My dog's eyes are watering a lot, and it looks like she's crying. Is something wrong?

This afternoon, I noticed my dog's eyes were watering quite a bit, and it almost looks like she's crying. She doesn't seem to be in any pain, but the tears don't usually flow like this. Is this something I should be concerned about, or could it be a reaction to something in the environment?

Answer

When your dog's eyes start watering excessively, it could be due to various non-serious causes or indicate something more concerning. Monitoring for additional symptoms can help determine if a vet visit is necessary.

  • Foreign body: Environmental irritants like dust or pollen may cause tearing.
  • Allergies: Like humans, dogs can have allergies that irritate the eyes.
  • Infection: Excessive tearing can sometimes be a sign of an eye infection.
  • Injury: Any trauma to the eye may lead to watering.
  • Blocked tear duct: This can cause tears to overflow instead of draining normally.

It's important to observe if your dog displays other symptoms such as redness, pawing at the eyes, or discharge, which could suggest an underlying problem that needs medical attention. While some causes of watery eyes are benign, others require prompt treatment to prevent complications.

If your dog seems uncomfortable, or if the tearing doesn't improve, consider reaching out to a vet for advice. Book a consultation with one of our veterinarians at Dial A Vet to get professional guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can watery eyes be a sign of an allergy in dogs?

    Yes, watery eyes can be a symptom of allergies. Dogs can react to pollen, dust, molds, or certain foods, causing their eyes to water excessively.

  • When should I worry about my dog's watery eyes?

    If the tearing persists for more than a day, is accompanied by redness, swelling, or if your dog seems in discomfort, consult a veterinarian.

  • Are there home remedies I can try for my dog's watery eyes?

    For mild irritation, a gentle eye rinse with saline solution can help remove irritants. However, if symptoms continue, a vet consult is recommended to rule out more serious conditions.

For further assistance, and if you're concerned about your pet's health, schedule a session with our experienced vets through Dial A Vet.

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