Eye Health for Dogs: How to Keep Your Canine’s Eyes Healthy

You already know your dog is the cutest—and smartest—companion around. From the way they look at you when you're making dinner to how they communicate with a single tail wag, your dog’s eyes are a big part of their personality and connection with you.

Because your dog uses their eyes to express love, curiosity, and excitement, supporting eye health for dogs is just as important as their coat, joints, or digestion. In this guide, we’ll explore:

• How dog vision works
• Natural ways to support eye health
• Grooming and cleaning tips
• What to watch for when checking your dog’s eyes

How Dogs See the World

Your dog’s eyes work a little differently than yours. While humans tend to see more detail and color, dogs are tuned in to movement and changes in light. Here are a few key facts about dog vision:

• Dogs have larger pupils that help them see better in dim lighting
• Long-nosed dogs tend to have better peripheral vision
• Short-nosed breeds may have an easier time reading human facial expressions
• Dogs have a third eyelid, or nictitating membrane, that helps protect and clean the eye

Even though dogs rely heavily on their sense of smell, their eyes play a key role in helping them interact with the world—and with you.

Pet Safety Tip: Avoid letting your dog ride with their head out the car window. Dust and debris can irritate or injure their eyes at high speeds.

Nutritional Support for Dog Eye Health

Your dog’s diet plays a major role in supporting overall wellness—including their eyes. A balanced, high-quality diet provides the nutrients dogs need for normal eye function. Here are a few natural ingredients that can help:

• Blueberries – Packed with antioxidants and low in calories. Cut in half for smaller breeds.
• Cooked sweet potatoes – Rich in beta-carotene, a nutrient that helps support eye health.
• Eggs – A source of lutein and sulfur-containing compounds like cysteine.
• Broccoli and kale – Full of eye-friendly antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin (serve cooked and pureed for easier digestion).
• Cooked fish – Salmon, sardines, and anchovies offer essential fatty acids to support wellness.

Some pet supplements made with natural ingredients may also include antioxidants and functional herbs that support eye wellness—ask your vet if they’re right for your dog.

Grooming Tips to Keep Your Dog's Eyes Clear

Regular grooming and gentle cleaning can help reduce the buildup of dirt or debris around the eyes. Try these easy at-home practices:

• Use a damp cotton ball to gently wipe away discharge, starting at the corner of the eye and moving outward
• Avoid touching the eyeball directly
• Trim long hair around your dog’s eyes using round-tip scissors (this is best as a two-person job!)
• Keep your dog’s face clean, especially if they’re prone to eye goop or tear staining

If discharge or irritation persists, contact your veterinarian to rule out any underlying issues.

When to Talk to Your Vet About Eye Concerns

A big part of supporting long-term eye health for dogs is paying attention to subtle changes. During your dog’s routine veterinary checkups, your vet will examine their eyes and monitor for early signs of potential problems.

At home, here’s what to watch for:

• One pupil larger than the other
• Cloudy, red, or yellow-tinted eyes
• Excessive discharge or crusting
• Squinting, blinking, or eye rubbing
• Swelling or visible third eyelid
• Pink or red tissue inside the lower eyelid (healthy tissue should be light pink)

If you notice any of these signs, call your vet. Early intervention can make a big difference in protecting your pet’s comfort and vision.

Proactive Eye Health Care for Dogs

Your dog’s eyes do more than see—they connect with you on a deep, emotional level. From nutrition and grooming to regular check-ins with your vet, there are many proactive ways to support your dog’s eye health.

As always, consult your veterinarian before adding new supplements to your dog’s routine. For extra support, explore natural options that promote overall wellness and balance—because healthy eyes are part of a healthy, happy pup.