10 Reasons Why Are My Dog’s Eyes Watery? (Explained)

Your dog’s eyes are expressive, alert, and emotional—but when they start watering constantly, it can be hard to tell if it’s normal or a sign of trouble. Some watery eyes clear up on their own. Others may point to irritation, allergies, or a health condition that needs attention.

As a dog owner, you’re tuned in to your pet’s behavior. So when their eyes start to leak, tear up excessively, or stain their fur, it’s natural to worry. Constant eye watering, known as epiphora, could mean your dog is trying to deal with dust, pain, or infection—or something more serious.

In this post, we break down 10 common reasons your dog’s eyes are watery, how to recognize the symptoms, and when it’s time to see a vet. The more you know, the faster you can help your dog feel better and stay healthy.

1. Allergies

• Environmental allergies are a top cause of watery eyes in dogs.
• Triggers can include pollen, mold, grass, dust, or perfumed cleaning sprays.
• Dogs may also show itchy skin, sneezing, or rubbing their face against furniture.

2. Blocked Tear Ducts (Epiphora)

• If your dog’s tear ducts are clogged, tears will overflow instead of draining properly.
• You’ll notice constant wetness under the eyes, sometimes with reddish-brown stains.
• Common in flat-faced breeds like Shih Tzus or Bulldogs due to their facial structure.

3. Irritants in the Eye

• Debris like dust, sand, smoke, or even shampoo can cause immediate tearing.
• This reaction helps flush out the irritant and protect the eye.
• If it doesn’t stop in a few hours, it may lead to inflammation or infection.

4. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

• Conjunctivitis causes the eye’s lining to become inflamed and teary.
• Symptoms include watery discharge, redness, and sometimes squinting or swelling.
• It may be viral, bacterial, or allergic, and needs vet-approved treatment.

5. Foreign Object or Injury

• A small grass seed, eyelash, or scratch can trigger excessive tearing.
• Dogs may paw at their eye, blink repeatedly, or hold it half-closed.
• Immediate vet care is best to prevent ulcers or long-term damage.

6. Eye Infections

• Infections from bacteria, viruses, or fungus can make the eyes red, watery, and goopy.
• You may see yellow or green discharge, especially in one eye.
• These cases require prescription drops or ointments to clear the infection safely.

7. Glaucoma

• Glaucoma causes increased pressure in the eye, leading to pain and watering.
• Dogs might have cloudy eyes, bulging appearance, or sensitivity to light.
• This is an emergency. If untreated, it can cause permanent blindness.

8. Eyelid or Eyelash Issues

• Conditions like entropion (inward-rolling eyelids) or ectopic eyelashes irritate the eye.
• Constant rubbing of lashes on the cornea causes watering, redness, and sometimes ulcers.
• These are usually corrected through minor surgery or trimming.

9. Dry Eye (KCS)

• Ironically, Dry Eye can cause watery eyes due to irritation and lack of real lubrication.
• The eye becomes dry, then overproduces poor-quality tears that don’t soothe it.
• Treated with tear stimulants, lubricating gels, or immune-modulating meds.

10. Breed-Specific Traits

• Some breeds like Poodles, Maltese, and Boxers are prone to watery eyes.
• Their facial anatomy, shallow eye sockets, or tight ducts make them more sensitive.
• In these cases, ongoing care may include wiping the eyes regularly and monitoring for changes.

Conclusion

Watery eyes in dogs might seem harmless, but they can signal something deeper. From simple allergies to serious conditions like glaucoma, your dog’s eyes are trying to tell you something. The key is to notice what’s normal for your pet and what’s not.

If the watering is new, persistent, or paired with signs like discharge, redness, or squinting, it’s best to consult a vet. Early action can prevent worsening pain, infection, or vision loss.

Your dog relies on their eyes every day—for play, bonding, and staying safe. Understanding what causes those watery eyes helps you take better care of their comfort, sight, and overall health.

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