Entropion is a condition that occurs in many breeds and causes the pup's eyelids to roll inwards, causing irritation, pain, and other secondary eye problems. Today, our Tigard veterinarians explain more about this common eye condition in dogs, including symptoms and treatment options.
Eye Entropion in Dogs
The genetic disorder entropion makes the dog's eyelids roll inward. This inward positioning causes your dog's fur and eyelashes to frequently rub against the surface of the eye, leading to discomfort, conjunctivitis, eye infections, corneal ulcers, perforations, and, occasionally, the growth of pigment on the cornea that impairs your dog's vision.
Entropion is a common problem in several breeds including Toy and Miniature Poodle, Akita, Staffordshire Terrier, Basset Hound, Bloodhound, Bulldog, Dalmatian, Cocker Spaniel, English Springer Spaniel, English Toy Spaniel, Flat-coated Retriever, Golden Retriever, Gordon Setter, Great Dane, Great Pyrenees, Irish Setter, Japanese Chin, Bernese Mountain Dog, Labrador Retriever, Mastiff, Newfoundland, Old English Sheepdog, Weimaraner, Pekingese, Pomeranian, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Pug, Rottweiler, Shar Pei, Shih Tzu, Saint Bernard, Siberian Husky, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Tibetan Spaniel, Vizsla, Yorkshire Terrier, and Clumber Spaniel.
Signs That Your Dog May Have Entropion
The majority of dogs with entropion are identified before they reach their first birthday, with symptoms typically developing early in life. Squinting, excessive crying, and holding the eyes closed are the most typical signs of entropion. Although sometimes flat-faced dogs may not display any overt signs of discomfort.
Treatment for Entropion in Dogs
Without any treatment, entropion in puppies can occasionally improve on its own. Young dogs who are experiencing discomfort from the condition may benefit from 'tacking,' also known as temporary eyelid eversion.
Medical treatments such as antibiotic ointments can be prescribed to reduce corneal damage, but medications will not cure the entropion. Surgery will be required to correct the problem.
Entropion Surgery in Dogs - Blepharoplasty
If entropion continues to be an issue as your puppy reaches their first birthday surgery can be performed, to correct the issue and relieve your pup's discomfort.
Two surgeries may be performed to avoid overcorrection of this condition (which could result in outward rolling of the eyelids), the first being a primary (major) correction and the second being a minor corrective surgery.
Before and after the dog entropion surgery your pup may be prescribed medications such as ophthalmic antibiotics or lubricants to treat conditions resulting from the irritation caused by entropion.
The cost of entropion surgery for dogs varies depending on several factors, but tends to range between $500 - $1800. To find out how much this surgery will cost to correct your pup's eye condition contact your vet for details.
The Prognosis for Dogs with Entropion
Dog entropion surgery recovery is generally very good, and the condition does not return. That said, recurrence is common in Shar Peis due to their excessive folds of skin around the eyes.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.