My dog's red third eyelid won't retract, but it's not cherry eye. Why?

Question

My dog has continuously exposed and red nictitating membranes, right side more exposed than the left side. It is not raised or prolapsed like a cherry eye, it just doesn't retract. Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | neutered | 65 lbs

Sara Farmer, DVM · Accepted Answer

It can be normal for the third eyelid to appear red if there is no pigment on it, although Gunner's do look a little inflamed in your picture. If this is something new I would recommend seeing a veterinarian: elevated third eyelids can be a sign of ocular disease or some neurologic diseases. Some dogs always seem to have their third eyelids elevated due to conformation, such as Bloodhounds and Basset hounds.

My dog's red third eyelid won't retract, but it's not cherry eye. Why?

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