Does your dog’s eye suddenly look droopy? Droopy dog eyes might look cute, but they can be caused by a condition that, in more extreme cases, leads to discomfort, runny eyes, infections, and other problems. Ectropion in dogs is a condition that may look like a droopy eye, but is actually much more.
We spoke to an ACVO board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist to learn more about ectropion in dogs, when it’s a cause for concern, and potential treatment options.
What Is Ectropion in Dogs?
Dr. Andrew Lewin, BVM&S, DACVO, is an Associate Professor of Comparative Ophthalmology in Veterinary Clinical Sciences at the Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine. He explains that “ectropion refers to the positioning of the eyelids (usually the lower eyelid) so that the lid margin rolls outwards, away from the eye.”
This droopy eversion shouldn’t be confused with its opposite. “Entropion refers to (the) positioning of the eyelids so that the lid margin rolls in towards the eye, which often results in contact of the surrounding hair with the eye,” Dr. Lewin says.
While both are common eye conditions, veterinarians see problematic entropion more often than severe ectropion.
The non-protective position of the lower eyelid in some ectropion cases creates hygiene and lubrication issues. This can lead to various secondary problems, including painful irritation, inflammation, and conjunctivitis.
What Causes Ectropion in Dogs?
Dr. Lewin says that ectropion is most commonly breed-related. Big dogs with loose facial skin and droopy eyes are predisposed to this congenital, hereditary condition. They include:
Sometimes dogs develop ectropion later in life, rather than being born with it. Possible causes of acquired ectropion include:
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Injury and subsequent scarring
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Certain eyelid surgeries (such as overcorrection of entropion)
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Chronic eye inflammation
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Eye infections (although this is very uncommon)
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Facial nerve paralysis
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Hypothyroidism
Symptoms of Ectropion in Dogs
Fortunately, many dogs live with the condition without any major problems. “Ectropion is so common in some breeds that it may be considered a ‘normal’ trait,” Dr. Lewin adds.
However, for some dogs, it can be a source of significant discomfort or pain and can lead to serious secondary conditions. Ectropion can also become a bigger problem for senior dogs as they lose muscle tone around the eyelids.
Possible symptoms and secondary conditions ectropion in dogs can cause include:
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Brown tear stains under the eye
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Conjunctivitis
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Discharge
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Keratitis (corneal inflammation)
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Red or inflamed eyes
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Watery eyes
You might notice your dog squinting, blinking excessively, pawing their face, or rubbing it against things if they’re experiencing discomfort.
How Is Ectropion in Dogs Diagnosed?
“Veterinarians often diagnose the condition based on the appearance of the eyelids,” Dr. Lewin says.
While a physical, non-sedated exam is usually enough to diagnose ectropion in dogs, your veterinarian may need to carry out other tests depending on their symptoms to establish any underlying causes and determine the integrity of the cornea .
Treatment for Ectropion in Dogs
Many dogs can live with mild ectropion without it affecting their quality of life. In some cases, your veterinarian may prescribe drops or ointments to keep the eyes lubricated and prevent issues from developing. Your dog may also need antibiotics to clear up infections caused by ectropion.
However, when ectropion causes a buildup of debris in the lower lid, discomfort, or leads to secondary conditions, such as corneal disease (keratitis), veterinarians often recommend corrective surgery.
Dr. Lewin explains surgery can be challenging in certain cases, and referral to a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist should be considered. There are various surgical techniques available to shorten and tighten the eyelid. As with any surgery, these procedures have their risks. “General risks of most eyelid procedures include infection and failure of the procedure to correct the abnormality,” Dr. Lewin says. In rare cases, overcorrection of ectropion can lead to the eyelid position rolling too far inward (entropion).
Prognosis of Ectropion in Dogs
Your dog will have swelling around the eye that can take up to a month to resolve following ectropion surgery. However, the procedures typically have a good outcome. Some dogs have permanent sight damage due to corneal scarring in advanced ectropion cases. However, importantly, they will be pain-free.
For dogs with mild cases, your veterinarian may recommend lifelong use of topical medications to keep the eye lubricated and minimize the risk of infections.
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