What Could Be Causing My Dog To Have Red, Bloodshot Eyes?

Wondering why your dog's eyes are red? Red eye in dogs can result from of allergies, conjunctivitis or a more serious eye problem.

Q: My Boston Terrier, Sushi, has red bloodshot eyes. Why are my dog's eyes red?

A:  If your dog's eyes are red, there are a few main culprits.

Sometimes pet allergies can make your dog's eyes red.

If your dog's eyes have a painless, clear discharge in addition to the redness, it could be a sign of conjunctivitis.

Conjunctivitis is also known as pink eye or red eye and is one of the most common eye problems in dogs. It can be easily diagnosed and treated by your vet. If your dog seems to be in pain, it could be a signal of a more serious eye problem such as an infection.

If you're concerned because you're dog's eyes are red, you're veterinarian might be able to clarify the reasons why, and a visit might be in order in the near future.

Check out more information on EYE AND EAR CARE >>

We also have a video on cleaning your dog's eyes!

Author's profile photo
Dr. Lauren Brickman Dr. Brickman started as a veterinary technician at Garden City Park in 1997 and went on to…

Leave a Comment

Enter your information below or log in to skip these fields.
No account? Sign up here.
* indicates a required field.
(will appear with your comment)
For privacy reasons, do not use your full name or email address.
(will not be published)
For your protection, ensure that no personally identifiable information (like full name or email address) is submitted.

Your Privacy

Trust is a cornerstone of our corporate mission, and the success of our business depends on it. P&G is committed to maintaining your trust by protecting personal information we collect about you, our consumers.

Comments (11)

kirsty

i have a 18 week old staff his eyes are always red and has a green discharge coming from them does anyone have any advice as havnt really got the money for vets at the momont , i dont think hes in any pain thanks

Scared2Death! (Unverified)

I took my dogs for a walk. When we got home I noticed one of them had BLOOD RED eyes (the whites of her eyes) and am TERRIFIED! What is it and what could happen that would make her eyes go blood red in minutes? I'm taking her to the vet but am FREAKING OUT! Anyone out there have answers? =:<

Anonymous (Unverified)

my boston terrier did the same thing and not sure what to do,her eye is running and the white is red.

dog defender (Unverified)

i am fed up about my dog he is just biting and barking and hes not eating his food. any advice on him?

dog detective (Unverified)

my shih tzu had the same thing as soon as i picked him up from the dog groomers. i was so curious as i didn't know what had happened. i took him to the vet and it was just because of stress maybe thats the same situation for you.

Glitter'smama (Unverified)

My Shih Tzu had the exact same thing when she got done with the groomer. I took her to the vet as soon as I noticed it. She checked for a detached cornea, which luckily she did not have. She thought that it may be irritated from the shampoo, also gave me some eye ointment. That was about 36 hours ago an it is only a little better. I will probably take her back tomorrow!

Anonymous (Unverified)

The white part of my Staffy pups eye has turned a redish pinky colour, what could be causing this?