Dog Corneal Ulcers: Recognition and Treatment

Corneal ulcers are painful eye injuries in dogs that require prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent vision loss and serious complications.

Key Facts

Corneal ulcers occur when the surface layer of the eye is damaged by trauma, infection, dry eye, or abnormal eyelid anatomy
Brachycephalic breeds with prominent eyes — Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, Pugs — are particularly prone to corneal damage
Signs include squinting, excessive tearing, cloudiness of the eye, pawing at the face, and light sensitivity
Fluorescein staining at the veterinary clinic confirms ulcer presence and extent
Treatment ranges from topical antibiotics and pain relief to surgical intervention for deep or non-healing ulcers

Welfare Considerations

Corneal ulcers are intensely painful — the cornea is one of the most nerve-dense tissues in the body. Dogs with untreated ulcers experience constant eye pain and may self-traumatise through face rubbing. Deep ulcers risk corneal perforation and permanent vision loss. Prompt treatment is both a welfare imperative and essential for preserving sight.

What You Can Do

Seek veterinary attention the same day if your dog shows squinting, tearing, or eye cloudiness
Use an Elizabethan collar to prevent your dog from rubbing their eye during treatment
Administer eye drops exactly as prescribed — missed doses slow healing significantly
Have brachycephalic breeds examined regularly for early signs of corneal exposure damage