge of the eyelid, possibly causing tearing, sensitivity to light, and a sensation of something being in the eye.
• A small, yellowish spot might appear at the eyelash base, surrounded by redness, swelling, and sometimes hardened area.
• Within a few days, the stye may break open and release discharge, often relieving any pain and leading to the resolution of the condition.

If the stye is internal, symptoms can be similar to a chalazion, characterized by pain, redness, and localized swelling. In some severe cases, this might even be accompanied by fever or chills. The inside of the eyelid might show a raised or yellowish area where the gland is affected. Eventually, an abscess might form, and although rare, it can spontaneously rupture, usually on the inside but sometimes through the skin side of the eyelid, with recurrences being quite common.

Always consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment if you suspect your dog has a stye or is showing any of the above symptoms.

Diagnosis Process

Diagnosing a dog eye stye usually involves a physical examination of the affected eye by a veterinarian. The vet will look for signs of redness, swelling, and discharge around the eye. They may also use a special tool called an ophthalmoscope to examine the inside of the eye.

In some cases, the vet may take a sample of the discharge from the eye to be analyzed in a laboratory. This can help to determine the underlying cause of the eye stye, such as a bacterial or fungal infection.

It is important to note that other eye conditions, such as conjunctivitis or corneal ulcers, can have similar symptoms to a stye. Therefore, it is essential to have a proper diagnosis before starting any treatment.

Overall, if you suspect that your dog has an eye stye, it is best to seek veterinary care promptly to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment Options

There are several medications that can be prescribed by a veterinarian to treat dog eye stye. These include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and corticosteroids. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections that may be causing the stye, while anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation and swelling.

Surgery

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the stye. This is typically done under general anesthesia and involves making a small incision in the eyelid to drain the stye. The procedure is generally safe and effective, but there may be some risks involved, such as bleeding or infection.

Home Remedies

There are several home remedies that can be used to treat dog eye stye. These include warm compresses, tea bags, and herbal remedies such as chamomile or calendula. Warm compresses can help reduce inflammation and swelling, while tea bags and herbal remedies can help soothe the eye and promote healing.

It is important to note that home remedies should not be used as a substitute for veterinary care. If your dog has a stye, it is important to seek veterinary treatment to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

Prevention Strategies

By following these prevention strategies, you can reduce the risk of your dog developing eye stye and ensure their overall eye health.

When to Consult a Vet

If a dog’s eye stye does not improve or worsens after a few days of home treatment, it is best to consult a veterinarian. In addition, if the stye is accompanied by other symptoms, such as redness, discharge, or excessive tearing, it may indicate a more serious condition that requires medical attention.

Some other signs that a dog’s eye stye requires veterinary care include:

• The stye grows larger or becomes more painful;
• The dog is rubbing or scratching the affected eye excessively;
• The dog is experiencing vision problems or discomfort; and
• The stye is affecting the dog’s appetite or behavior.

A veterinarian can perform a thorough examination of the dog’s eye to determine the cause of the stye and recommend appropriate treatment. This may include prescription eye drops or ointments, oral medications, or in some cases, surgery.

It is important to seek veterinary care promptly to prevent the stye from causing further complications or spreading to other parts of the eye.

Long-Term Effects of Dog Eye Stye

A dog eye stye, also known as a hordeolum, is a common condition that affects dogs of all breeds and ages. While it is usually not a serious problem, it can cause discomfort and irritation to the dog. In some cases, it can also lead to long-term effects on the dog’s eye health.

One of the most common long-term effects of dog eye stye is scarring. When the stye is not treated properly, it can lead to the formation of scar tissue on the eyelid. This can cause the eyelid to become thicker and less flexible, which can affect the dog’s ability to blink and protect its eyes from dust and other irritants.

Another long-term effect of dog eye stye is the formation of a chalazion. A chalazion is a small, painless lump that forms on the eyelid as a result of a blocked oil gland. While it is usually not harmful, it can cause the eyelid to become swollen and red, which can be uncomfortable for the dog.

In some cases, dog eye stye can also lead to the development of an infection. If the stye is not treated properly, bacteria can enter the eye and cause an infection. This can lead to more serious problems, such as corneal ulcers or even blindness.

To prevent long-term effects of dog eye stye, it is important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. The veterinarian can prescribe antibiotics or other medications to treat the stye and prevent it from spreading or becoming infected. It is also important to keep the dog’s eyes clean and free from irritants, such as dust or pollen, which can aggravate the stye and make it worse.

Overall, while dog eye stye is usually not a serious problem, it can lead to long-term effects if left untreated. It is important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible to prevent scarring, chalazion, infection, and other potential complications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Final Thoughts

In summary, dog eye styes are a common condition that can be easily treated with proper care and attention. While they may be uncomfortable for your furry friend, they are generally not a serious health concern and can be resolved with simple home remedies or medical treatment.

It is important to monitor your dog’s eyes regularly and seek veterinary care if you notice any signs of infection or discomfort. With proper care, you can help prevent eye styes from developing in the first place.

Here are a few key takeaways to keep in mind:

• Keep your dog’s eyes clean and free of debris to prevent irritation.
• Use gentle, pet-safe eye wipes or drops to clean your dog’s eyes.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals or irritants near your dog’s eyes.
• If you notice any signs of infection or discomfort, seek veterinary care promptly.
• With proper care and attention, your dog can recover from an eye stye quickly and easily.

Meet Your Experts

Tamsin De La Harpe

Author

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.