Dogs with flat faces suffer distinctive eye problems linked to their anatomy. Understanding these conditions helps owners provide appropriate care and make informed choices.
The eye problems caused by extreme brachycephalic conformation result in chronic discomfort and a substantially elevated risk of acute painful crises such as corneal ulceration or eye prolapse. Daily existence for many affected dogs involves subclinical eye irritation that owners may not recognize because the dog has never known anything else. Preventive eye care and selection against extreme conformation are both essential.