Entropion and ectropion are eyelid abnormalities common in certain dog breeds that cause chronic discomfort, eye damage, and reduced quality of life if untreated.
Dogs with uncorrected entropion experience constant pain from eyelashes rubbing against the cornea, equivalent to a persistent foreign body sensation that humans find intensely distressing. Many dogs suffer for years before owners recognize the subtle signs of ocular discomfort including squinting and pawing at the face. The conditions can cause permanent vision loss if not treated promptly. Breed standards that perpetuate exaggerated features causing these conditions represent a systemic welfare concern. Ethical breeding practices avoiding extreme conformations can prevent these conditions from arising.