Dog Entropion Symptoms and Treatments

Entropion is a medical condition in which the eyelids fold inward. It is very uncomfortable, as the eyelashes would rub against the cornea constantly. Entropion is usually caused by genetic factors and may be congenital. Trachoma infection may cause scarring of the inner eyelid, which may cause entropion.

Some of the common symptoms of dog entropion would include:
1. Redness and pain around the eye
2. Sensitivity to light and wind
3. Sagging skin around the eye
4. Excessive tearing
5. Decreased vision, especially if the cornea is damaged

Entropion in dogs has been documented in many dog breeds, although there are some breeds (particularly purebreds), which are more frequently affected than others. These breeds include the Chow Chow, Shar Pei, St. Bernard, Cocker Spaniel, Boxer, Springer Spaniel, Labrador Retriever, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Bull Mastiff, Great Dane, Irish Setter, and Poodle.

The canine entropion condition is usually presented in puppies by six months of age. Dog entropion can also occur secondary to pain in the eye, scarring of the eyelid, or nerve damage. The upper or lower eyelid can be involved, and one or both eyes may be affected. When dog entropion occurs in both eyes, this is known as "bilateral entropion."

Upper lid entropion involves the eyelashes rubbing on the eye, but the lower lid usually has no eyelashes, so hair rubs on the eye directly. Surgical correction is needed in more severe cases. The skin and orbicularis oculi muscle will be strip and removed parallel to the affected portion of the lid and then the skin is sutured.

Shar Peis, who can be affected from as young as two or three weeks old, respond well to temporary eyelid tacking. Entropion in dogs are usually corrected after three to four weeks, and the sutures would be removed.

Next article: Dog Epiphora Symptoms and Treatments