The adorable, large eyes of brachycephalic breeds — Bulldog, Pug, Boxer, Shih Tzu, and Persian cats — are also vulnerable. Because of their facial structure, these animals are far more prone to certain eye problems than others. The good news is: most issues can be managed if recognized early. Here is what you need to watch for.
Why are these breeds at risk?
In brachycephalic breeds, the eye socket is shallow, which means the eyes protrude more and appear larger. Their short nose structure disrupts tear drainage; facial skin folds and hairs can rub against the cornea. These anatomical features leave the cornea unprotected and susceptible to irritation.
Common eye problems
- Corneal ulcer: An unprotected, drying cornea is easily injured.
- Dry eye (KCS): Tear production or distribution remains insufficient.
- Tear staining and chronic discharge: Tears overflow due to poor drainage.
- Entropion and skin fold hairs: An inward-turning eyelid and hairs rub against the cornea.
- Cherry eye: Prolapse of the third eyelid gland from its normal position; cherry eye is common in dogs.
- Proptosis (eye protrusion): The eye coming out of its socket during trauma; this is an emergency.
Which breeds?
- Dogs: Bulldog, French Bulldog, Pug, Boxer, Shih Tzu, Pekingese
- Cats: Persian, Exotic Shorthair, Himalayan
Signs: what to watch for?
- Constant tearing and staining under the eye
- Squinting, rubbing with a paw
- Redness and cloudiness in the cornea
- Hair near the eyelid touching the eye
- Heavy or colored discharge
Prevention and care
- Gently wipe around the eye every day with a clean, damp cloth.
- Keep the inside of facial folds dry.
- Keep hairs near the eye trimmed short.
- Have regular eye check-ups performed.
- Seek emergency care at the slightest suspicion of an ulcer (squinting, pain).
When to see a veterinary ophthalmologist?
Take every eye complaint in these breeds seriously. Corneal ulcers can deepen rapidly in brachycephalic animals, and eye proptosis is a true emergency. Regular eye examinations and, when necessary, eyelid surgery are the best ways to prevent permanent damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my Pug's or Bulldog's eyes constantly watering?
The flat-nosed structure disrupts tear drainage, and hairs in the facial fold irritate the eye. This is common in these breeds, but there may be correctable causes such as a blocked tear duct or eyelid conformation; it should be evaluated with an examination.
What is proptosis (eye protrusion), and what should I do?
This is when the eye comes out of its socket due to trauma or pressure, and it is an emergency. Cover the eye with a clean, moist cloth to prevent it from drying out and go to a veterinary ophthalmologist immediately without any delay.
What is cherry eye, and does the gland need to be removed?
Cherry eye is the prolapse of the third eyelid gland from its normal position. It is usually surgically repositioned. Complete removal of the gland is not recommended, as it can lead to dry eye.
Can eye problems in these breeds be prevented?
While they cannot be completely prevented, most problems can be managed and serious damage prevented with regular cleaning, care, and early check-ups.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace a veterinary examination. If you have any concern about your companion’s eyes, please consult a veterinary ophthalmologist.
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